Sherm & Halil Sensei Are “Toxic”
Chicago’s most buzzworthy house artist Sherm is on a meteoric trajectory, recently capping off 2023 with features in Forbes along with a direct support slot for Zedd’s NYE party at Navy Pier. The momentum isn’t slowing down, as Sherm is excited to reveal that not only will he be performing at Chicago’s esteemed North Coast Festival for his fifth year in a row, but he also is teaming up with Halil Sensei for their thumping tech house anthem, “Toxic,” out today via Hood Politics Records.
“Toxic” epitomizes Sherm and Halil Sensei’s expertise with sound design and vocal sampling within the electronic music spectrum. The track is marked by a pulsating bass line, compelling vocals, rumbling beats and swaying synths, overall creating an enchanting experience. “Toxic” establishes undeniable energy that positions it as a peak-time track guaranteed to ignite any crowd.
“Halil Sensei and I are from completely different parts of the world but that didn’t stop us from going above and beyond to make something special. Halil has been making big waves since his first single “The Underground” on Hood Poli last year and I knew that a collab would happen one day. We fused my style of Chicago inspired tech house with Sensei’s melodic leads and lyrics and turned out to be the perfect recipe for the sound of Hood Politics Records. I’m truly obsessed with this track and we’re so stoked to finally let the world feel the raw power that it possesses.” – Sherm
“Toxic” is definitely the most important track in my career. When we started working on this track, I truly felt that something amazing would come out of it. Since collaborating with Hood Politics, a lot has changed in my career. This song we did with Sherm will leave a huge impact on the listeners. I really believe in this track.” – Halil Sensei
“Toxic” marks the continuation of Sherm’s flourishing success, coinciding with his current ‘Toxic’ tour where he has provided direct support for Imanbek, San Pacho, and will conclude with a grand finale alongside Steve Aoki in Atlanta on March 16. Recognizing his remarkable influence, DJ Mag included him as one of their “8 Emerging Artists for December” while elite electronic music tastemaker Beatportal listed Sherm as one of six emerging artists “on their radar.” Additionally, he hosted the “Tech/House Boom in the US: What’s In It for You?” panel at the largest global music industry gathering, ADE.
Throughout his career thus far, it’s clear that Sherm has created an unshakeable presence both in Chicago and beyond. He’s built one of the largest electronic music podcasts from the ground up – Sherm In The Booth – and his versatile talents both DJing and as an artist have earned him prestigious bookings including Lollapalloza’s afterparty with Acraze, Volleywood, and direct support for Armin Van Buuren, Galantis, and plenty more.