Minji, AKA beatsbyminji on social media, played her first official show with a full band at Chicago venue Schubas Tavern - which is known for hosting both local artists and major tours.

Originally from Acton, MA, now Chicago-local Minji grew up playing classical piano, but was inspired by hip-hop music like Kanye, and indie artist Gus Dapperton to start self-producing and writing. Minji combines these elements to create the vibe that is beatsbyminji. 

For the last six months Minji has been performing her music with current guitarist/keyboardist Drew Bunge, prior to assembling the band. Now, she’s built the self-titled  band Minji, made up of both Minji and Drew, as well as bassist/vocalist Andie and drummer Rafe Dibiase.

The band opened the Cruel Babes bill at the tavern, which was a collective of local Chicago artists. Minji played a mix of released and unreleased original songs, as well as a cover of “Right On The Side Of My Neck” by Faye Webster. The vibe the band set was extremely warm, leaning more into the bedroom pop genre, the band provided an ease into the “harder” music of the night - the summery vibe of the music made you forget it was raining outside.

The two released songs on the setlist, “ice cream days” and “so in love” can be streamed anywhere you listen to music - additionally, the music video for “ice cream days” is available to watch on YouTube! 

There’s a lot to look forward to this year for Minji, both songs mentioned will be on the tracklist for an upcoming EP, and Chicago music lovers will be able to catch the band at more gigs throughout the year - additionally, Minji looks forward to seeing more Asian-American/female representation in the Chicago music scene.

Article and Photo Gallery by Mollie Menuck