Daniel Kuypers, aka “Copperpot,” is something of a renaissance man. Not only did he spend his younger years on a transglobal journey, but he returned to his hometown of Chicago where he built an empire of sorts through his record label/studio, EV Productions. His latest full-length, titled “WYLA?” includes many notable lyricists and musicians including Masta Ace, Prince Po, and Psalm One to create a serious masterpiece. Learn about his take on the Windy City (aka Haterville) in our Stomping Grounds exclusive below.

What’s your town’s nickname?
Chi-Town. City of Big Shoulders. Second City, and my personal favorite: Haterville.
What’s your nickname for your town?
Poopface.
Why do you live there?
Stuck in the mud.
What is your favorite local attraction (monument, park, etc)?
The lakefront. In the summer there are boobies. And in the winter there is ice and rocks, its like the moon. Really. I have been there.
What is your favorite local event/festival?
That one where they have the big beers in Lincoln square, German Fest.
What is the best time of year to be there?
June 6th-17th, after that it is too hot and too cold.
Who is your favorite local celebrity/personality?
Svengooli.
Who has the best jukebox (and what’s in it)?
The Green Mill. Jazz.
What is your favorite place to see live music and what was your favorite show there?
The Green Mill. Favorite show was Will Blades with Idris Muhammed.
Where is the best place to drink and what’s their specialty or happy hour?
There is no happy hour in Chicago, against the law. But the bar on my street corner, Winchester/Foster has no name and they have 5 miller highlifes for like 10 bucks so I go there all the time. And also, they got petron for me so now I can black out there too.
What is your favorite local band?
Office.
What is your favorite diner or restaurant and what is their best dish?
Lawry’s Prime Rib. A big ole prime rib – Oh man.
What is your favorite record store and what was your best find there?
Dusty Groove. I can’t afford anything in there but it is amazing.
What is your favorite local shop?
The Serbian deli on Lawrence with the delicious salamis.
What is your favorite local publication (alternative weekly, zine, website or blog)?
http://chicago.craigslist.org/cas/