Hey Champ

I'm a huge fan of Hey Champ. After I heard "Cold Dust Girl" I immediately thought these cats must be from Australia or somewhere burgeoning with glossy, electro-pop talent. Or Illinois. That's right, these fellas hail from the Windy City. Like many acts nowadays, Hey Champ was discovered by posting a music video on YouTube (see above). Shortly thereafter, none other than Chi-town native Lupe Fiasco had them touring with him and signed them to his label. Gotta love the internet....

"Cold Dust Girl" is their gem, and I absolutely love it. It's got a Cut Copy/Phoenix feel to it that is impossible not to like. Also included is a more DJ-friendly remix by 80Kidz. For me, it's a tough call which I like better, but I'm guessing most people will enjoy the original more.

Hey Champ - Cold Dust Girl (MP3) - Click to Stream

Hey Champ - Cold Dust Girl (80Kidz Remix) (MP3) - Click to Stream

Finally, I was first turned on to Hey Champ this summer by their remix of French Horn Rebellion's "Beaches and Friends." It is the perfect summer jam - laid-back and fun. A great tune for hot summer pool parties, at least until the floating beer pong game turns into a raucous game of "survivor cup."

French Horn Rebellion - Beaches and Friends (Hey Champ Remix) (MP3) Click to Stream