Carrying the Torch: The Chopstars and the Evolution of Chopped and Screwed Music

PREMIUMGOODS PRESENTS:
SCREW MUSIC LEGACY LIVES ON FEATURING THE CHOPSTARS

The Chopstars, also known as the Chopstar DJs, are a renowned DJ collective from Houston, Texas, celebrated for their signature style of remixing called "Chopped Up Not Slopped Up." This style is a refined take on the classic "chopped and screwed" technique pioneered by the late DJ Screw in the early 1990s. DJ Screw's method involved slowing down the tempo of hip-hop tracks and adding techniques like record scratching, beat skipping, and repeated phrasing to create a distinct, laid-back sound. The Chopstars have carried this legacy forward while putting their unique spin on it.

Founded by DJ OG Ron C and co-founder DJ Lil Steve, Houston legends with deep roots in the Southern hip-hop scene, the Chopstars have grown into an influential force. OG Ron C is not only a DJ but also a producer and a pivotal figure in the promotion of Southern rap music. He was instrumental in bringing the chopped and screwed style to a broader audience. Along with his team—Candlestick, Hollygrove, and Slim K—he has helped modernize the chopped and screwed technique, making it accessible to new generations of listeners. This evolution emphasizes the importance of keeping the genre alive, as previous hip-hop culture was commonly gatekept.

Working with a wide range of artists, both mainstream and underground, the Chopstars have spread the chopped and screwed sound beyond Houston. They've collaborated with big names like Drake, Beyoncé, and Brent Faiyaz, remixing albums and tracks to give them the signature "Chopped Up Not Slopped Up" treatment. These collaborations have introduced the style to a broader audience and solidified their reputation in the music industry. People are now more receptive to embracing chopped and screwed music that didn't directly come from DJ Screw himself.

The "Chopped Up Not Slopped Up" style represents a bridge between the origins of chopped and screwed music and its future. By respecting the foundational techniques of DJ Screw while bringing their own innovation and precision to the genre, the Chopstars have carved out a unique niche in the world of hip-hop while keeping the style alive. DJ Dakster, the GM of the Chopstars, emphasized, "Everybody can chop and screw, everybody knows the basics, but it's the style that has allowed us to become very innovative."

The Chopstars are dedicated to continuously educating the youth by creating workshops, thus ensuring the longevity of the chopped and screwed tradition. Candlestick expressed his vision, saying, "I would love to develop a curriculum for music history, maybe even with 20 different DJ stations emphasizing Black males and minorities." Their dedication to quality and their ability to adapt to modern trends ensure that the chopped and screwed tradition will continue to thrive for years to come.

Gratitude plays a significant role in their mission. The Chopstars are committed to keeping the legacy of "Chopped Up Not Slopped Up" alive and continue to do what they can for the culture. This includes their involvement in charity work and having a dedicated day in Houston on July 1st. Candlestick summed it up perfectly: "Whoever walks in the room, I need to be able to make them dance." Their efforts to preserve and innovate this genre are a testament to their love for the music and the community they serve.