Friday, June 19, 2009
Super Stolie's first children's album has arrived!!
YOU CAN LISTEN TO SAMPLES AT
www.superstolie.com
Catch Super Stolie and The Rockstars (that's the band) at this year's TASTE of CHICAGO!
FRIDAY JULY 3RD - 12:45PM - 1:30PM - FUN TIME STAGE
Located near the corner of Columbus and Jackson.
ABOUT THE NEW CD:
After more than a decade performing music professionally, Chicago songwriter, Stolie has directed her wit to a new demographic, and under a new moniker; Super Stolie celebrates the humility and hilarity of life in songs for KIDS!
When I Grow Up, her fourth solo album, but first collection of children’s songs, features 11 original ditties like "Two Minutes" about how long to brush your teeth and "Kitties and Dogs," a rocker encouraging the adoption of pets so that our dreams of one day becoming veterinarians can be fulfilled. You'll also hear “The Unicorn,” written by Shel Silverstein and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” the all-vocal song written by Bobby McFerrin and a #1 single from the late 1980’s.
When Super Stolie first began playing shows for kids -- at fundraisers and birthday parties -- she found ways to add twists to popular traditional songs; perhaps Old MacDonald also had a jungle? Inevitably, the songwriter’s own clever material began to emerge. The songs on When I Grow Up talk of exploring Chicago’s many attractions, rapping your name, traveling on an escalator, describing what you see in the sky, peanut butter preferences, and just generally being happy about life!
For the album, Super Stolie performs on guitar, piano, bass, djembe, harmonica, tambourine, and of course singing! But listen closely, and you might also hear her clapping her hands, walking in high heel shoes and making animal noises! Drums, strings, and everything else were realized with the help of Apple’s Garageband, the program with which Super Stolie recorded her album in her Chicago home.
For more information, please email stolie@superstolie.com.
YOU CAN LISTEN TO SAMPLES AT
www.superstolie.com
Catch Super Stolie and The Rockstars (that's the band) at this year's TASTE of CHICAGO!
FRIDAY JULY 3RD - 12:45PM - 1:30PM - FUN TIME STAGE
Located near the corner of Columbus and Jackson.
ABOUT THE NEW CD:
After more than a decade performing music professionally, Chicago songwriter, Stolie has directed her wit to a new demographic, and under a new moniker; Super Stolie celebrates the humility and hilarity of life in songs for KIDS!
When I Grow Up, her fourth solo album, but first collection of children’s songs, features 11 original ditties like "Two Minutes" about how long to brush your teeth and "Kitties and Dogs," a rocker encouraging the adoption of pets so that our dreams of one day becoming veterinarians can be fulfilled. You'll also hear “The Unicorn,” written by Shel Silverstein and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” the all-vocal song written by Bobby McFerrin and a #1 single from the late 1980’s.
When Super Stolie first began playing shows for kids -- at fundraisers and birthday parties -- she found ways to add twists to popular traditional songs; perhaps Old MacDonald also had a jungle? Inevitably, the songwriter’s own clever material began to emerge. The songs on When I Grow Up talk of exploring Chicago’s many attractions, rapping your name, traveling on an escalator, describing what you see in the sky, peanut butter preferences, and just generally being happy about life!
For the album, Super Stolie performs on guitar, piano, bass, djembe, harmonica, tambourine, and of course singing! But listen closely, and you might also hear her clapping her hands, walking in high heel shoes and making animal noises! Drums, strings, and everything else were realized with the help of Apple’s Garageband, the program with which Super Stolie recorded her album in her Chicago home.
For more information, please email stolie@superstolie.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALL TIME LOW HAS BEEN KIDNAPPED BY FIVE WOMEN WHO ARE THREATENING TO DESTROY
THE ONLY COPY OF THE BAND'S SOON-TO-BE-RELEASED ALBUM, NOTHING PERSONAL
MTV'S ARTIST OF THE WEEK EXPLORES THIS IMAGINARY SCENARIO AND GIVES FANS A PREVIEW AT 3 NEW SONGS IN THESE VERY SPECIAL VIDEO CLIPS RUNNING ON AIR AND ONLINE NOW
NOTHING PERSONAL IN STORES JULY 7; BAND ON TOUR WITH WE THE KINGS, AND WARPED TOUR THIS SUMMER
June 18, 2009- All Time Low's highly anticipated sophomore full length release, Nothing Personal (Hopeless Records) hits stores July 7, but before then MTV is scaring fans with an alternate reality where the record is in real danger of being lost forever to five super fans who want the band all to themselves.
