four guys with nothin better to do than to bastardize metal music Hail!Hornet is a warning that southern sludge is getting thicker and meaner, and no matter how tight you wear your boots, it’s going to lock hold and suck your ass right on in. You can conjure in your mind what Hail!Hornet is going to sound like on paper, but they exceed your expectations by twisting chains around their knuckles and smashing windows, bricks and teeth on their self-titled debut album, one that loops theories from each of its constituents and creates a bare-boned, bourbon-breathed (to paraphrase “He Who Walks Behind the Rose Bros.”) swamp rat of an album that’s going to be mandatory for the mud mutants who trip out on this stuff. … Ray Van Horn jr. … A long running rumor of a band previously called Vagabond that came to light in the spring/ summer of 2006. Here’s how it went – Troy asks Vince, Vince asks Erik, Troy asks Dixie, all say yes ! Vince gathers Riffs and lights off the MIG 100, Erik beats the Christ out of the drums and Dixie drinks bourbon and bitch-slaps the Fender ‘P’…then we all drink bourbon ! Troy spits blood, we all drink more bourbon ! Get chased out of shed by hornets that Dixie pissed off… hence the name …more bourbon. Mission accomplished !
A Chicago-based rock band formed in 2011 with a soulful sound that will make you move, make you think, and make you feel. Yellow jacket is all about bringing the best musical sound, bringing people together, and bringing some good into the world.
-Yellow Jacket Sound-
We’re dedicated to producing the greatest art and the best musical experiences possible.
-Yellow Jacket Community-
We’re interested in building relationships among people and artists.
-Yellow Jacket Cause-
We’re committed to donating 20% of our earnings to support local charities and non-profits that are doing great work for those in need. If you’d like to nominate an organization for us to support, please email us and let us know more about them!
At this point in their career, it’s almost easier to list the prog acts SCALE
THE SUMMIT haven’t toured with than the ones they have. From legends like Dream Theater and Yes, to cult heroes such as Cynic and Devin Townsend, to modern trailblazers such as Periphery and BTBAM, to heavy experimentalists like Intronaut and Mastodon, the band has shared stages with a who’s who of the genre’s past, present and future.
This mix of classic and contemporary, timeless and topical is also reflected in the instrumentalists’ evocative sound, which is just as vital in today’s post-
post- / anything-goes world of shuffled playlists as it would have been on the freeform rock radio playlists of the 1970s. The group’s fifth album, “V,” sees the group further develop their colorful musical palettes thanks to the addition of new drummer JC and the work of returning mixer Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist), who also collaborated with the band on 2013’s Billboard-charting “The Migration.”Described as “essential prog” by Guitar World, SCALE THE SUMMIT was formed in 2004 after guitarists Chris and Travis met while attending Hollywood’s Musicians Institute. The group self-released their first album, 2007’s “Monument,” before signing with Prosthetic for the 2009 release of their sophomore effort “Carving Desert Canyons.” That album earned acclaim from fans, critics and peers alike
This is for those of us who observe and recognize the evidence of evil in faith, hypocrisy of government and the poisons of herd mentality. We are here to confront deceit and although the aroma of fresh, hot, shit nauseates us, we are all too eager to devour it with fork and knife…then ask for seconds so that we may have the privilege of violently vomiting it back down the throats of the contingent. This is for us so that we can be heard. Loud and passionate, our cries are intended to alarm and awaken. We want to destroy what it has taken centuries to construct. We want to punish those that abdicate reason and slaughter those with influence. We demand devastation so that we may rebuild and once again reclaim control of our own lives. With ire and disgust, we reject irrational ideals in favor of logic and common sense, and we’ll scream our message of discontent from bloody throats and open wounds. This is Elitist. – Jayson Smith “We skin our gods, we sell our faith, black holy hands are the tribute to what we’ve sold.”
OCD is an up and coming rap duo straight out of Philadelphia, PA. Their unique progressive hip hop sound has been receiving plenty of attention recently on the East Coast. Still high school seniors, Moosh & Twist are two teens with dreams to change the game in a positive way. Two young men with the drive to make it. Swag.
