Weekend Run Club

Weekend Run Club 2024 Market Days

Conceived in 2018, The Weekend Run Club remains a band of musical and narrative evolution. Driven by dancey introspection rather than genre alone, The Weekend Run Club teases out technical elements from rock, alternative, indie, punk, and power-pop.  They just released their sophomore LP ‘Liminal Space Race’ via Say-10 Records. 

Weekend Run Club 2024 Market Days
Weekend Run Club 2024 Market Days

“Coming of age is an animal experience that humans share on a global scale. ‘Liminal Space Race’ addresses the nebulous, yet frenetic paradigm shifts of growing up. At the end of the tunnel of adolescence and early adulthood is an unavoidable, rueful acceptance: a fleeting truth which spares no one, especially the queer people of yesterday, today, and tomorrow: We never really stop coming out.”

Weekend Run Club Market Days
Weekend Run Club Market Days

Y2K

Y2K Market Days

With an extensive set from the late 90s into the mid-2000s, Y2K is a showstopper from the moment they play the first note. The combination of energy and musicality that is brought to every show will leave you wanting more!

Out of all the live music and bands, Y2K is an eclectic mix of talent that can only be forged in the Midwest.  They came together to bring their powerhouse stage show of 2000s era music to area’s biggest cities.  From Chicago, to St Louis, to Indianapolis, Milwaukee, even reaching as far as Kansas, Y2K’s performances are as memorable as they are fun to go to.

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The Disco Circus

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Chicago-based disco/funk tribute band, The Disco Circus, creates a NEXT LEVEL nostalgic experience by combining the energy and excitement of a 3-ring circus with the grooviest music from the 1970’s!

The Disco Circus features three dedicated lead vocalists, two female and one male, who act as the ringleaders for the funky festivities. Behind them…the tightest and grooviest band in all the land, featuring drums, bass, guitar, percussion and horns! And while the core of the band is made up of the members of legendary Chicago band, Libido Funk Circus…the additional players, a brand new stage show, and their funk-tastic outfits help to create an over-the-top experience all its own!

If you’re longing for the days of platform shoes, bell bottoms, sparkles galore and music that gets your booty movin’…then put on some polyester and your boogie shoes and let The Disco Circus take you directly to Funkytown!

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UltraBeat

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It’s UltraBeat’s mission to ensure the audience has the time of their lives the UltraBeat way! The wildly entertaining group applies a unique approach where they deliver high-energy dance remix multi-song medleys to ensure there is a continuous flow of music on stage.

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UltraBeat purposely infuse every performance with the best selections of power pop dance songs from the biggest artists of today such as The Weeknd, Dua Lipa, Calvin Harris, David Guetta, Rihanna, Lizzo, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Usher, Kesha, and many more like them.

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Radio Gaga

Radio Gaga Market Days

For the first time, you will hear all the hits of Queen and Lady Gaga in this Vegas-style production show, complete with eye-popping costuming, dazzling choreography, and unmatched showmanship. Prepare to be wowed as the vision and spirit of these performers emanates from the stage, delivering the “Concert That Never Was”!

From the creative minds of/at Magnificent Events and Entertainment, Radio Gaga is the first production of its kind! Audiences experience outstanding vocals, precise choreography, exciting participation opportunities, and to top it all off, viewers of all ages are welcome! You can find Radio Gaga touring all over the Chicago-land and Midwest area, so be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for exciting behind the scene shots, upcoming shows, and much more!

Sofi Vonn

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American-born, London-based electronic pop singer Sofi Vonn’s deep lyrics and light melodies create a set of contradictions that somehow fit together perfectly to tell a relatable narrative of youth. With her exceptional voice, she deftly expresses emotions and opinions on society, love, sexuality, and all the other things that everyone goes through.

Vonn knows about these things from personal experience, which has taken her across the world and back several times. Born and raised in New York City to German parents, she grew up in the picturesque, artistic West Village neighborhood. She discovered she loved singing after joining the choirs at both her school and at church.