While the band was struggling to survive this creepy and luxurious ordeal they found the time to perform an exclusive acoustic performance of their song Weightless, as well as create exclusive mini music videos for 3 new songs- Damned If I Do Ya (Damned If I Don't), Weightless, and Lost In Stereo.
You can catch the clips on air on MTV for the rest of June or watch them online at MTV.com.
Watch the full kidnapping: http://www.mtv.com/videos/misc/401142/full-story.jhtml#id=1613590
ALL TIME LOW HAS BEEN KIDNAPPED BY FIVE WOMEN WHO ARE THREATENING TO DESTROY
THE ONLY COPY OF THE BAND'S SOON-TO-BE-RELEASED ALBUM, NOTHING PERSONAL
MTV'S ARTIST OF THE WEEK EXPLORES THIS IMAGINARY SCENARIO AND GIVES FANS A PREVIEW AT 3 NEW SONGS IN THESE VERY SPECIAL VIDEO CLIPS RUNNING ON AIR AND ONLINE NOW
NOTHING PERSONAL IN STORES JULY 7; BAND ON TOUR WITH WE THE KINGS, AND WARPED TOUR THIS SUMMER
June 18, 2009- All Time Low's highly anticipated sophomore full length release, Nothing Personal (Hopeless Records) hits stores July 7, but before then MTV is scaring fans with an alternate reality where the record is in real danger of being lost forever to five super fans who want the band all to themselves.
While the band was struggling to survive this creepy and luxurious ordeal they found the time to perform an exclusive acoustic performance of their song Weightless, as well as create exclusive mini music videos for 3 new songs- Damned If I Do Ya (Damned If I Don't), Weightless, and Lost In Stereo.
You can catch the clips on air on MTV for the rest of June or watch them online at MTV.com.
Watch the full kidnapping: http://www.mtv.com/videos/misc/401142/full-story.jhtml#id=1613590
Exclusive Performance clips:
Weightless Acoustic:
Weightless full band (part 1):
Weightless full band (part 2):
Damned If I Do Ya (Damned If I Don't) Part 1:
Damned If I Do Ya (Damned If I Don't) Part 2:
Lost In Stereo (part 1):
Lost In Stereo (part 2):
All Time Low will perform a string of dates on the Main Stage of this summer's Vans Warped Tour. Having just recently finished a tour with Fall Out Boy, the Maryland foursome will be jumping on Warped Tour in Oceanport, NJ, and staying on it until the end in Los Angeles, CA. Prior to these dates, they will do a short headlining tour with We The Kings and Cartel, hitting several cities on the East Coast.
Track Listing for Nothing Personal is below:
1. Weightless
2. Break Your Little Heart
3. Damned If I Do Ya (Damned If I Don't)
4. Lost In Stereo
5. Stella
6. Sick Little Games
7. Hello, Brooklyn
8. Walls
9. Too Much
10. Keep The Change, You Filthy Animal
11. A Party Song (The Walk of Shame)
12. Therapy
Tour dates with We The Kings, Cartel, & Days Difference:
7/09/09 Richmond, VA - The National
7/10/09 Philadelphia, PA - Electric Factory
7/11/09 Towson, MD - Towson Center - Towson University
7/12/09 Poughkeepsie, NY - The Chance
7/13/09 Wantagh, NY - The Bay Stage @ Jones Beach
7/15/09 Toronto, ON - Kool Haus
7/16/09 Cleveland, OH - House of Blues Cleveland
7/17/09 Pittsburgh, PA - Riverplex Amphitheatre
7/18/09 Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock Café
All Time Low Warped Tour dates:
7/19/09 Oceanport, NJ - Monmouth Park Racetrack
7/21/09 Boston, MA - Tweeter Center for the Performing Arts
7/22/09 Virginia Beach, VA - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
7/23/09 Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
7/24/09 Orlando, FL - Central Florida Fairgrounds
7/25/09 Miami, FL - Cruzan Amphitheater
7/26/09 Tampa, FL - Vinoy Park
7/28/09 Atlanta, GA - Lakewood Amphitheater
7/29/09 Cincinnati, OH - Riverbend Music Center
7/30/09 Milwaukee, WI - Marcus Amphitheater
7/31/09 Detroit, MI - Comerica Park
8/01/09 Chicago, IL - First Midwest Bank Amphitheater
8/02/09 Minneapolis, MN - Canterbury Park
8/03/09 St. Louis, MO - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
8/04/09 Kansas City, MO - Sandstone Amphitheater
8/07/09 Boise, ID - Idaho Center Amphitheater
8/08/09 Salt Lake City, UT - Utah State Fairgrounds
8/09/09 Denver, CO - Invesco Field
8/12/09 Calgary, AB - Race City Speedway
8/14/09 Vancouver, BC - Thunderbird Stadium
8/15/09 Seattle, WA - Gorge Amphitheater
8/16/09 Portland, OR - Washington County Fairgrounds
8/19/09 Fresno, CA - Save Mart Center
8/20/09 Mountain View, CA - Shoreline Amphitheater
8/21/09 Sacramento, CA - Sleep Train Amphitheater
8/22/09 San Diego, CA - Cricket Wireless Amphitheater
8/23/09 Los Angeles, CA - Home Depot Center
Pitchfork Music Festival Announces 2009 Schedule, Tickets for Sunday Sold Out!
