DJ Steel Has Died

Kristopher Chupp, a.k.a. DJ Steel, was a longtime member of the metro Phoenix music scene.

July 13, 2020

Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row/Facebook

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Kristopher Chupp, professionally known as DJ Steel, has died of COVID-19.

A GoFundMe campaign started by Chupp's wife, Jessica, reports that Chupp had been in an intensive care unit battling COVID-19 since June 26. The webpage was updated to announce that he died yesterday morning, Sunday, July 12.

Chupp was the entertainment director and a resident DJ at local Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row locations. A statement on the Gilbert location's Facebook page reads: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kris 'DJ Steel' Chupp. He has been with Riot Hospitality Group since the beginning, and was instrumental in developing the Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row brand and musical direction. His amazing positivity & selfless attitude made him an amazing DJ, Father, Husband, and Friend. He will be missed dearly, and the impact he had on our company will never be forgotten. We offer our sincerest condolences to his family & friends."

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Jennifer Goldberg is the culture editor of Phoenix New Times where she oversees the Best of Phoenix, as well as writes and publishes profiles of both local and regional musicians, previews upcoming performances and provides guides on the best of Phoenix’s entertainment scene. She joined the New Times staff in February 2016. Before that, she worked for Jewish News of Greater Phoenix. During her career, Jennifer has received awards from the Arizona Press Club, the Arizona Newspaper Association and the American Jewish Press Association. She holds a bachelor’s of arts in English from Arizona State University.

Contact: Jennifer Goldberg

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