Today we’d like to introduce you to Chuck Orozco
Chuck, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Chuck started ripping on the drums as a teenager in Hoboken, New Jersey the home of Frank Sinatra. Of course being from Jersey City, New Jersey (Oi that’s a lot of JERSEY) was a big influence on his playing. In the beginning his biggest influences were Mitch Mitchell of Jimi Hendrix and John Bonham of Led Zeppelin. After playing in alternative bands and metal bands himself he went to go see a 4 hour Parliament-Funkadelic show at Studio 54 in NYC. This changed his playing and then began to play tons of funk, listening to Sly Stone, The Meters, James Brown, Chaka Khan, Prince, Rick James and started his focus on playing funk. Later jazz pervaded his life including artists such as Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and John Coltrane.
Not only his surroundings but his environment was also a big influence on him and his musical tastes, playing in many different stylistic bands throughout the years of living in the New York metropolitan area playing venues including- Webster Hall, The Bowery Ball Room, The world famous CBGB’s, Maxwell’s (Hoboken), The Speak Easy and Kenny’s Castaways in Greenwich Village.
After performing with the Pendulum Theatre Company at the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland for a little over a month long show, composing and performing music, he moved to the Los Angeles Metro area, played in original and cover bands, then decided to form the group he now plays with Missus Jones and resides in Big Bear Lake, CA. “My many influences have enabled me to play in the Missus Jones/Winehouse project. Being versatile is a must in this band. That and how to make a good Manhattan.”
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Finding our Amy has not always been an easy task as there have been several Missus Jones’ that fronted the band. Our current singer, Alana, has been with us now for over 5 years. My job as the band leader the job is a difficult one. As everyone ALWAYS says, “it’s like herding cats” which is really true! But, I know my position, the responsibility it carries and I will never complain about it. I feel so blessed with her fronting the band. Whenever I send an email out for a new gig, she is always the first person to get back to me. She is such a fun and lively girl filled with so much talent and passion. She works so hard, pays so much attention to the details of Amy’s voice and really sounds just like her.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Chuck Orozco: Emmy-Winning Sound Engineer, Touring Professional, and DJ Extraordinaire
Chuck Orozco has spent a lifetime mastering the art and science of music and sound. From his days as a touring professional working alongside some of the biggest names in music to earning an Emmy for his work on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Chuck has built a career defined by versatility, innovation, and a relentless dedication to the pursuit of excellence.
From Touring to Television: A Multifaceted Career
Chuck’s journey began in the world of live performance. As a tour manager and audio engineer he contributed to the success of world-class tours, working with artists such as Jennifer Hudson, Robin Thicke, Kid Rock, and the Brian Setzer Orchestra and many more. He was part of iconic global tours, including Ozzfest, The Warped Tour to name a few, where he honed his skills in managing large-scale productions and adapting to the demands of international audiences.
Transitioning from touring to television:
Chuck became a sought-after sound engineer, contributing to some of the biggest shows in entertainment history. His Emmy win for sound mixing on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2019 is a testament to his ability to elevate any production he works on. Other notable credits include Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Late Late Show with James Corden, American Idol, The Grammy Awards and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, one of the longest-running programs in television history. These roles solidified Chuck with top tier broadcast experience in live sound mixing.
A Pioneer in Event Production
In addition to his work in television and touring, Chuck founded Exclusive Music Events, a company dedicated to producing unforgettable live music experiences. Through this endeavor, he brings together his extensive knowledge of sound engineering, event management, and live performance to curate exceptional events for corporate and private clients.
Reinventing Himself as DJ Lucky Chucky
Never content to rest on his laurels, Chuck is also building a name for himself as DJ Lucky Chucky. His open format sets are a vibrant mix of styles and eras, crafted to create memorable moments on the dance floor. Wherever the performance, Chuck’s DJ persona showcases his deep love for music and his ability to connect with audiences in a uniquely personal way.
Leaving an Indelible Legacy
Chuck Orozco’s career is a testament to his passion, adaptability, and mastery across multiple disciplines in the music and entertainment industries. From his Emmy-winning achievements in television to his work behind the scenes of legendary tours, events and musical performance, Chuck’s impact resonates far beyond the soundboard. Today, he continues to inspire, entertain, and innovate, proving that music is not just his career—it’s his lifelong passion.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Luck: A Guiding Force in My Journey
Reflecting on my life and career, I feel incredibly fortunate for the profound moments of good luck that have shaped my path. One of the most pivotal was finding my amazing singer, Alana. Her talent and presence have elevated Missus Jones’ (Insert Link: www.missusjones.com) performances to the most unexpected highs and brought unparalleled energy to the band. Every member of my band is an extraordinary musician, and I’m endlessly grateful to work alongside such an outstanding group of artists. We all hold hands, pray and give thanks before every show. Together, they make every performance a deeply rewarding experience.
Beyond my band, I attribute much of my success with a life filled with remarkable mentors, colleagues and friends. I’ve been privileged to learn from outstanding individuals and draw inspiration from their guidance. I believe there are 3 types of friends, 1- whom we help uplift, inspire, and give guidance, 2- ones that are on our level, and 3 our mentors, those who are doing greater things than us who we seek advice and look up to. Two organizations in particular, have been transformative for me: METAL (Media Entertainment Technology Artists and Leaders) and the Sterling Institute of Relationship. These men’s groups have been prolific strokes of luck in my life. They’ve given me the opportunity to form deep, meaningful relationships, develop lifelong friendships, gain profound insights, and build unbreakable bonds. I am profoundly grateful to be a part of these institutions, which have enriched both my personal and professional life.
Finding Gratefulness in Every Moment
Luck isn’t just about the good—it’s about perspective. An anecdote that encapsulates my outlook is finding gratitude in every moment, whether during the good times or when facing challenges, finding the learning. This mindset has been instrumental in navigating the highs and lows of my journey. It reminds me to embrace every experience as an opportunity for growth and connection, allowing me to turn even the most challenging situations into lessons and triumphs.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.missusjones.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missus_jones/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissusJones/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_oYXavEpAF4QEouJz0NTYQ
- Soundcloud: https://djluckychucky.com/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/missus_jones
- Saint Rocke on Jan 4: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/97822110/missus-jonesa-tribute-to-amy-winehouse-hermosa-beach-saint-rocke?partner_id=100
Image Credits
Sean Dickhert
Steve Hastings