The 2009 Pitchfork Music Festival, to be held July 17th - 19th in Chicago's Union Park, is closing in, and the schedule is now officially set! Plans can be made, airline tickets bought, and squeaky bicycle wheels greased. Also, Sunday tickets are now sold out! There is still a limited quantity of Friday and Saturday tickets available, and they can be purchased here: http://www.pitchforkmusicfestival.com.
Pitchfork Music Festival 2009 Schedule
FRIDAY, JULY 17
8:40 (A) Built to Spill
7:20 (C) The Jesus Lizard
6:10 (A) Yo La Tengo
5:00 (C) Tortoise
SATURDAY, JULY 18
8:40 (A) The National
8:30 (B) The Black Lips
7:30 (B) Matt and Kim
7:25 (C) Beirut
6:30 (B) Lindstrøm
6:15 (A) Doom
5:30 (B) Wavves
5:15 (C) Yeasayer
4:30 (B) Ponytail
4:15 (A) Final Fantasy
3:35 (B) Bowerbirds
3:20 (C) The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
2:40 (B) The Antlers
2:30 (A) Fucked Up
1:45 (C) Plants and Animals
1:45 (B) The Dutchess & The Duke
1:00 (A) Cymbals Eat Guitars
1:00 (B) Disappears
SUNDAY, JULY 19
8:40 (A) The Flaming Lips
8:30 (B) The Very Best
7:30 (B) Mew
7:25 (C) Grizzly Bear
6:30 (B) Vivian Girls
6:15 (A) M83
5:30 (B) Japandroids
5:15 (C) The Walkmen
4:30 (B) DJ/Rupture
4:15 (A) The Thermals
3:35 (B) Women
3:20 (C) Pharoahe Monch
2:40 (B) The Killer Whales
2:30 (A) Blitzen Trapper
1:45 (C) Frightened Rabbit
1:45 (B) Dianogah
1:00 (A) The Mae Shi
1:00 (B) Michael Columbia
A=Aluminum Stage, B=Balance Stage, C=Connector Stage
**********************************
About the Pitchfork Music Festival:
This year marks the fourth anniversary of the Pitchfork Music Festival -- and the fifth time Pitchfork has presented a music festival in Union Park. The three-day event will once again showcase a wide range of global artists on three stages, with a focus on forward thinking programming at a reasonable price. Beginning with the music and continuing through all facets of its production, the Pitchfork Music Festival is dedicated to providing both attendees and musicians an overwhelmingly positive, comfortable, and fun experience. In years past the Pitchfork Music Festival has proven to be the best event to see indie stars in key, ascendant points in their careers, as well as a wide range of established and widely loved artists that appeal to a diverse audience.
An independently run, consistently sold-out festival, Pitchfork attracts more than 45,000 fans of all ages from 45 states and 11 countries. With over 50 individual vendors, as well as specialty fairs, the Pitchfork Music Festival offers attendees a wide range of activities on top of its stellar musical program. Additionally, the fest not only supports local businesses and the local economy, but also promotes the Chicago arts community as a whole.
Pitchfork Media is the premier destination for music criticism, news, features, and audio/video content. With more than 1.9 million unique readers per month and over 20 million page views, Pitchfork has earned one of the internets most loyal followings and a reputation as the music worlds primary tastemaker.
Tickets for the 2009 Pitchfork Music Festival are on sale now. Further information can be found at http://www.pitchforkmusicfestival.com.
