For over ten years, Ciara Martina has focused on creating opportunities for independent artists in Chicago and beyond. As the founder of Midwest Takeover and manager of Chicago rapper and entrepreneur Queen Key, Martina has built a platform with a clear goal: providing underground artists a stage without financial barriers.
Although Midwest Takeover officially launched in 2014, Martina’s passion for music began years earlier. Growing up in a family deeply connected to music, she credits the late King The Hood Savior as the person who truly inspired her journey into the industry.
King The Hood Savior, an affiliate of Beanie Sigel’s State Property Chicago, was widely respected for his talent and leadership before his tragic passing in October 2010. His promising career was cut short before reaching its full potential, leaving behind unreleased music and his final mixtape, Back To Work. Today, his legacy continues through his son, rising Chicago artist Lil King. Martina also gives flowers to King’s best friend, Keke, and his brothers for continuing to keep his memory alive.
Four years after King’s passing, Martina transformed her passion into action by launching Midwest Takeover.
Her very first event, “United We Stand, Divided We Fall,” took place in 2014 at Club Will’s in Markham, Illinois, and was hosted by Heron Tracks. What started as one showcase has since grown into a respected platform that has helped countless artists gain exposure.
By the end of 2015, Midwest Takeover had already begun making noise with its Billboard showcase, again hosted by Heron Tracks alongside Paris Bueller, DJ Victorious and DJ Louie V. The lineup featured an impressive collection of talent, including Queen Key’s first-ever performance, Sasha Go Hard, Bo Deal & Crew, Luccie V, Chinchilla Meek, Ill Will, Mikey Dollaz, Shawnna, and headliner Cap 1.
Now celebrating its 24th showcase, Martina says this latest event reminded her exactly why she started Midwest Takeover in the first place.
“It reminded me what I bring to underground artists,” she reflected. “These artists need a platform.”
Hosted by Gotti Woodz, the event featured 21 artists, each performing two to three songs. Unlike many showcases, Midwest Takeover continues to stand apart because Martina does not charge artists to perform. Artists are given the opportunity to perform for free, and when ticket fees are involved, they have the opportunity to earn their money back by selling tickets to their supporters.
Martina personally reaches out to artists who are making an impact in their respective cities, creating diverse lineups that showcase talent from Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Indianapolis, Detroit, Michigan and other markets.
Over the years, Midwest Takeover has welcomed standout performers including Calboy, FatMoney, Valee, Queen Key, Fly Pirate, Skinz, JuJilla, Chanelle Tru, Caviar Dreams and Cap 1, while hosts such as Money Maha and Bree Specific have also played important roles in bringing energy to the platform.
Her work extends far beyond Chicago. Martina has organized trips that took 15 to 20 Chicago artists to Atlanta on two separate occasions, as well as Memphis and Detroit, where she collaborated with local promoters to help artists expand their audiences and build new industry relationships.
The latest showcase also highlighted another special moment for her family. Her son, rising artist Lil Shano, who previously performed during Queen Key’s birthday celebration and in Champaign-Urbana, is now preparing to take the stage at the Tip Fest Pep Rally Takeover, continuing the family’s growing musical legacy.
After 24 successful showcases, Midwest Takeover has become more than a concert series. It has evolved into a movement focused on artist development, networking and creating opportunities for independent musicians who simply need someone willing to open the door.
As Chicago’s underground music scene continues to evolve, Ciara Martina remains committed to making sure the next generation of artists has a place to be seen, heard and celebrated.
Special S/O to DJ Reese and her brother RioProductions
🎥: c.films_96