Hailing from the DMV, more specifically Maryland, 22-year-old rapper Logic has been steadily cranking out music over the past couple of years that, at times, makes you feel like you’re back in ’96. The funny thing about it, though, is that’s precisely his goal. Never one to conform to “what’s hot” or “what’s buzzing,” Logic has been inspired by the Hip-Hop that helped redefine the genre and culture throughout the 1990s. Artists and groups like Nas, Wu-Tang, Jay-Z, and Gangstarr, are all influences of the young rapper, who has found a way to combine what he loved about each artist and give you something that is raw, lyrical, innovative, and fresh, while at the same time being 150% Logic.
Priority/Capitol Records Artist Illi composes and delivers lyrics with a raw and unabashed eloquence, weaving together prose and poetry that draw upon his upbringing on the East Side of Chicago. An avid philanthropist and the consummate gentleman, he volunteers with inner-city schoolchildren to support positive community development. He utilizes his intellect to challenge the status quo by incorporating into his lyrics a reverence for history, a love and intricate understanding of his proud Haitian heritage, and a contagious energy that pulls fans deeply into each one of his songs. His powerful music has garnered major accolades; The Boy Illinois has been featured on BET.com, Thisis50.com, Revolt TV, Complex Magazine, hiphopdx.com, CBS Radio, Shade 45, and XXL Magazine. He’s shattered the glass ceiling by being the first-ever rap artist to perform at the Native American Music Awards. Hip Hop Weekly named him as one of their ‘Next to Blow’ artists. Chicago-based hip-hop blog Fake Shore Drive fingered his sophomore release as one of the most highly anticipated of 2014. He’s been interviewed repeatedly by legendary Hip-Hop journalist, MTV alum and radio personality Sway Calloway. The hype surrounding his career attracted veteran rap maverick Lupe Fiasco, who invited him on three separate national tours in 2015 and 2016. Their long with-standing relationship drove Lupe to declare Illi as “…one of the leaders of the next generation of hip hop.”
Est. in 2000 – Members of Borgata is an organization of hustlers, entrepreneurs, and entertainment oriented businessmen who concentrate on strategic marketing and networking to create a business brand of excellence for Business and Artist Management!
Gaining the majority of her industry experience writing and touring with other artist as a background vocalist. Chicago’s Alt/Rocker Esh makes a splash taking center stage. With her dynamic, emphatic delivery, Esh moves hearts and hips; with her glam/punk rock sartorial style. One must not forget Esh’s four piece band that packs hard-rocking compositions with powerful guitar-, bass-, and drum-driven punches. Just enough sauce to allow the pint size rocker the freedom to stir up a host of emotions from the affectionate to the aggressive. If Esh’s upcoming EP is any indication of that which is to come from her first album, it will be a big year for her. Shes already one of new artists to watch in 2012.
Hmm lets see. Well just put it this way, im NOT in this bizz to be friends with anyone. Ive hit rock bottom and my music is a reflection of what i go through. Categorize me as whatever type of rapper you want, but I am just Hopsin at the end of the day. NO i dont worship satan! NO im not a horrorcore/juggalo rapper. NO my eyes arent real. NO Im not down with Illumaniti. YES i was a special ed student And YES i really did lose my virginity to a fat bitch. Enjoy the music while im still hungry.
Labeled as “The Peoples Rapper”, Jon Connor is third generation musical talent with the triple threat abilities of writing, producing, and performing. Jon Connor’s innovative style of music using unique beats, merged with raw emotions, and clever lyrics is a talent that cannot be silenced. His music conveys genuine purpose and individuality, rare qualities in contemporary rappers.
