About the Collective
Darker Than Blue is an emerging DJ collective based in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois consisting of: Joe “E^squared” Blanks, Kamau “KamauMau” Grantham, Chris “CK” Kinson, and Stacey “BLACKSTAR” Robinson. Our Collective formed in October 2023 and originally included Manuella “Soleil Roz” Lusambo who moved from the area in December 2023. We welcomed our latest addition, Warren “Mixzn” Smith, in April 2024. Our crew spins a wide range of music to create peaceful dance environments for all to enjoy. Come chill, build, and be prepared to dance. All of our events are FREE and open to the public.
About Joe “E^squared” Blanks
I’m Cali bred, Cali fed via the Bay and hometown Fresno. I started producing house, electronic, rap, and R&B with FL Studio in 2003 in San Diego, CA. Arrived to NY in 2008 where I began to spin music in 2011 and have been spinning ever since for various events, celebrations, weddings, clubs, venues, and more. E^squared, aka Evolving Exponentially, comes from the idea that being present in the moment and seeking experiences promotes growth. This is reflected through my dj sets and mixes where the tempo, genre, and energy evolves as I showcase my rhythm and beat transitions between songs. Mainly spinning deep, funky, and soulful house, my collection of mixes on several social media platforms spans genres and energies. I continue to provide a library of mixes tapping into the energies and setting vibes for audiences around the world. Add me to your Equation.
About Kamau “KamauMau” Grantham
I first learned how to DJ in 1988, while in college in upstate NY. I play music that I find funky in hopes that others may also be moved in the same way. For me good music knows no boundaries and has no expiration date, so in my DJ sets you might hear disco, jazz funk, house, Afro house, and world beats, just to name a few. Folks may or may not be familiar with some of the music that I play, but I hope they approach my DJ sets with an open mind.
About Christopher “CK” Kinson
I think of myself as a builder when I’m djing. I spin music of the African Diaspora that spans the globe fastening the aesthetically unsafe to the safe. My musical inclinations are immediately recognized as Black music from the past, contemporary pop, and futuristic sonics. I love crafting unique blends and mixes for everyone - dancers, drinkers, and listeners - to enjoy.
About Stacey “BLACKSTAR” Robinson
As with many aspiring DJs, I began by spinin’ beats and blending songs in my head. Actually for the past 30+ years. I’m finally manifesting that long deferred dream combining DJing with motion based graphics and time lapse videos. Among my sonic obsessions is collecting vinyl records. I spin Golden Age Hip-Hop, mixing them with their original samples to imagine what the AfroFuture sounds like through a multimedia Sankofa practice. I look forward to sharing more DJ mixes and animations with you.
About Warren “Mixzn” Smith
Growing up with a former DJ as a father, I’ve been exposed to a diverse collection of music genres since childhood. This allows me to curate a blend of timeless classics and current hits. My mission is to have multiple generations on the dance floor by seamlessly mixing different eras of music to create a vibe and an unforgettable dance experience.