Record Head explores the psychology and culture of record collectors, DJs, producers, and music preservationists. What makes a collector a collector? Why do we dedicate so much of our time to digging through records, searching for rare and forgotten music, and sharing our discoveries with the world? What drives the obsession, and what keeps us coming back for more?
For our first episode, we sit down with the iconic House Shoes—Detroit-born DJ, producer, label founder, and one of the most influential tastemakers in underground hip-hop.
Throughout his career, Shoes has played an important role in exposing listeners to new artists, overlooked talent, and both classic and lesser-known records. His influence extends far beyond the turntables, helping shape the sound and culture of Detroit hip-hop while connecting music and artists across generations.
As a producer, Shoes has worked with an impressive roster of artists, including Phat Kat, Proof, Elzhi, Pumpkinhead, Marv Won, J Dilla, Danny Brown, and Quelle Chris, among others. He was a resident DJ at Detroit's legendary St. Andrew's Hall from 1994 to 2004. He toured extensively throughout the U.S. and Europe alongside artists such as Guilty Simpson, Illa J, Exile, Aloe Blacc, Percee P, Slum Village, and Elzhi.
In 2013, Shoes founded Street Corner Music, an independent hip-hop label that released 82 records over its ten-year run, featuring artists and projects including D.R.U.G.S. Beats, Stro Elliot, and Mach-Hommy.
A three-time Detroit Music Award winner for Outstanding Hip-Hop DJ, House Shoes has built a career rooted in discovery, preservation, and a deep appreciation for the music.
In this conversation, we get into the mind of the collector: the obsession, the hunt, the discoveries, and the importance of keeping music alive.
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Welcome to Record Head.
Record Head explores the psychology and culture of record collectors, DJs, producers, and music preservationists. What makes a collector a collector? Why do we dedicate so much of our time to digging through records, searching for rare and forgotten music, and sharing our discoveries with the world? What drives the obsession, and what keeps us coming back for more?
For our first episode, we sit down with the iconic House Shoes—Detroit-born DJ, producer, label founder, and one of the most influential tastemakers in underground hip-hop.