Growing up, Vonn’s interest in music was varied enough that even now, she can subconsciously tap into all of these influences. This has given her the freedom to come up with an artistic style that is uniquely her own.

While she was in high school, Vonn and her family moved to Zürich, Switzerland. Her love of singing continued there, though she felt confused as she considered what to do post-graduation. “I liked music but I didn’t know how to get into it, because when I was applying to college for anything musical, they wanted me to be a Steinway Fellow already, basically,” she says.

Stymied, Vonn put her music dreams on hold, returning to the United States to attend Tulane University in New Orleans. She ended up earning a degree in psychology (with a German minor), but as fate would have it, she was brought back to music when she studied abroad in Berlin, Germany for a year.

“I loved Berlin, so I moved back there after I graduated from college – and that’s how I got into techno and DJing,” Vonn says. “The techno scene there is huge.” Besides DJing at a festival, she also studied sound engineering for a bit before finally landing a full-time job with the BMG record label.

BMG brought Vonn back to her hometown of New York City. Her work at the label taught her marketing skills that she then used to help her advance her DJ career at night. She became an in-demand house and techno DJ, booking numerous shows around the city for the next two years.

As she DJed, Vonn would often sing along to the music. Hearing her, a fellow DJ was impressed by her talent and hired her to sing on a track. It was the catalyst Vonn needed to make her return to the idea of seriously pursuing a singing career.

At the same time, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, giving Vonn even more incentive to think about what she really wanted to do – and in the end, she quit her record label job. “I had a great time working at BMG, but it just was time to go,” she says. “When corona happened, I realized that pursuing my own music career is what will truly make me happy.”

With all the knowledge she’d gained as a performer and at the record label, Vonn realized that she finally had both the skill and the experience that music schools wanted. She was accepted into several Masters degree programs, and chose to study popular music at the highly prestigious Goldsmiths, University of London.

Last September, Vonn made yet another trans-Atlantic move so she could begin her graduate studies. Her time there has already paid off: as a school project, she wrote the emotive song “Is It a Crime,” which she says “is about wanting a meaningful relationship and feeling embarrassed about it, but also being like, ‘Is it a crime?’” That song is set for release later this year.

Unlike many pop singers, Vonn writes all of her own material. A vibrant storyteller, her depth of feeling and love for her craft is evident in every track. Her warm and powerful voice is the perfect means for conveying her lyrics, which are at once introspective yet universal. 

Concurrent with her formal music education, Vonn continues to learn about the business aspect of things whenever she can. She found an especially powerful ally when she met renowned music executive Charlie Walk (who helped launch the careers of Lorde, Ariana Grande, and The Weeknd, among many others). Impressed with Vonn’s voice and writing, Walk immediately offered to mentor her, bringing her into his prestigious Music Mastery program earlier this year.

Now that Vonn finally has the necessary experience and support, everything seems to be falling into place with her singing career. She recently recorded a number of songs in Los Angeles, which she plans to release as singles during the coming months. She’s also performed two well-received shows at the prestigious New York City clubs Arlene’s Grocery and Pete’s Candy Store, and she plans to do more shows now that she’s back in London to continue school. 

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Vonn is also keeping her DJ career going – but now, she is able to put techno remixes of her own songs into her playlists, such as the remix of her song “Stranger” that’s coming out on August 12. “That’s the beauty of what I’m doing now – it’s the best of both worlds,” she says of this multifaceted approach. “I’m making pop songs, having shows, having other people remix my pop songs. I already know how to DJ so I’ll play the songs. It’s so convenient!”

Vonn recently graduated from Goldsmiths. But beyond that, she is prepared to continue letting life lead her where it will. After all, that attitude seems to have worked out well for her so far. “I didn’t plan for what’s happening right now – but I know that everything I’ve done was necessary to get here now,” she says.