Greek Fire is a mission to capture the attention of a rock deprived generation. A mission to re-vitalize the spirit of rock music in all of it’s purity and greatness. A mission to create uplifting, soaring music for those who need it now more than ever. ‘DEUS EX MACHINA’ Greek Fire’s debut record out now! http://www.amazon.com/Deus-Ex-Machina/dp/B005FNV8C6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1313533954&sr=8-2 Greek Fire is comprised of 4 young men from the planet Earth, each sharing an extreme passion for their respective instruments. Greek Fire is about purity and expression, poetry and mystery, the beauty of the journey. Faith in something greater, a quest into the unknown, a connection with the fire within. Embracing the power of words, the beauty of the guitar riff, the energy created through real rhythm, Greek Fire is a quest to resurrect the greatness of rock music for those who want something more. Natural melodies and rhythm with no cover ups, no pitch correction, no splicing and dicing it to perfection, just the spirit of that natural and attitude-filled first take. We invite you to the ride
Dubbed “rock n’ roll classicists” and “an eclectic synthesis of psychedelic grunge and classic rock” by Chicago press Model Stranger’s sound and unique look has pleased rock and roll purists, indie rock fans, and casual listeners all the same. Their variety of sonic influences covers ground of which fans have described as ranging from Tom Petty and David Bowie to Pearl Jam and Muse. While taking a break from the road, Model Stranger has been in the studio working on songs and additional material for a follow up to their debut release “Dreams & Bones”. This next effort is proving to be a more focused studio project which contrasts to the approach taken on their first record. Priding themselves on their live prowess they recently released “Live at the Double Door” which showcases select tracks from a 2011 performance. The band will be releasing first listens and sneak peeks of their new material throughout the Winter/Spring of 2012.
Etching out the blueprint for the future of emceeing, ADaD is the next breakout artist to enter into the rap game. Championed by the likes of Exile and Madlib, he is the nexus between hip-hop’s Golden Era and the new movements derived from today’s hip-hop.
‘m a 6’8 Hip-Hop artist with a passion for music, and an even greater work ethic. I love my fans, so hit me up on Twitter or Facebook and I’ll try to respond to you as quickly as possible!
Dezert Eez is a 4 man crew of mcs that bring a political edge to the realm of hiphop. Dezert Eez is the rebirth of true hiphop. This group not only brings a lyrical level unmatched in todays game but also drops food for thought. The Eez blend a series of street tales with the most vivid creative flows heard in some time.
“Eighteen-year-old Philly rapper Tayyib Ali made a name for himself last fall with his mixtape 18 and this month he’s set to drop his new one, Keystone State of Mind. Maybe it’s the catchy ’60s lounge sample, maybe it’s Ali’s smooth, friendly flow and honest message, but I can’t stop listening to the title track. “Rap is my life,” he says at the end of the track. “This is what I’m passionate as hell about.” You can tell.” -EC, NYLON MAGAZINE
“I’m an everyday person, rapping about everyday things for every day of peoples lives…”…. – Phil Adé…. …But Maryland rapper/singer Phil Adé isn’t ordinary. A creative talent, to say the least, he is poised to reign over the DMV area, releasing his sounds on anyone who is smart enough to listen. Not focused on cross-over appeal, Phil Adé’s easy-going subject matter and genuine flow is a welcomed addition to the underground hip hop community…..
The music is influenced by the island roots that the members are connected to . The vocalist favors 90’s artist such as Sizzla, & BuJu Banton of the Reggae genre with a collaboration of today’s artist Damen Marley, Collie Budz and Pressure on the dance hall scene. Iblacky as a youth lived amongst the Rastafarian community, Dominica Nyabinghi, in the mountains of a small Caribbean Island. The roots and culture of his music were channeled in the observation of his own tribal experiences. The journey for more knowledge and musical expression led him to pursue endeavors here in the states. Finding other like minded musicians the Ital Conquerors Band was created. The ethnic integration of the members background being Dominican, Jamaican and American created a sound representing all genres that is a must hear.
ULI JON ROTH RETURNS TO NORTH AMERICA SPRING 2024 WITH A STUNNING 3-HOUR EXTRAVAGANZA
Music enthusiasts, get ready for a night of true musical passion and inspiration as legendary guitarist Uli Jon Roth takes us on a 360-degree journey into his unique world of artistic imagination. Uli Jon Roth is thrilled to announce his exclusive 2024 world tour “INTERSTELLAR SKY GUITAR”.
The 3-hour-plus integrated multi-media show will be split into two parts with an intermission. The Sirst half of the concert will feature a wide gamut of new and old pieces written by Uli Jon Roth, including excerpts from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Uli’s Metamorphosis Concerto. It will also include a brief TED Talk by Uli introducing his new book “In Search of the Alpha Law.”
The second part of the concert will synchronize with the worldwide vinyl release of all three ELECTRIC SUN albums, alongside all 5 ULI-era SCORPIONS albums! This will see Uli perform a breathtaking set with his full band, showcasing songs from each ELECTRIC SUN album, as well as tracks from his time with the SCORPIONS. It’s set to be an unforgettable experience for all Uli and ELECTRIC SUN enthusiasts.
