“DJ SMI (Tim Guthrie) is a celebrated figure in Pittsburgh’s vibrant music scene, marking 25 years behind the decks this year. Over the years, SMI has worn many hats: promoter, performer, and even a Brazilian restaurateur. His deep love for music and community shines through in every endeavor. Known for his mastery of blending multiple genres across eras and cultures, SMI sees the DJ's role as a custodian of both vibe and knowledge—responsible for balancing audience engagement with moments of discovery and education. Also known as “SMILO” when presented as a Performing Artist and Music Producer. SMILO released his debut Album “Every Minute Counts” on June 21st 2014. Although primarily a Hip-Hop Album there are some tracks that are less defined by any particular genre. As a producer he draws from his eclectic past growing up playing Drums and the Hammer Dulcimer. His legacy is inextricably linked to the success of Shadow Lounge, the iconic East Liberty venue he promoted starting in 2002 and co-owned from 2004 to 2013. Shadow Lounge was a cornerstone for Pittsburgh's artistic and cultural expression, especially for the Black community. It was a space where everyone, regardless of background, felt welcomed and embraced. Guthrie’s influence and vision helped transform the venue into a dynamic sanctuary that fostered connections through live music, poetry readings, and art exhibitions. Whether hosting sweaty dance parties or intimate open-mic nights, SMI’s events cultivated a deep sense of belonging and artistic freedom. Shadow Lounge not only nurtured future local legends like Mac Miller and Wiz Khalifa but also became a meeting ground for misfits and innovators. Many national and internationally renowned acts like Little Dragon, KRS One, Bilal, Ron Trent, Pete Rock, Tony Touch and Big Freedia alongside a who’s who of the underground hip hop scene of the time also graced its stage which became a beacon for cultural exchange and artistic innovation. Today, as SMI continues to evolve as an artist and cultural influencer, he carries forward the ethos of creating spaces where music, art, and community thrive together.”

Swig-Art Records

“DJ SMI (Tim Guthrie) is a celebrated figure in Pittsburgh’s vibrant music scene, marking 25 years behind the decks this year. Over the years, SMI has worn many hats: promoter, performer, and even a Brazilian restaurateur. His deep love for music and community shines through in every endeavor. Known for his mastery of blending multiple genres across eras and cultures, SMI sees the DJ's role as a custodian of both vibe and knowledge—responsible for balancing audience engagement with moments of discovery and education. Also known as “SMILO” when presented as a Performing Artist and Music Producer. SMILO released his debut Album “Every Minute Counts” on June 21st 2014. Although primarily a Hip-Hop Album there are some tracks that are less defined by any particular genre. As a producer he draws from his eclectic past growing up playing Drums and the Hammer Dulcimer. His legacy is inextricably linked to the success of Shadow Lounge, the iconic East Liberty venue he promoted starting in 2002 and co-owned from 2004 to 2013. Shadow Lounge was a cornerstone for Pittsburgh's artistic and cultural expression, especially for the Black community. It was a space where everyone, regardless of background, felt welcomed and embraced. Guthrie’s influence and vision helped transform the venue into a dynamic sanctuary that fostered connections through live music, poetry readings, and art exhibitions. Whether hosting sweaty dance parties or intimate open-mic nights, SMI’s events cultivated a deep sense of belonging and artistic freedom. Shadow Lounge not only nurtured future local legends like Mac Miller and Wiz Khalifa but also became a meeting ground for misfits and innovators. Many national and internationally renowned acts like Little Dragon, KRS One, Bilal, Ron Trent, Pete Rock, Tony Touch and Big Freedia alongside a who’s who of the underground hip hop scene of the time also graced its stage which became a beacon for cultural exchange and artistic innovation. Today, as SMI continues to evolve as an artist and cultural influencer, he carries forward the ethos of creating spaces where music, art, and community thrive together.”

Available to hire

“DJ SMI (Tim Guthrie) is a celebrated figure in Pittsburgh’s vibrant music scene, marking 25 years behind the decks this year. Over the years, SMI has worn many hats: promoter, performer, and even a Brazilian restaurateur. His deep love for music and community shines through in every endeavor. Known for his mastery of blending multiple genres across eras and cultures, SMI sees the DJ’s role as a custodian of both vibe and knowledge—responsible for balancing audience engagement with moments of discovery and education.

Also known as “SMILO” when presented as a Performing Artist and Music Producer. SMILO released his debut Album “Every Minute Counts” on June 21st 2014. Although primarily a Hip-Hop Album there are some tracks that are less defined by any particular genre. As a producer he draws from his eclectic past growing up playing Drums and the Hammer Dulcimer.

His legacy is inextricably linked to the success of Shadow Lounge, the iconic East Liberty venue he promoted starting in 2002 and co-owned from 2004 to 2013. Shadow Lounge was a cornerstone for Pittsburgh’s artistic and cultural expression, especially for the Black community. It was a space where everyone, regardless of background, felt welcomed and embraced. Guthrie’s influence and vision helped transform the venue into a dynamic sanctuary that fostered connections through live music, poetry readings, and art exhibitions.

Whether hosting sweaty dance parties or intimate open-mic nights, SMI’s events cultivated a deep sense of belonging and artistic freedom. Shadow Lounge not only nurtured future local legends like Mac Miller and Wiz Khalifa but also became a meeting ground for misfits and innovators. Many national and internationally renowned acts like Little Dragon, KRS One, Bilal, Ron Trent, Pete Rock, Tony Touch and Big Freedia alongside a who’s who of the underground hip hop scene of the time also graced its stage which became a beacon for cultural exchange and artistic innovation.

Today, as SMI continues to evolve as an artist and cultural influencer, he carries forward the ethos of creating spaces where music, art, and community thrive together.”

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