The 2009 Pitchfork Music Festival, to be held July 17th - 19th in Chicago's Union Park, is closing in, and the schedule is now officially set! Plans can be made, airline tickets bought, and squeaky bicycle wheels greased. Also, Sunday tickets are now sold out! There is still a limited quantity of Friday and Saturday tickets available, and they can be purchased here: http://www.pitchforkmusicfestival.com.
Pitchfork Music Festival 2009 Schedule
FRIDAY, JULY 17
8:40 (A) Built to Spill
7:20 (C) The Jesus Lizard
6:10 (A) Yo La Tengo
5:00 (C) Tortoise
SATURDAY, JULY 18
8:40 (A) The National
8:30 (B) The Black Lips
7:30 (B) Matt and Kim
7:25 (C) Beirut
6:30 (B) Lindstrøm
6:15 (A) Doom
5:30 (B) Wavves
5:15 (C) Yeasayer
4:30 (B) Ponytail
4:15 (A) Final Fantasy
3:35 (B) Bowerbirds
3:20 (C) The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
2:40 (B) The Antlers
2:30 (A) Fucked Up
1:45 (C) Plants and Animals
1:45 (B) The Dutchess & The Duke
1:00 (A) Cymbals Eat Guitars
1:00 (B) Disappears
SUNDAY, JULY 19
8:40 (A) The Flaming Lips
8:30 (B) The Very Best
7:30 (B) Mew
7:25 (C) Grizzly Bear
6:30 (B) Vivian Girls
6:15 (A) M83
5:30 (B) Japandroids
5:15 (C) The Walkmen
4:30 (B) DJ/Rupture
4:15 (A) The Thermals
3:35 (B) Women
3:20 (C) Pharoahe Monch
2:40 (B) The Killer Whales
2:30 (A) Blitzen Trapper
1:45 (C) Frightened Rabbit
1:45 (B) Dianogah
1:00 (A) The Mae Shi
1:00 (B) Michael Columbia
A=Aluminum Stage, B=Balance Stage, C=Connector Stage
**********************************
About the Pitchfork Music Festival:
This year marks the fourth anniversary of the Pitchfork Music Festival -- and the fifth time Pitchfork has presented a music festival in Union Park. The three-day event will once again showcase a wide range of global artists on three stages, with a focus on forward thinking programming at a reasonable price. Beginning with the music and continuing through all facets of its production, the Pitchfork Music Festival is dedicated to providing both attendees and musicians an overwhelmingly positive, comfortable, and fun experience. In years past the Pitchfork Music Festival has proven to be the best event to see indie stars in key, ascendant points in their careers, as well as a wide range of established and widely loved artists that appeal to a diverse audience.
An independently run, consistently sold-out festival, Pitchfork attracts more than 45,000 fans of all ages from 45 states and 11 countries. With over 50 individual vendors, as well as specialty fairs, the Pitchfork Music Festival offers attendees a wide range of activities on top of its stellar musical program. Additionally, the fest not only supports local businesses and the local economy, but also promotes the Chicago arts community as a whole.
Pitchfork Media is the premier destination for music criticism, news, features, and audio/video content. With more than 1.9 million unique readers per month and over 20 million page views, Pitchfork has earned one of the internets most loyal followings and a reputation as the music worlds primary tastemaker.
Tickets for the 2009 Pitchfork Music Festival are on sale now. Further information can be found at http://www.pitchforkmusicfestival.com.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
BROOKE HOGAN SET TO RELEASE HER SOPHOMORE ALBUM THE REDEMPTION ON SOBE ENTERTAINMENT ON JULY 21
BROOKE’S SECOND SINGLE "HEY YO" TO HIT RADIO ON JUNE 28
HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL VH1 SHOW BROOKE KNOWS BEST SECOND SEASON DEBUTED ON JUNE 7
June 17, 2009 – New York, NY – Brooke Hogan, the sultry 21-year-old singer-songwriter, is set to release her brand new second album The Redemption on SoBe Entertainment, July 21st. Brooke co-wrote all but two tracks on the captivating new album, which showcases her best work to date. On The Redemption, fans will take notice as Brooke solidifies herself not only as a pop singer but as a songwriter with style. The album is a pop wonderland with up-beat, sexy dance rhythms and hip-hop influences, all overlaid with Brooke's signature voice. Her first single from the album, "Falling," enjoyed a successful run on the Billboard Top 40 and Rhythmic Top 40 Charts and features her SoBe Entertainment label mate Stack$. Brooke is now preparing to release her brand-new second single, "Hey Yo," which features Grammy nominated Kon Live Distribution/Interscope recording artist Colby O'Donis (Akon, Lady Gaga). Her single "Hey Yo" is set to impact radio on June 28th.