Wherever Vonn ends up, she’ll undoubtedly find more opportunities to create music that is authentic, honest, and real. Even though her colorful life has led her on a more wide-ranging path than what most people will follow, she is still able to make music that will resonate with listeners anywhere.

Sam Gee

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Sam Gee started his career as a DJ in 2019, but his affinity for music started at a very young age — singing and playing various instruments, including the piano. His DJ career blossomed at an exponential rate, booking events internationally and all over the US. These events include iconic brands like White Party & Urge. Growing up in Vancouver Canada, Sam studied at buisness school while also working as a stage performer for gay festivals across Europe, North and South America and the Middle East.

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As a result of all his international travel, Sam grew an understanding and appreciation for the vast musical attributes that each culture has to offer. This in turn influenced his personal music style, consisting of high energy beats with a middle eastern flare, reflective of his Persian heritage. Sam’s music production journey began in mid 2020, where he traveled to Brazil to learn with a world renowned music producer. Continuing his upward trajectory, Sam transitions to be an iconic DJ and producer and invites you to stay tuned and #FeelTheEnerGEE!

 

Jace M

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Jace Inman is a Chicago based, multi-discipline producer and multi-genre DJ, known best for his work with the preeminent internet radio-station Sub.FM. Diversity and quality are staples of Jace’s designs / DJ sets, and his influences are boundless.

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Shea Coulee

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Shea Couleé (she/they) is a non-binary, internationally-renowned drag superstar, recording artist, model, and actor, known for their fashion-forward editorial looks, expanding their artistry and brand into many different spaces, and their consistant use of the art of drag and costuming as a medium for larger storytelling, having been applauded by Vogue for doing so. Widely celebrated as an activist focused on uplifting LGBTQIA+ individuals and the BIPOC community, they have countlessly shared how important it is for them to harness their career in drag to inspire, calling their drag a “love letter to Black women.”

More at SheaCoulee.com

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Betty Who

Betty Who

To understand where Betty Who currently stands in her career, it’s best to imagine her as she often stood as a kid: solo, in front of the bedroom mirror, belting out hits, dancing like everyone’s watching. Because as the Australian pop queen walked away from her record deal and in to her first independent album, she had a single mandate: “I am going to be the most me I can be.” That is, in part, why her third full-length statement is simply called Betty. It’s pure her: a brilliant swirl of pop—’80s, Y2K, and hyper-modern strains—that encompasses everything from intimate artful fare to darkly sexy bangers to full-on wedding reception shout-alongs. What’s more, these are songs about grown-woman emotions delivered by someone who rediscovered the drive and verve that fueled her rise through music in the first place. As Betty says, “It all came back to joy.”

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There’s a reason Betty was tapped to remake the Queer Eye theme song for the uplifting series’ second season. It’s the same reason she’s soundtracked Pitch Perfect and made the Glee cast swoon, and that a certain legendary flash mob proposal video went viral to the tune of her 2012 debut single “Somebody Loves You.” Joy has always been in the music, but for Betty, her twelfth feeling had faded. “I didn’t understand how damaging it was to feel like I was never living up to expectation,” she says of her time on a major label. “When you’re in the middle of it, you think it’s driving you. When I came out the other side, I realized, no, I was devastated.” She wanted to handpick her team, sink or swim by her own choices, and share music while it’s fresh. With Betty, she did all of that and made an album that, as she puts it, “I’m more proud of than I could possibly say.”

The world got a taste of that with Betty’s first independent single “Ignore Me,” an uplifting ode to moving on set to warm, indie-tinged electropop. Likewise, synth-streaked dance cut “I Remember” takes on something sad—the dissonance that can bubble up in a relationship—and finds the sweetness there as Betty coos, “I don’t want perfect, I want you.” Our heroine not only split from her label in 2017, she got engaged, and the thrill of realizing you could spend your life with someone rings out on “Marry Me.” The song’s exuberance was inspired by the unabashed pop (namely Katy Perry) Betty loved as a teen. Meanwhile, the vintage JT-evoking “All This Woman” addresses a would-be lover but is really about Betty’s acceptance of her own body: “This is me saying to the man or woman I’m standing opposite, ‘This is what I want and you’re crazy if you don’t want it too.’”

