Alvin Uy was the DJ for a high school dance as he was knew all the top current hits to play. Thereafter, random students would see him and simply say, "You're the DJ."
And he still is.
"I'd like to say I have an ear for playing tracks that are unique and provocative and will be received well by the audience," Uy said. "I've also become better at feeling the energy of the crowd and playing tracks accordingly."
Uy grew up playing the piano and a few other instruments, "so music was a big part of my life," he said. "As I got older and went to various parties, I was always in awe at how a DJ could make or break a party. I felt I had the ear to play the great music needed to keep a party energized, so I saved money, bought equipment, and began looking for gigs."
When not in the DJ booth or bartending in Boystown, Uy also is studying in nursing school.
In the DJ booth, Alvin the Funkmunk long pushes house music. "My style is funky and soulful," he said. "I find satisfaction as a DJ when I look at the crowd and see people of all backgrounds having fun and dancing while feeling the same feel good energy that I feel."
Alvin the Funkmunk was a DJ at PrideFest. "Feeling the intensity of the bass from all the subwoofers and speakers on stage was incredible. I wish I had the same sound system to play on all the time," he said.
Uy said some of his DJ idols/role-models include Ralphi Rosario, Derrick Carter, and Michael Serafini. "I love the energy that they put out every time they spin. You always feel the love in all their sets," he said.
Uy added, "I don't take myself too seriously. I'm all about sharing positive energy and hoping that it makes other people feel better."
THE STATS
- Age, 29
- Job title, Bartender at Progress Bar
- Background, Grew up in Naperville, now lives in Lake View
- Most recent concert, Spring Awakening 2017
- First concert, Rock the Bells Hip Hop Tour in 2008 at First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre
- DJ name, Alvin the Funkmunk
- DJ background, Since high school in 2004