Brooke has become the sweetheart of fans through her highly successful VH1 show Brooke Knows Best, with the second season of the show debuting on June 7. She also recently appeared on VH1 Top 20 countdown to promote the video for her first single "Falling." The "Falling" video can currently be seen on MTV, MTV Hits, VH1 and on numerous online outlets, including AOL, Yahoo and more.
Brooke began her professional recording career at just 15-years-old, breaking out from her celebrity upbringing as Hulk Hogan's daughter to become a star in her own right. Her first single, "Everything To Me," hit airwaves in 2004, and hit #1 on the Billboards Top Singles Sales Chart. She released her debut album Undiscovered through SoBe Entertainment in 2006. The album featured production from Scott Storch, Steve Morales and Kaygee; writing from Nelly Furtado; and guest spots from Paul Wall, Stack$ and Beenie Man. Undiscovered spawned Brooke's hit single "About Us," featuring Paul Wall. The song also hit #1 on the U.S. Top Singles Sales Charts, and was a Top 5 radio hit in the U.K. Brooke continues to wow her fans across the globe, as her sexy signature style makes its mark on the music world.
For more information on Brooke Hogan, go to: www.sobeentertainment.com, www.myspace.com/brookehoganmusic and www.twitter.com/missbrookehogan
BROOKE’S SECOND SINGLE "HEY YO" TO HIT RADIO ON JUNE 28
HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL VH1 SHOW BROOKE KNOWS BEST SECOND SEASON DEBUTED ON JUNE 7
June 17, 2009 – New York, NY – Brooke Hogan, the sultry 21-year-old singer-songwriter, is set to release her brand new second album The Redemption on SoBe Entertainment, July 21st. Brooke co-wrote all but two tracks on the captivating new album, which showcases her best work to date. On The Redemption, fans will take notice as Brooke solidifies herself not only as a pop singer but as a songwriter with style. The album is a pop wonderland with up-beat, sexy dance rhythms and hip-hop influences, all overlaid with Brooke's signature voice. Her first single from the album, "Falling," enjoyed a successful run on the Billboard Top 40 and Rhythmic Top 40 Charts and features her SoBe Entertainment label mate Stack$. Brooke is now preparing to release her brand-new second single, "Hey Yo," which features Grammy nominated Kon Live Distribution/Interscope recording artist Colby O'Donis (Akon, Lady Gaga). Her single "Hey Yo" is set to impact radio on June 28th.
Brooke has become the sweetheart of fans through her highly successful VH1 show Brooke Knows Best, with the second season of the show debuting on June 7. She also recently appeared on VH1 Top 20 countdown to promote the video for her first single "Falling." The "Falling" video can currently be seen on MTV, MTV Hits, VH1 and on numerous online outlets, including AOL, Yahoo and more.
Brooke began her professional recording career at just 15-years-old, breaking out from her celebrity upbringing as Hulk Hogan's daughter to become a star in her own right. Her first single, "Everything To Me," hit airwaves in 2004, and hit #1 on the Billboards Top Singles Sales Chart. She released her debut album Undiscovered through SoBe Entertainment in 2006. The album featured production from Scott Storch, Steve Morales and Kaygee; writing from Nelly Furtado; and guest spots from Paul Wall, Stack$ and Beenie Man. Undiscovered spawned Brooke's hit single "About Us," featuring Paul Wall. The song also hit #1 on the U.S. Top Singles Sales Charts, and was a Top 5 radio hit in the U.K. Brooke continues to wow her fans across the globe, as her sexy signature style makes its mark on the music world.
For more information on Brooke Hogan, go to: www.sobeentertainment.com, www.myspace.com/brookehoganmusic and www.twitter.com/missbrookehogan
Thursday, June 11, 2009
FITZGERALD’S 29TH AMERICAN MUSIC FESTIVAL
June 11, 2009 (Berwyn, IL) — As summer finally begins to act the part, FitzGerald’s will add to the heat with its 29th American Music Festival, featuring 39 bands in 4 days on the tent, club and SideBar stages. This year’s festival, sponsored by Miller Lite and 93XRT, will run for four days: Wednesday, July 1 through Saturday, July 4.
Drivers making their construction-slowed way down Roosevelt Road (the project is slated for completion well before the festival starts) will note the tents going up and the outdoor stage and outside areas under construction. “We cover the parking lot with tents and provide as much seating as possible, notes FitzGerald. “It’s a festival, but without the standing, baking in the sun and port ‘o lets. We try and make it as much like a regular night at FitzGerald’s as we can, only with ten extra bands.”
