Fete Lifestyle Magazine May 2026 - Women's Issue | Page 78

THE

DJ PHOTOSERIES

FEATURING

MARK FARINA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN

Music Tells a Story

ith a last-minute

photoshoot

opportunity from

my friend Jerry Walker @jdubfromchicago, I got full access to the DJ booth at Sound Bar in Chicago to photograph Mark Farina @djmarkfarina, playing the 1:30AM slot.

A Chicago native and House legend, Mark is known for a lot of things - Mushroom Jazz and his long-time relationship with Om Records. He’s well respected as a DJ’s DJ. With roots at Medusa’s Smart Bar and Gramophone Records, Farina is the real thing.

Story has it that Mark was mentored by Derrick Carter (a Chicago Legend) and has used his lessons well. Now after decades in the business of producing, recording, and playing, his reputation and licks are impeccable.

I was in the booth for less than an hour and absorbed his subtle but connected handle on his beats and the flows of the dance floor. I look forward to making a portrait that captures his magic and old soul. Farina is a gift and easy to be with.

W