On the evening of Saturday, May 3, 2025, the lot at Visions Odeum and Events on 119th and Loomis filled with family, friends, and longtime fans as the city unveiled a street sign honoring Sam Chatman, the ‘Godfather of Steppin’.
Chicago Southsider was on the ground to witness the celebration of Chatman, whose influence on Chicago’s dance scene spans generations. The crowd braved the chilly winds to celebrate a man who shaped the cultural heartbeat of Chicago’s South and West Sides. ABC7’s Samantha Chatman co-hosted the event alongside Alderman Ronnie Mosley and Farley Jackmaster Funk Keith, the Godfather of House music, helping to honor this cultural icon while others praised his role in elevating Steppin’ across the country.
More than a legendary DJ, Chatman was a community builder who bridged divides between neighborhoods—and even rival street gangs—through the unifying power of Steppin’. His daughter, ABC7’s Samantha Chatman, honored him on behalf of the family, joined by other children who shared touching remarks.
“A lot of people know my dad as the Godfather of Steppin’, and that is true, but a lot of people don’t know how giving of a man he is,” said Samantha Chatman. “My dad can be very philanthropic, and he cared about our youth. You would often see him on Channel 19 hosting Back-to-School programs to encourage the youth, especially our Black youth, to get excited and go back to school.”
Toward the end of the celebration, other Chicago greats—including ABC7 photographer Ken Bedford and George Daniels of George’s Music Room—were honored with surprise tributes and presented with large street signs bearing their names. The evening wrapped up with a lively Steppin’ demo before the crowd moved inside Visions to keep the dancing going on the hardwood floors.
From coining the term “Steppin’” to nurturing dancers citywide, Chapman left a lasting mark on Chicago’s cultural landscape.
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