Uli Jon Roth’s signature tool of expression is the legendary SKY GUITAR which he invented. The name of the tour “INTERSTELLAR SKY GUITAR” is reSlecting the fact that we are celebrating 40 years since the Sirst one of these ground-breaking instruments were built. The tonal range of Sky Guitars far exceeds that of traditional guitars, effectively turning the electric guitar into a six-octave instrument as opposed to the three-and-a-half octave ones which are industry standard. The ingenious, striking body- shape of Sky Guitars which makes the extra frets possible enables Uli to equal the registers of the violin and the cello. The main stars of the evening are the state-of-the-art “Excalibur” 7-string Sky Guitar, alongside Uli’s famous “Mighty Wing”.
Don’t miss the chance to experience an evening of true musical passion and inspiration with Uli Jon Roth and his full band. Tickets for the 2024 world tour are on sale now.
There’s many types and sizes, with their odd and unique forms, among the human beings that differ from our average status norms.
There are these weathered fellows, somewhat cautious and reserved, who struggle for survival with their humor and their nerve.
From the city where the hypnotic rush is swift, just a-trailing along in the traffic, plumb content just to drift.
A-walkin’ in the rain, their faces pure bliss enlightenment, contrasted to others in their pain.
Sombreros pushed way back, shaded up until the sun set before they make another track.
Some Years Later was formed in the summer of 2005 by singer/songwriter Robert Patrick along with guitarist Mike Pantazis and percussionist Robert Anthony. Soon after Bassist Lee Casino came aboard. Although lead man, Robert Patrick, had been involved in several original projects, the chemistry of the band was just right. Since then, the band has performed with such artists as Kansas, Enuff Znuff, Lou Gramm of Foreigner, the legendary Yardbirds, the Verve Pipe, 12 Stones, Poi Dog Pondering, The legendary Magic Slim, and various other performers. Some Years Later is near completion of their first titled CD release. They continue to amaze their audiences at their performances with their catchy riffs, amazing harmonies, and intense energy. Look out for their new CD available on iTunes soon.
ROBERT GORDON.. AND ..CHRIS SPEDDING.. ARE BACK WITH ….IT’S NOW OR NEVER…., OUT NOW! …. New album features 15 ..Elvis Presley.. songs as performed by Robert Gordon, Chris Spedding and the legendary ..Jordanaires.. in honor of the 30th anniversary of Elvis’s death. …. Buy the download at .. …. .. .. ..Buy the CD at Amazon.. .. ..Buy the vinyl at Elusive Disc.. …. Back in the disco and arena rock era, Robert Gordon put a fist through the heart of the music industry with his first on-fire rockabilly hit, “Red Hot.” Now reunited with legendary guitar ace Chris Spedding for the first time in twenty years, Robert is back to spread the gospel and shake things up again. …. This time they are taking it to a higher level, fortifying their sound with Elvis Presley’s own mighty Jordanaires, who return to their own roots, pumping up songs by the King on the 30th anniversary of his death. …. ..It’s Now or Never.., scheduled for release on July 31 via Rykodisc, is a no-joke salvo from the heated depths of rock’n’roll. Fifteen tracks, a riveting combination of favorites and lesser-known Presley tunes, and no slouching. Recorded in Nashville and produced by Gordon himself, this adult-sized dose of fun is the return to roots that the world has been waiting for. …. “I’m singing better than I ever have,” Gordon says with the confidence of a man who ruled the airwaves with his iconoclastic blast of good-time music including the hit song, “Fire,” a gift from Bruce Springsteen and “Someday, Someway.” …. From rippers like “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” and “My Baby Left Me” through a stirring reading of “Peace In the Valley,” “It’s Now or Never” mines the depths of Elvis’ oeuvre without the smack of ironic revisionism that has been the hallmark of lesser talents. …. Robert Gordon and Chris Spedding will be playing select dates, picking up where they left off twenty years ago. Together they are nothing short of explosive. “This music is not a museum piece,” Gordon declares. “I’m not trying to recreate something. This is how I feel.” ..
