We had the good fortune of connecting with Jonathan Schang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jonathan, what do you attribute your success to?
I think the most important factor in District 97’s success is staying true to our artistic vision by writing and playing the music that lights a fire under us. The audience responds to that authenticity more so than a calculated approach based on what we think they may want to hear.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My aim is to forge a catalog of music that can be enjoyed well into the future, and I’m quite proud of the body of work District 97 has created over the last 14 years. We’ve strived to ensure every note we release to public is the very best of which we’re capable. Most satisfying of all, we manage to continuously up our game with every release – our most recent album Stay for the Ending is widely considered our crowning achievement to date. I think the refusal to rest on our laurels has defined our journey, both artistically and professionally.

As for lessons, I’d advise any aspiring creative to be prepared for rejection and disappointment in copious amounts. But if you’re tenacious and have something special to offer, you will find an audience and the victories will be all the sweeter.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Chicago has a thriving music scene, so depending on who’s performing, I’d take them to The Green Mill, Jazz Showcase, Reggie’s, Martyrs’, or Chicago Theater (among others!). Or, perhaps catch Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Lyric Opera, or Hubbard Street Dance. Art Institute, Museum of Contemporary Art, or catching a flick at Music Box Theater are always sure to inspire. And for anyone new to Chicago, a slice of deep dish pizza at Giordano’s is mandatory!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Obviously District 97’s success is only possible due to the immense talents and dedication of my bandmates, past and present. I’d also like to thank Chicago’s rich dance community, who’ve taken me under their wing and collaborated with me as an accompanist and composer/performer for nearly two decades.

In my formative years, my father was instrumental in introducing me to so much of the music that would weave the tapestry of my life. My mom and stepdad have also been invaluable from everything to selling merch to accounting assistance.

Last but certainly not least, District 97’s wonderfully passionate and supportive fan base have gone so far above and beyond anything I could ever wish for. We truly could not do the majority of what we do without them.

Website: https://district97.net/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/district.97

Twitter: https://x.com/district97

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/District97/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1Qv7ky7YE5WCgg2wZ9rs8w

Other: Inside the Vault Club (exclusive audio, video, and physical releases): https://district97.net/insidethevaultclub

Image Credits
Jennifer Knuth, Giovanni Cionci, Robert Zant

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