Owner/booker Bill FitzGerald frankly admits that it’s a bit of an all-star game, welcoming back friends like Dave Alvin, Marcia Ball, Terry Adams, Pat McLaughlin, Terrance Simien and Jon Dee Graham. FitzGerald is also looking forward to reunion with a band that hasn’t made its way up from Texas for quite a while. “For me, one of this year’s highlights will the great Joe Ely Band on opening night, which will reunite Joe’s high-powered 80’s band, featuring rock and roll’s premier saxophonist Bobby Keys of the Rolling Stones (“Brown Sugar”), who has also played or recorded with with Buddy Holly, Dion, the Beatles, Elvis, Eric Clapton and Joe Cocker; guitarist David Grissom has toured and recorded with the Dixie Chicks (musical director), the Allman Brothers, Chris Isaak, Ringo Starr, John Mellencamp, James McMurtry and Buddy Guy.
There are always several new acts, too, recommended by agents, fans and musicians. One of this year’s contenders for rookie honors is Trombone Shorty, a dynamic horn player who has appeared with everyone from Diana Krall to Juvenile, and was chosen by the Jazz & Heritage Festival to appear on their annual poster—the youngest artist (by 18 years!) ever to receive the honor. Another not-to-miss first timer is W.P.A, a fluid lineup of stellar artists including Sean Watkins (Nickel Creek), Glen Phillips (Toad the Wet Sprocket),
Luke Bulla (Jerry Douglas Band, Ricky Skaggs, Lyle Lovett) and Sebastian Steinberg (Soul Coughing, Neil Finn, Dixie Chicks). This was the lineup at press time; look for surprise additions onstage.
These names only begin the list of acts slated for this year’s festival. Musical highlights include Dave Alvin & The Guilty Women (FitzGerald’s debut!), boogie-woogie piano master Marcia Ball, Cajun superstars Beausoleil, hillbilly Bluegrass revivalists Big Smith, Ohio quartet Over The Rhine, Austin icons the Gourds, Nashville soul master Pat McLaughlin, blues diva Shemekia Copeland, Americana jam band Cornmeal, Telecaster master Bill Kirchen, jump blues legend Roomful of Blues and dozens of other acts of all descriptions.
Fans of our rich Chicago music scene can see Cathy Richardson, Robbie Fulks, The Waco Brothers, the Swamp Dogs tribute to Mike Jordan (featuring Michael McDermott), the Long Gone Lonesome Boys, Chocolate Covered Karma and musical chameleons Tributosauras, who this year will become Elvis Presley. Festival t-shirts will feature the artwork of Chicago’s own Heather McAdams.
FitzGerald’s will dedicate this festival to the late, great Koko Taylor, Queen of the Blues, longtime performer here and friend to the club since the first year the roadhouse opened. Expect dedications and stories from Marcia Ball and Shemekia Copeland, who have been inspired by Taylor’s life and work. On her website, Copeland writes: “If it weren't for Koko, I wouldn't be able to do what I do. I have lost a friend, mentor, and my ‘Blues Mama.’ I will think of her every day, and she will live on in my heart for the rest of my life.”
Wishbone restaurant, which sits right next to the club, will be serving up classic American BBQ with a southern flair; offerings will range from the venerable hot dog and chips to more adventurous jambalaya, barbequed pork, vegetarian bean cakes and hot wings, with plenty of sides to round out the menu. The city of Berwyn has graciously allowed FitzGerald’s the use of a portion of the street on Clarence Avenue as a food court, allowing hungry music fans an “away” space to take a break from the action and enjoy Wishbone’s festival fare.
FitzGerald’s is located at 6615 W. Roosevelt Road in Berwyn. The festival runs Wednesday, July 1 from 4:30pm- 1am; Thursday, July 2 from 4:30 pm-2am, Friday, July 3, from noon-3 am; and Saturday, July 5, from noon to 3 a.m. Admission at the door is $30 each day, with a $5 early bird discount during the first hour. No advance tickets are sold, but festival fanatics can purchase a 4-day pass for $100 (Available for purchase in advance at club only and at the door on July 1st). Children under 12 are only $5 and are welcome until 10pm. For complete listings and information check www.fitzgeraldsnightclub.com.
