James Amato - Memo Boat Party - Sep 2006

Biography of James Amato

James Amato’s grass roots approach to the music industry has kept him balancing roles of DJ, promoter, producer, and venue owner for more than 8 years. From hosting his first one-off event in 1999 to securing his position as Director of Music and Bookings at Chicago’s historically influential SmartBar, James has become one of the most widely recognized names on the Midwest electronic music scene. In 2006, he established his industry presence further by launching Neighborhood House Watch, a new label that showcases similar-influenced house tracks.

James grew up in Milwaukee, Wis., and was introduced to electronic music through the Midwest rave scene in the early 1990’s. In 1999, he began working at Revolutions Records and joined forces with local electronic music innovator Steven Kaye in hosting Bassment at Rave/Eagles club. James’ exposure landed him the position of Saturday Night Music Director at Milwaukee’s Pure nightclub. At the time, Pure stood as the city’s premiere underground music venue, boasting a six-figure sound system and sprawling capacity. As a promoter and resident, his global bookings and promotional tactics filled the floor every week.

In 2004, James invested back into the industry by becoming co-owner and director of music and bookings at Milwaukee’s Mantra Lounge. Here he launched Kamasutra, a Friday event that would go on to become Milwaukee’s top underground electronic music night for three years. As its promoter, James booked a versatile roster of electronic talent that defied genre boarders. The consistent success of the night put the city’s club scene on the national radar, as it garnered press attention from publications including URB and Nightclub/Bar Magazine. James’ success with night earned him runner-up for the “Best Promoter” in the U.S. by URB magazine, along with several pictorial Kamasutra spreads throughout 2005. Locally, James earned several press accolades, including “Best Club DJ” in Milwaukee’s 2005 Shepherd Express readers’ poll.

In September 2006, James relocated to Chicago to become the new Director of Music and Bookings at Chicago’s SmartBar, a historic venue with a 25-year tradition of showcasing electronic talent. Under the guidance of owner Joe Shanahan James continues broaden his scope as a promoter and bookings director.

James’ move to Chicago also saw him launch his vinyl and digital house label Neighborhood House Watch (NHW), which features tracks defined by their funky, Chicago-shuffle style. Its name pays homage to the colleagues that continue to look out for the best interests of underground house community. The label’s first two releases are steeped in the chunky vein of Chicago style house. “Chicago Soul” (NHW-001), is d-t3ch’s answer to big bass while Jason Hodges lends his remixing skills to the b-side. Production duo No Assembly Firm also lends their hands to NHW’s remix releases.

Most recently, James has teamed up with production partner Nate Bowen to release the second EP on the NHW, “Square One EP” (NHW-002) Their production fluidity has led to collaborative releases on Wally Callerio’s Dufflebag Recordings and the Milwaukee-based Red Brunette Music Group. Additionally, James has partner production powers with Sombionx (Q Studios) and Nique (Nine Records). The result is blend of funk-infused house tracks reminiscent of Chicago’s past while evolving in the future direction of New School House. James’ balance of bass, bump and organic rhythms create peak-hour tracks that fill dance floors.

James’ move to Chicago sees this 28-year-old nightlife guru reaching new plateaus of success in his promotional and production career. He continues to push the limits and raise the industry standard of the Midwest electronic music scene.