Born and raised in Detroit, Strick grew up on a solid musical diet of Motown and P-funk, elements of which still form the essence of his deep and soulful sound. A prolific DJ in 1980’s Detroit, Strick was heavily influenced by nightspots such as the Music Institute, a club that played a formative role in honing his unique and varied musical outlook. Amongst those whom Strick mentored early on was
his cousin, Alexander ‘Omar’ Smith, better known among house heads as FXHE boss, Omar S. As the 90’s arrived, Strick took a temporary step back from music to raise his family, even though the appeal of music was never far from his mind. And so it was that in 2008, Omar encouraged Strick to return to the production game. It proved to be an inspiring call, as Strick’s comeback, the stunning 7 Days EP, quickly brought him to global prominence among discerning house music fans and in-the-know DJs alike. The release proved the catalyst for many more great Strick moments (including his debut album, 100% Hustler) as well as his own much-respected outlet, 7 Days Ent. Originally conceived for Strick’s solo output, in recent times 7 Days Ent has incorporated the work of other artists such as Strick’s longtime friend and musical ally, ‘Reckless’ Ron Cook and equally excitingly, Strick’s son, Tre Strickland AKA Generation Next. A multitalented producer in his own right, Generation Next collaborated with Strick on 2013’s ‘Like Father / Like Son’ EP, a stunning three-track affair that offered a tantalising insight into a unique musical relationship.
2017 looks set to be a busy year for both Tre and Strick, with a number of 7 Days Ent releases in the pipeline as well as a planned European tour. Although it’s something of a worn-out cliche, Detroit’s modern-day electronic music scene would be nothing without the innovators of the 1980s; innovators who continue to push the scene forward and inspire a new generation of fiercely talented hometown individuals. And that’s surely something that both Big Strick and Generation Next can agree on.