June 11, 2009 (Berwyn, IL) — As summer finally begins to act the part, FitzGerald’s will add to the heat with its 29th American Music Festival, featuring 39 bands in 4 days on the tent, club and SideBar stages. This year’s festival, sponsored by Miller Lite and 93XRT, will run for four days: Wednesday, July 1 through Saturday, July 4.
Drivers making their construction-slowed way down Roosevelt Road (the project is slated for completion well before the festival starts) will note the tents going up and the outdoor stage and outside areas under construction. “We cover the parking lot with tents and provide as much seating as possible, notes FitzGerald. “It’s a festival, but without the standing, baking in the sun and port ‘o lets. We try and make it as much like a regular night at FitzGerald’s as we can, only with ten extra bands.”
Owner/booker Bill FitzGerald frankly admits that it’s a bit of an all-star game, welcoming back friends like Dave Alvin, Marcia Ball, Terry Adams, Pat McLaughlin, Terrance Simien and Jon Dee Graham. FitzGerald is also looking forward to reunion with a band that hasn’t made its way up from Texas for quite a while. “For me, one of this year’s highlights will the great Joe Ely Band on opening night, which will reunite Joe’s high-powered 80’s band, featuring rock and roll’s premier saxophonist Bobby Keys of the Rolling Stones (“Brown Sugar”), who has also played or recorded with with Buddy Holly, Dion, the Beatles, Elvis, Eric Clapton and Joe Cocker; guitarist David Grissom has toured and recorded with the Dixie Chicks (musical director), the Allman Brothers, Chris Isaak, Ringo Starr, John Mellencamp, James McMurtry and Buddy Guy.
There are always several new acts, too, recommended by agents, fans and musicians. One of this year’s contenders for rookie honors is Trombone Shorty, a dynamic horn player who has appeared with everyone from Diana Krall to Juvenile, and was chosen by the Jazz & Heritage Festival to appear on their annual poster—the youngest artist (by 18 years!) ever to receive the honor. Another not-to-miss first timer is W.P.A, a fluid lineup of stellar artists including Sean Watkins (Nickel Creek), Glen Phillips (Toad the Wet Sprocket),
Luke Bulla (Jerry Douglas Band, Ricky Skaggs, Lyle Lovett) and Sebastian Steinberg (Soul Coughing, Neil Finn, Dixie Chicks). This was the lineup at press time; look for surprise additions onstage.
These names only begin the list of acts slated for this year’s festival. Musical highlights include Dave Alvin & The Guilty Women (FitzGerald’s debut!), boogie-woogie piano master Marcia Ball, Cajun superstars Beausoleil, hillbilly Bluegrass revivalists Big Smith, Ohio quartet Over The Rhine, Austin icons the Gourds, Nashville soul master Pat McLaughlin, blues diva Shemekia Copeland, Americana jam band Cornmeal, Telecaster master Bill Kirchen, jump blues legend Roomful of Blues and dozens of other acts of all descriptions.
Fans of our rich Chicago music scene can see Cathy Richardson, Robbie Fulks, The Waco Brothers, the Swamp Dogs tribute to Mike Jordan (featuring Michael McDermott), the Long Gone Lonesome Boys, Chocolate Covered Karma and musical chameleons Tributosauras, who this year will become Elvis Presley. Festival t-shirts will feature the artwork of Chicago’s own Heather McAdams.
FitzGerald’s will dedicate this festival to the late, great Koko Taylor, Queen of the Blues, longtime performer here and friend to the club since the first year the roadhouse opened. Expect dedications and stories from Marcia Ball and Shemekia Copeland, who have been inspired by Taylor’s life and work. On her website, Copeland writes: “If it weren't for Koko, I wouldn't be able to do what I do. I have lost a friend, mentor, and my ‘Blues Mama.’ I will think of her every day, and she will live on in my heart for the rest of my life.”
Wishbone restaurant, which sits right next to the club, will be serving up classic American BBQ with a southern flair; offerings will range from the venerable hot dog and chips to more adventurous jambalaya, barbequed pork, vegetarian bean cakes and hot wings, with plenty of sides to round out the menu. The city of Berwyn has graciously allowed FitzGerald’s the use of a portion of the street on Clarence Avenue as a food court, allowing hungry music fans an “away” space to take a break from the action and enjoy Wishbone’s festival fare.