These songs spilled out with a similar assuredness—among them, early teaser “Taste,” which Betty has described as “a little rock ‘n’ roll with just a touch of vampire fetish,” and Betty’s first official single, the achingly up-close, acoustic-powered “Between You & Me.” The process began in sessions between runs of her famously vibrant, intensely choreographed tour. She’d planned to write more when she came off the road, but instead realized she already had an album’s worth of songs she adored. So rather than iron them out in high-profile studios around Los Angeles, she absconded to a rental in Palm Springs with her two of her best friends, artist/producer Pretty Sister and decade-long collaborator Peter Thomas. They finished Betty in 10 days between shared meals and streaming sunshine. “It was one of the best times of my life,” recalls Betty. “I swear I’ll never make a record any other way.”

But that setting conjures the beginning of Betty Who, when the woman born Jessica Newham studied cello at Berklee during the week, then took the first train out to Providence so she could spend all weekend inventing her sound at classmate Peter’s family home. And that hustle itself mimics a theme of Betty’s childhood in Sydney: while her classical training began at age 4, she devoted every free second to Britney, Christina, *NSYNC, and MJ. The voices, the moves, the lyrics, the spectacle—she ate it all up, especially that feeling the best pop gives you: “When you hear it,” says Betty, “and go, ‘Oh my God, you literally wrote this about me.’ I’ve wanted to make music like that ever since.” In that spirit, Betty gives us what we need most right now: an excuse to dance in the mirror, license to trust our instinct, and knowledge that joy is never too far away.

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Miss Toto b2b Mary K

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Miss Toto lives in Chicago but started drag in Miami. She is a shark tagging, bodybuilding, international DJ/drag sensation. Outside of being a drag queen, she has taken her passion for philanthropy to raise over $50,000 for the Black Lives Matter movement. More recently she created and lead the first annual Drag-N-Tag shark tagging fundraiser with Field School for Pridelines.

Miss Toto’s other pursuits are the #SEEETOTODIE series, Choke Hole XXXTreme Drag Wrestling,  producing events, as well as designing a fashion collaboration.  It just takes one second until you’ll be saying “#IMINLOVEWITHMISSTOTO”!

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KC Ortiz

Market Days 2023 Performer KC ORTIZ 01

KC Ortiz is an artist, rapper, musician, writer, & entertainer doing what she loves the most. Her longing taste for “Southern Luxury” is the foundation of her music. Music has always been a passion of hers since she was a wee little kid. She believes in following your dreams and putting God first. Kaycee hope you enjoy her music, because she does it from the heart.

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Ariana and the Rose

ariana and the rose

 

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Hypnotic and hyper-imaginative, Ariana and the Rose exists in a wildly dazzling world all its own. Since first emerging, the NYC-based artist has built up a rapturous following on the strength of her ultra-vivid synth-pop. Amassing over 12M streams and more than 75k followers on TikTok (where her videos have drawn over 15M views). She released  her debut album Lonely Hearts Club in 2022, which People Mag called “an impressive dance LP packed with hummable hooks and empowering lyrics that her foremothers (like Robyn and Kylie Minogue) would be proud of.

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Wilson Phillips

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Wilson Phillips is an American pop group formed in Los Angeles in 1989. The group consists of Carnie Wilson and Wendy Wilson, the daughters of Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys, and Chynna Phillips, the daughter of John and Michelle Phillips of the Mamas & the Papas.

