Trouble Chasin’, the dynamic duo consisting of Chase Baby and Sandman Slimm, is more than just a collaboration — it’s a statement, an evolution, and a testament to the power of authentic artistry. Combining their individual talents and influences, the pair have forged a musical path that challenges norms and resonates deeply with their audience. Through their work as a group, they’ve created a sound that’s as unique as it is powerful, blending their styles seamlessly to produce music that stands out in the local and broader music scenes. Soon fans will get a new taste of their solo projects as well.
The story of Trouble Chasin’ begins with a shared vision and a serendipitous opportunity. “We had a couple of records under our belts collaboratively already at the point where we decided to turn things into a duo,” Chase Baby recalls. The turning point came when they were booked for the Summer Camp Music Festival after winning the Scamp OTR Tour battle. Faced with back-to-back set times, they realized they could combine their talents, eliminate turnover time, and deliver a more powerful, cohesive performance. “It has become less of a side project and more a personal priority,” Chase Baby notes, describing Trouble Chasin’ as his “musical rage room.”
Sandman Slimm reflects on their evolution, emphasizing how their different strengths have fused over time to create a unique sound. “Each project we’ve created has gotten better and more polished, and that’s still the same with the next effort,” he says. This constant improvement and adaptation is evident in their music, which seamlessly blends their individual styles and influences.
Both artists bring a rich tapestry of influences to their work. Chase Baby’s inspirations range from Twista and Tupac to Outkast and A Tribe Called Quest. He sees himself as part of a tradition of “boundary pushers” in hip-hop — artists who came out with a clear purpose and identity. Sandman Slimm, on the other hand, has been shaped by the likes of Kanye West, Kid Cudi, and T.I., but he’s also drawn to the detailed, melody-driven work of artists like Tame Impala and Anderson .Paak. “It’s broadened my spectrum of musical ability,” he says, highlighting how these influences have expanded his creative horizons.
When it comes to their solo projects, both artists explore different facets of their personalities and experiences. Chase Baby delves into his struggles and emotions with raw honesty. “My solo music is always really intense and borderline uncomfortable to listen to if you’re someone that really knows me,” he admits. Sandman Slimm, meanwhile, approaches his solo projects with a cinematic flair. His upcoming album, a sequel to his 2021 project FREE BASS, is described as a high-energy, 808-heavy recollection of chaotic periods in his life, presented as if it were a film. This thematic depth and narrative style are a testament to his ability to craft stories that resonate on multiple levels.
Despite their individual pursuits, Trouble Chasin’ remains a vital outlet for both artists. Balancing solo projects with their work as a duo is a challenge, but one they navigate with ease. For Chase Baby, it’s about working at his own pace and focusing on quality over quantity. “I’m not missing as much these days, and I’m planning my projects out much more intentionally,” he explains. Sandman Slimm finds the process less pressurized when working on Trouble Chasin’ records, allowing him to have more fun and stay in the moment.
Their upcoming album promises to be a return to the high-energy sound that first put them on the map. “It’s an audio representation of the mania experienced between 2 and 6 a.m. on any given evening in any given town, but C-U most specifically,” Chase Baby says, hinting at the album’s chaotic yet controlled vibe. Sandman Slimm adds that the project will have a classic mixtape feel but with a fun, late-night energy that’s perfect for a night out with friends.
Navigating the music scene in Champaign-Urbana has not been without its challenges, particularly for a hip-hop group. Booking hip-hop acts is often met with resistance, rooted in what Chase Baby describes as “a racially rooted apprehension” from venues that prefer to stick with familiar, safe options. “Outside of The Canopy Club and Gallery Art Bar, we’ve experienced all sorts of headaches at most venues,” he says, pointing out the double standards in how different genres are treated. Sandman Slimm echoes these sentiments, noting the difficulty in building a loyal following in a town with so many hip-hop artists. “Every time we perform out of town, it’s almost like we shock people,” he says, reflecting on the surprise they often encounter from new audiences who wonder why they’re not more widely recognized.
But despite these obstacles, Trouble Chasin’ has found ways to incorporate their personalities into their music, creating something that is undeniably their own. “I’m unapologetically myself 100% of the time,” says Chase Baby, while Sandman Slimm adds that he channels his wild and crazy side into the music, resulting in a synergy that drives their creative process.
Memorable performances have played a significant role in shaping their career trajectory. Opening for Ludacris at the State Farm Center was a dream come true for both artists. “It was almost pre-destined,” Chase Baby says, recalling how they had fantasized about performing there even before they were booked. The experience reinforced their belief that they’re on the right path, doing exactly what they need to be doing. Sandman Slimm describes the moment as surreal, a milestone that reminded them of how far they’ve come and how much further they can go.
The local community plays a vital role in their music, providing the foundation upon which they’ve built their careers. “Without a local scene, we don’t have the local venues which provide us a space to cut our teeth,” says Chase Baby. Sandman Slimm shares this sentiment, expressing deep gratitude for the support they’ve received from their community. “Everything we’ve been able to do and will be able to do moving forward is a direct result of the community we come from,” he says.
As Trouble Chasin’ continues to evolve, they remain focused on staying true to themselves while navigating the complexities of the music industry. “By staying as far away as I can from the music industry,” says Chase Baby, is how he maintains his creative integrity. For Sandman Slimm, it’s about remembering why he started making music in the first place — as an outlet for his thoughts and feelings. Together, they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, creating music that is both authentic and innovative, with a sound that is uniquely their own.
Trouble Chasin’ is more than just a hip-hop duo. They are a reflection of the struggles and triumphs of independent artists everywhere. With their unwavering commitment to their craft and their community, Chase Baby and Sandman Slimm are proof that great music knows no boundaries, and that sometimes, the best collaborations are born out of the most unexpected circumstances.
Look for a new album from this amazing duo later in 2024.
Learn more about Trouble Chasin’ on their Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, Spotify, or their official web site. You can also access additional media content by Trouble Chasin’ via their Linktree.
Trouble Chasin’ at University of Illinois Late Nighter (for U of I students)
Ilini Union
1401 W Green St
Urbana
F Aug 23rd, 8 p.m.
Free for U of I students