Jennifer Hall is a Chicago-based singer/songwriter. Jennifer has always had a goal of making great music despite genre/ trend. Influences include Patsy Cline, Rufus Wainwright, Jeff Buckley, Wilco. Her debut LP ‘In This’ is available now.
Formed in 1985, Material Issue was the brainchild of frontman Jim Ellison, who also played guitar, sang lead vocals, and wrote most Material Issue songs. Ellison met Material Issue’s bassist Ted Ansani while both were attending Columbia College Chicago in 1986. Drummer Mike Zelenko was found through an ad in the Illinois Entertainer later that year.
In 1987, Material Issue released an EP on their own Big Block Label (so named for the big block engines of the 1970s muscle cars Ellison loved) which operated out of Ellison’s bedroom at his parents home in Addison, Illinois. In 1988, “Sixteen Tambourines” appeared on College Music Journal’s compilation and CMJ referred to Material Issue’s music as a “hooky brand of high-powered psycho-pop”. In 1989, they released the single “Renee Remains The Same” which got heavy airplay around Chicago. Over the next two years, the band toured extensively across the Midwest and found time to record what would become their debut album International Pop Overthrow (IPO). The album was a compilation of various demos recorded between roughly 1988-1991 and produced by Jeff Murphy from the Chicago area power pop band Shoes, and recorded at Short Order Recorder, their studio in Zion, IL.
Man made music from Chicago that combines Rock with elements of Folk and Americana. Imaginative lyrics, rich textures and intriguing dynamics go hand in hand with stellar production showcases songs by a band that clearly enjoys making music together.
The Dirty Creeps is a rock band based out of Chicago, IL. Members are Dana Lynn on vocals, Johnny P. on guitar, The Bonk on bass, and Dave Z. on drums. Their debut EP ‘American Dolly’ was released in January of 2012. Their follow-up album is set to be released in summer 2014.
The Love Shots are a “deathwop” band from Elgin, IL. Drawing influences from 50’s doo wop bands, punk bands such as The Ramones and The Misfits, as well as post-punk bands such as The Smiths, Joy Division, etc… they have created a sound all their own. They formed in 2007 with Danny Craig on guitar and Johnny Perrin on drums. Johnny and Rob Nelson had played in several bands prior to The Love Shots, so he was quickly picked up for bass duties. Johnny took a break from the band in early 2009 right before recording a 6 song self titled EP in Gallery of Carpet Studios with friend Steve Jones filling in on drums and Brian Zieske on the soundboard. Johnny has returned to the Love Shots as of the summer of ’09. With recent airtime on 93.1WXRT’s Local Anesthetic and a successful appearance at Metro Chicago, The Love Shots are starting to gain exposure.
Nina Ferraro is a 16 year old Midwest-born indie-folk artist. She began songwriting at the age of 10, skipping 4th grade recess to practice different chord progressions and strumming patterns. She plays several instruments, including piano, guitar, and ukulele.
“I never had anyone tell me that I should be a musician. I didn’t grow up with the idea that I would be anything in the arts,” Ferraro says. “But when I started writing, I didn’t question it.”
Nina continued to explore music throughout her childhood and eventually enrolled in the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago. At age 11 Nina performed at her school talent show, playing guitar and singing a cover of KT Tunstall’s “Other Side Of the World”. She received a standing ovation and the experience fueled her passion for music. In the years following, she performed at venues including Taste of Chicago, SPACE in Evanston, Beat Kitchen, Abbey Pub, Uncommon Ground, and many other venues in Chicago and across the Midwest.
At 14, Nina recorded and released her first original single,”Let It Go,” produced by Wade Norton and Tommy Byrnes (music director for Billy Joel). The legendary Kenny Aronoff worked with Nina in the studio to record drums/percussion for the single.
One year later, Nina returned to Los Angeles, this time to record a five-song EP, produced by Will Golden and Al Sgro (producers of Erik Hutchinson, Meiko, and Michelle Branch).
Since the band’s inception in 2002, HEMI has always been determined to be a band that carried the torch of the true heavy metal sound pioneered by the legendary acts of the 1970’s and 1980’s that influenced them so greatly. Taking such influence and blending it with their own unique style, HEMI has produced a sound that has set them apart from many of the bands of today and put them in a category all by themselves.