Their 1990 eponymous debut album sold over 10 million copies worldwide and included five major US hit singles, four of which went Top 10 (three of those to number one) on the Billboard Hot 100. In 1990, the group won the Billboard Music Award for Hot 100 Single of the Year for their song “Hold On”, and was nominated for five Grammy Awards and two American Music Awards.

Ultra Naté

UltraNate

I am Ultra Naté and am based in Baltimore, Maryland as a singer, songwriter, DJ, producer and promoter.
I have released eight studio LPs [1990-2013] and travel around the globe performing and spinning
live for a variety of audiences.

I’ve been writing my own songs since the beginning of my career. This was pivotal in establishing me as an artist with a distinct style all my own. I was one of the first artists in house/dance music signed to a major record deal with Warner Brothers in the UK in 1989 and I have more than 25 years of experience making groundbreaking music having collaborated with a wide array of artists such as: The Basement Boys, Nellee Hooper, D-Inflience, Mood II Swing, Nona Hendryx, Lenny Kravitz, N’Dea Davenport, DJ Class, NERVO, Tony Moran, StoneBridge, Todd Terry, David Morales, Michele Williams (of Destiny’s Child), Boy George, Morgan Page, Quentin Harris and others!

My sound embraces a variety of genres including house, soul, disco, electro pop, R&B/hiphop and rock and I am honored to be considered an icon of the Dance and LGBT communities worldwide.

Tyler Hall

Tyler Hall 2021

bio from spotify.com

Tyler Hall is a 28 year old singer and entertainer based out of Chicago, where he has been living and performing for 5 years. He’s had the opportunity to perform at many local venues including Hydrate, Charlie’s, Splash, and the Baton Show Lounge, as well as venues in Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Indiana. Tyler is the current Mr. Gay Ohio America, and will be competing for the title of Mr. Gay America 2021 in August of this year. In 2019 Tyler released his debut single “Longer”, and from that point forward continued to release original music that he wrote and released with the aid of his friend and producer Rylan Morgan. His second single “Sanctuary” was released later in 2019, and in 2020 Tyler released his first EP “Dimensions”. Most recently, Tyler had the opportunity to collaborate with producer Danny X out of Kansas City, and together they produced and released his newest single “Good Enough”. All of Tyler’s music can be found on major streaming services.

Ty Herndon

Ty Herndon

The Grammy-nominated and Dove award-winning recording artist has the ability to connect with an audience far beyond his onstage performance. More than 20 years into his career, Herndon shows no signs of slowing down.

Herndon made his chart debut in 1995 with “What Mattered Most,” which became his first No. 1 song and garnered a Song of the Year award (Music Row Magazine). It was also the title track to his debut album, which debuted on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and had the biggest first-week shipment in the history of Epic Records’ Nashville. Between 1995 and 2002, Herndon charted 17 singles, including his three No.1s and numerous top 10 hits, such as “I Want My Goodbye Back,” “Loved Too Much,” “A Man Holding On,” and “Hands of a Working Man.” He topped the charts in 1996 with the single “Living in a Moment” and again in 1998 with “It Must Be Love.”

In 2014, Ty was the first major male country artist to publicly come out as gay in an exclusive with People magazine. He received an outpouring of support that only strengthened his relationship with fans and the country music community, all while expanding his reach to new and diverse audiences. Shortly after, he made history when he hosted a first-of-its-kind country music event, The Concert for Love and Acceptance. The event, designed to raise awareness and support for LGBTQ youth and families, received national attention from Boston Globe, Rolling Stone, Entertainment Tonight, and many more. Since the launch of the event, Herndon has partnered with GLAAD to produce the event each year and created the Foundation For Love & Acceptance in 2020 to further his work on behalf of LGBTQ acceptance.

Ty found himself back at No. 1 in 2020 — this time on iTunes with his remake of “Orphans of God,” a collaboration with Kristin Chenoweth and Paul Cardall featured on his holiday release, Regifted. He is currently in the studio writing and recording a new album — his first of all new music since 2016’s House On Fire.

