Help Honor Chris Nigel Shockley's Legacy

Help Honor Christopher Nigel Shockley’s Life & Legacy

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Chris Nigel Shockley, who tragically left us too soon at 55 years old due to a sudden heart attack. His passing was unexpected, and his family and friends are devastated as we all navigate this profound loss.

Chris Nigel was a loving son, an iconic Chicago House DJ, an irreplaceable friend, and a tenacious mentor, known for his kindness, generosity, and the precision with which he could handle vinyl. Born in St. Louis, MO to Arkansas natives Leroy and Mattie Shockley, Chris was youngest of six and was raised in Chicago at a time when House music was slowly evolving within the underground club scene. To many of us here in Chicago, he was our club historian and offered so many people a means to understand music history and learn from his experience as a committed, lifelong artist. He showed us here how to do community best, always offering support and guidance, like water off his back.

Ultimately, Chris lived a life surrounded by good people and good music, doing what he loved with unwavering principles and smooth-as-butter production skills. From Chicago to Toronto, he touched so many lives with his wisdom, passion, and readiness to defend those he cared about, and we are all so grateful to have had him in our lives as much as we did. His absence has been absolutely devastating and he will be so, so missed by so, so many.

We - friends of Chris - are reaching out to our community now for support in covering the funeral and memorial costs that fall on his family. Below is a breakdown of costs, including airfare in order to ship Chris' body to the Shockley family plot in Arkansas.

Additionally, a separate funeral service will be organized in Arkansas once his body arrives, the costs of which are not included in this fundraiser. So any contribution, big or small, would truly mean the world during this difficult time. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this message, as well as any stories you may have of Chris over the years, would also be a tremendous way to support.

Thank you for your love and prayers.

We appreciate you all. Peace.

Costs