The Chicago music community is mourning the loss of DJ Commando, whose real name was Landon Wallace, following his death on Friday. The beloved DJ’s family announced his passing on social media, bringing an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues across the city.
Wallace, who had become a fixture in Chicago’s entertainment scene, served as the official DJ for both the Chicago Bulls and Northwestern football. His presence at games and events made him a recognizable figure to sports fans throughout the region, where his music selections helped energize crowds and create memorable atmospheres.
Beyond his work in sports venues, Wallace was a midday DJ for Power 92.3, where he connected with listeners during their daily routines. Power 92 announced Wallace’s passing with heavy heart, reflecting the deep impact he had made on the station’s community and staff.
The medical examiner ruled Wallace’s death a suicide on December 5, 2025. The ruling has prompted conversations about mental health awareness in the entertainment industry, where professionals often face unique pressures while maintaining public personas.
Colleagues and friends have shared tributes honoring Wallace’s legacy. Tone Kapone described Wallace as “a friend to everybody,” capturing the warmth and approachability that defined his interactions with others in the music community and beyond.
In the wake of his passing, a GoFundMe has been set up to celebrate Wallace’s life. The fundraising effort reflects the community’s desire to honor his memory and support those closest to him during this difficult time.
Wallace’s career demonstrated the diverse opportunities available to talented DJs in major metropolitan areas. His ability to transition between sports entertainment and radio broadcasting showcased his versatility and professional range. At Bulls games, his selections helped maintain energy during timeouts and breaks, while his Northwestern football performances contributed to the collegiate game-day atmosphere.
The radio industry has seen significant changes in recent years, with personalities like Wallace building connections with audiences through consistent presence and carefully curated musical choices. His midday slot at Power 92.3 positioned him as a companion to listeners during their workday, creating a sense of familiarity and connection that extended beyond simple entertainment.
Chicago’s music scene has produced numerous influential figures across various genres, from house music pioneers to contemporary hip-hop artists. Wallace’s work bridged multiple aspects of this landscape, bringing his skills to sports venues, radio airwaves, and community events. His presence in these different spaces illustrated the interconnected nature of the city’s entertainment ecosystem.
The sports entertainment industry increasingly relies on experienced DJs to enhance fan experiences at live events. Wallace’s dual roles with professional and collegiate teams demonstrated his ability to read crowds and adapt his musical selections to different audiences and contexts. These skills, developed over years of performance, made him valuable to organizations seeking to create memorable game-day atmospheres.
Mental health resources remain critically important for individuals across all professions. Support services are available for those experiencing crisis or emotional distress, providing confidential assistance to individuals in need.
The loss of Wallace adds to a year that has seen the Chicago music community say goodbye to several notable figures. Each loss reminds the industry of the importance of supporting artists and entertainers who contribute to the city’s cultural vitality while managing the personal challenges that can accompany public-facing careers.
Wallace’s legacy will continue through the countless events he enhanced, the listeners he entertained, and the relationships he built throughout his career. His contributions to Chicago’s entertainment landscape created lasting memories for sports fans and radio listeners alike, cementing his place in the city’s cultural history.