FitzGerald’s is located at 6615 W. Roosevelt Road in Berwyn. The festival runs Wednesday, July 1 from 4:30pm- 1am; Thursday, July 2 from 4:30 pm-2am, Friday, July 3, from noon-3 am; and Saturday, July 5, from noon to 3 a.m. Admission at the door is $30 each day, with a $5 early bird discount during the first hour. No advance tickets are sold, but festival fanatics can purchase a 4-day pass for $100 (Available for purchase in advance at club only and at the door on July 1st). Children under 12 are only $5 and are welcome until 10pm. For complete listings and information check www.fitzgeraldsnightclub.com
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Blues icon Koko Taylor dies
June 3, 2009 4:49 PM
Koko Taylor, the Grammy Award-winning "Queen of the Blues," died Wednesday afternoon at Northwestern Memorial Hospital of complications from surgery, according to Marc Lipkin of Alligator Records. She was 80.
Alligator reported on its Web site this afternoon that Taylor's final performance was on May 7 in Memphis at the Blues Music Awards, where she sang her hit "Wang Dang Doodle" after receiving her award for Traditional Blues Female Artist Of The Year.
Survivors include Taylor's husband, Hays Harris; daughter Joyce Threatt; son-in-law Lee Threatt, grandchildren Lee, Jr. and Wendy, and three great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements will be announced.
The woman known as the Queen of the Blues had been playing 200 shows a year for decades. But that ended in October 2003 when she was struck down by a heart attack and slipped into a 28-day coma. Friends feared for her life. When she emerged from the hospital after four months, she had to re-learn how to walk. She didn't perform again until the spring of 2004.
Born Cora Walton in 1935 (or 1928, depending on which biography you believe), she was orphaned by the time she was 11, and had to work the cotton fields to support herself. She came to Chicago in 1952 with her future husband, Robert "Pops" Taylor, to escape the plantation life and "look for work, start a new life, get married and have a family."
She had no intention of becoming a singer. But she was inspired by the blues songs of Memphis Minnie and Big Mama Thornton at an early age, and had sung gospel in church.
When she came to Chicago, she was thrilled by the music she encountered in the South Side clubs, amplified and raucous, a harder incarnation of the back-porch brand of blues she had heard in the South. It was the heyday of Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf, and "Pops" Taylor persuaded them to let Koko sing. "I closed my eyes and I got started," she said. "There were no other women on the scene."
But her big voice won her a following, and she was instantly accepted. Dixon in particular became a mentor, and persuaded her to record what would become her signature song, "Wang Dang Doodle," in the mid-'60s for Chess Records. Taylor was sheepish about the risqué subject matter because of her gospel background, but it soon came to define her feisty style.
-- Trevor Jensen and Greg Kot
June 3, 2009 4:49 PM
Koko Taylor, the Grammy Award-winning "Queen of the Blues," died Wednesday afternoon at Northwestern Memorial Hospital of complications from surgery, according to Marc Lipkin of Alligator Records. She was 80.
Alligator reported on its Web site this afternoon that Taylor's final performance was on May 7 in Memphis at the Blues Music Awards, where she sang her hit "Wang Dang Doodle" after receiving her award for Traditional Blues Female Artist Of The Year.
Survivors include Taylor's husband, Hays Harris; daughter Joyce Threatt; son-in-law Lee Threatt, grandchildren Lee, Jr. and Wendy, and three great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements will be announced.
The woman known as the Queen of the Blues had been playing 200 shows a year for decades. But that ended in October 2003 when she was struck down by a heart attack and slipped into a 28-day coma. Friends feared for her life. When she emerged from the hospital after four months, she had to re-learn how to walk. She didn't perform again until the spring of 2004.
Born Cora Walton in 1935 (or 1928, depending on which biography you believe), she was orphaned by the time she was 11, and had to work the cotton fields to support herself. She came to Chicago in 1952 with her future husband, Robert "Pops" Taylor, to escape the plantation life and "look for work, start a new life, get married and have a family."
She had no intention of becoming a singer. But she was inspired by the blues songs of Memphis Minnie and Big Mama Thornton at an early age, and had sung gospel in church.
When she came to Chicago, she was thrilled by the music she encountered in the South Side clubs, amplified and raucous, a harder incarnation of the back-porch brand of blues she had heard in the South. It was the heyday of Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf, and "Pops" Taylor persuaded them to let Koko sing. "I closed my eyes and I got started," she said. "There were no other women on the scene."
But her big voice won her a following, and she was instantly accepted. Dixon in particular became a mentor, and persuaded her to record what would become her signature song, "Wang Dang Doodle," in the mid-'60s for Chess Records. Taylor was sheepish about the risqué subject matter because of her gospel background, but it soon came to define her feisty style.
-- Trevor Jensen and Greg Kot
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