Formed in their hometown of Chicago, the band set it’s goals early and cut several demos with various lineups throughout the years before recording and releasing their debut album Fire in the Sky in 2007. Met with an overwhelming response, Fire in the Sky quickly catapulted HEMI into an underground mainstream which caught not only the eyes and ears of thousands of new fans but also critics and industry professionals alike such as famed producer Michael Wagener (Ozzy, Metallica, Dokken, Skid Row, Accept) who gave the band very positive reviews on their work. Fire in the Sky was consequently distributed digitally to every major downloadable channel and is also famous for being the only independently released LP to be distributed by Hot Topic stores across the country.
In 2008 the HEMI teamed up with RavensFilm Productions to contribute the title track of the album to an upcoming motion picture called The Fixer. Director Nick Michalak saw a unique opportunity to work with HEMI further documenting the film’s release and their involvement by producing a music video for the track Fire in the Sky. The video was an instant success and helped expose HEMI even further to a worldwide audience.
The band launched their official YouTube channel in 2010 and received a global welcome that not only furthered their exposure to a worldwide audience but also future touring offers across Europe and South America. With weekly updates for their fans, music videos, backstage highlights and complete show videos, HEMI is determined to bring a full scale experience of the band and it’s members to all of their fans around the world.
Currently working on their second album, HEMI promises that the coming years will be some of the most memorable in the band’s history.
The signs in Chris Zane’s studio couldn’t have been any clearer: “Don’t Overthink It” and one simple word—“BOLD.” Or as Asobi Seksu guitarist/singer James Hanna puts it, “This time, our agenda was to not have one at all; to be mellow about the entire process instead of obsessing over everything.” Maybe mellow isn’t the right word, unless he’s comparing the band’s fourth proper full-length (Fluorescence) to a coiled-up cobra or unconscious crocodile— temperamental types that are one false move away from striking. After all, “Coming Up” sets the scene by plowing into beehive-like synth lines and warp speed washes of dream-pop that leave you wondering just what the hell is going on. Things don’t let up on “Trails” either, as singer/keyboardist Yuki Chikudate sets her immaculate melodies against a barrage of battery-powered chords. Catchy and chaotic to the core, the sky-scraping song pays homage to the pitch-perfect songwriting of the ‘60s by chartering a yellow submarine to the moon. And when the Brooklyn-based quartet (rounded out by bassist Billy Pavone and drummer Larry Gorman) finally hits the ground, their color-saturated soundscapes don’t get dull or cold. They get even brighter, asFluorescence’s many shades shift with each passing song. That includes everything from the expansive/erratic—and yet, oh-so- poppy—prog movements of “Leave the Drummer Out There” to the weightless balladry of “Ocean,” a track that channels its title with swollen synths and beats that bob and weave through the murkiest waters around. “James likes to get a lot more abstract with the music,” says Chikudate, “So Chris (Asobi Seksu’s longtime producer) will often try and reign him in.” “I like to see how far we can take a song before pulling back a bit,” explains Hanna. “Like I’ll say that 100 vocal tracks would sound great in a spot where we only need 40.” And since Asobi Seksu have spent the past decade refining their bombastic but beautiful blend of hailstorm hooks and fog-shrouded 4AD-isms (including last year’s special acoustic album, Rewolf), they knew exactly what to do with all of that restlessness: embrace it.
Fox The Cat is an indie rock band that consists of five close friends, all residing in Chicago, IL. The band was formed in October of 2011. Over the span of the last few months they have been writing and recording their first three songs. Everything the band creates comes from a complete collaboration between their members. As of right now, this is just the beginning for Fox The Cat. Paul has hopped on board as their drummer joining Casey on vocals, Abe on lead guitar, Jimmy on rhythm guitar, and Luke on bass. They are working hard to get more of their catchy tunes out so stay tuned and they’re sure you’ll like what you hear.
At only 19, Chance The Rapper has generated a buzz larger than many recording artist his senior. Since the Spring 2012 release of #10Day Chance has made several radio appearances including Chicago’s WGCI and POWER92, each appearance resulting in the trending of his hit tracks “Juke Juke” and “Hey Ma”. The young artist has also interviewed and appeared on the cover of the Chicago Redeye newspaper and received a review from Forbes.com stating “Chance The Rapper, an artist who draws upon a pool of (these) musical elements and pieces them together into an accessible, fluid amalgamation.”
Chance The Rapper’s explosive stage presence has sold out venues such as Chicago’s Reggie’s Rock Club and inspired hundreds of fans to attend promotional events and listening parties with urban retailers such as Jugrnaut and Leaders 1354. Chance made his first appearance at the 2012 South By Southwest music festival performing at Ruby Hornet & MTV2’s Digital Freshness showcase as well as sharing the stage Chicago’s Kids These Days for several SXSW performances.
A defining moment that cemented Chance’s drive and passion for music was his 10 Day suspension from Chicago’s Jones College Prep High School during his senior year. After several teachers ridiculed his aspirations for music, he set off to make a mixtape as a course of action against the school’s administration. The project known as 10 Day would evolve over time from a simple act of youthful rebellion to a rapidly growing movement with thousands of followers. Chance made his first waves on the Chicago music scene in early 2011 with the track and video for “Nostalgia” gaining him recognition on the Chicago hip-hop blog Fake Shore Drive. Although the original release much of the mixtape was retooled over time and new songs were added, including production by Chuck Inglish of the Cool Kids and the Blended Babies.
Chance garnered more momentum heading into his spring release date by producing and premiering videos for the songs “F You Tahm Bout” and “22 Offs”, both directed by Chicago filmmaker Austin Vesely. The buzz generarated from these videos earned Chance a spot on Complex.com’s “Top 10 New Chicago Rappers to Watch Out For” as well as praise from the article’s author who stated that “Chance’s intricate wordplay, and vibrant sing-songy flow has drawn comparisons to early Eminem… Even when he’s menacing it sounds like he’s smiling on the track.” Both videos also appeared on several national hip-hop blogs, including Illroots.com and 2dopeboyz.com.
Caleb James is a young Rapper and Producer from Chicago, Illinois. He has had upbringing’s with Vic Mensa from Kids These Days and has started a solid name for him self in the underground rap group SaveMoney.
Datskat is the collaboration of Nico Segal, trumpet player of Kids These Days, fatimah warner, female mc NoName, and Malcolm London, chicago poet. The Chicago trio is Deeply rooted in Poetry, Hip Hop, and bebop.
ShowYouSuck has raised the bar for live hip-hop performances and is considered a trailblazer for a new era, alternative hip-hop. Show continues to promote P.M.A (Positive Mental Attitude) while connecting with his fans through shared obsessions such as fun, food and relationships. ShowYouSuck has performed across the United States, winning over fans in New York, California, Texas, Washington, Missouri, Connecticut, Wisconsin, Arizona, Ohio and more. ShowYouSuck ignites stages across the country and spreads the message of friendship, life’s ups & downs, and partying.
theWHOevers are a Chicago-based hip hop duo formed by MCs J. Arthur and DotKom. Known for their high energy stage presence, melodic sounds and catchy lyrics, theWHOevers are dedicated to providing straight-forward, feel good hip hop music. The duo’s musical roots are influenced by a number of musical genres, they use inspiration, imagination and life experience to produce honest lyrical content.
As a Hip Hop artist representing the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, Chandler London is a passionate Emcee determined to share his vision with the world. With initial influences stemming from Ritchie Valens and the raw energy seen in DMX’s Ruff Ryders’ Anthem, Chandler has found new inspiration within acts such as Jay Z, Andre 3000, Ghostface Killah and Big Pun. His sound is rooted in authenticity, being one who writes lyrics in his head opposed to the pen and pad; he’s meticulous in the construction of a song, which produces an honest and relatable dynamic to the music. Chandler’s rhymes channel insight from past and current experiences, while utilizing Synesthesia (the ability to see sound) in his creative process that helps him become closer to his music, saying he needs to, “Listen to the beat, the words are there, I’ve just got to find them.”
20 Mark Helga was formed by Phineas Gage in 2007. She turned her first trick in April 08 to lively crowds in the Chicago area. Helga has enjoyed playing the party and club scene around the city. Helga can be found strutting the classic venues in Chicago including Double Door, Cubby Bear, Underground, Elbo Room and a variety of special events and Chicago Street Festivals.