Trixie Mattel

TrixieMattel

Trixie Mattel is the stage name of Brian Michael Firkus, an American singer, actor, drag queen and recognized “Skinny Legend.” Trixie is the winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season 3 (originally competing on season 7). He is also a Billboard Heatseekers #1 charting recording artist (One Stone, 2018), a wildly successful touring act, and one half of a comic duo with Katya on YouTube (“UNHhhh” & Netflix’s “I Like To Watch”).

In 2019, Trixie worked the festival circuit as the subject of a bio documentary, “Trixie Mattel: Moving Parts,” debuted his cosmetics company Trixie Cosmetics, and released his “Skinny Legend” comedy special.

2020 found Trixie releasing his third album ‘Barbara’ to acclaim from Rolling Stone, Billboard, People, Entertainment Weekly, NPR, Vanity Fair, GQ, Esquire, and more. He also released a New York Times best-selling book with Katya called “Trixie and Katya’s Guide to Modern Womanhood” and also started a podcast with Katya called “The Bald And The Beautiful”.

Trenyce

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Trenyce has always had a passion for singing, songwriting, acting, fashion and philanthropy. After appearing on the hit FOX TV Show AMERICAN IDOL season 2, she has been consistently working in the industry including theatrical productions such as DREAMGIRLS, AINT MISBEHAVIN’, London’s West End show THRILLER LIVE and now Franco Dragone’s TABOO in Macau China, but her talent has also expanded to the big screen. Alongside Jim Carey and Chloe Moretz, she stars in the MARVEL Comic Movie KICK ASS

Todrick Hall

TODRICK

Todrick Hall is a multi-talented singer, rapper, actor, director, choreographer, and social media personality who rose to prominence on and after his appearance on American Idol. His popular YouTube channel has over 3.5 million subscribers and 740 million channel views, consisting notably of original songs, musical collaborations, and choreographed flash mobs for Beyoncé. Todrick also appears regularly on RuPaul’s Drag Race and season two of The Greatest Dancer on BBC.

Todrick distinguished himself as a Broadway star completing successful runs in Chicago, The Color Purple, Kinky Boots, Memphis, and Waitress. He visited over sixty cities worldwide with sold-out tours of “Straight Outta Oz”, “Forbidden”, and “Haus Party”; and won the 2019 “Video for Good” VMA as co-executive producer on Taylor Swift’s LGBTQ+ anthem “You Need to Calm Down”.

His newest EP “Quarantine Queen” is currently available on all media platforms.

 

To the 9s

ToThe9s

To The 9s is a 12 piece band with a horn section and 5 lead singers! These diverse singers bring flexibility to the band’s performance like you’ve never seen! The musicians making up this band have played thousands of private events over the past decade and now have combined forces to bring an unmatched experience to anyone’s event entertainment. You’ve never seen a band like this!

The 12 piece band includes 5 lead singers, 3 piece horn section, as well as one of the best backing bands in the southeast! This 12 piece plays a 3-hour nonstop set! That’s right. No breaks! Once your feet hit the dance floor, you have no reason to step off.

Tiffany

Tiffany

Tiffany Renee Darwish (born October 2, 1971),[2] known mononymously as Tiffany, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and former teen icon. Her 1987 cover of the Tommy James and the Shondells song “I Think We’re Alone Now” spent two weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and was released as the second single from her debut studio album Tiffany.

Her singles “Could’ve Been” and “I Saw Him Standing There”, a cover version of the Beatles’ “I Saw Her Standing There”, followed soon after, with the former also claiming the No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100. Thanks to an original mall tour, “The Beautiful You: Celebrating The Good Life Shopping Mall Tour ’87”, Tiffany found commercial success;[3] and both her singles and the album peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard 200 charts, respectively.

Although Tiffany’s second studio album, Hold an Old Friend’s Hand, featured a Top 10 single, charted in the upper register of the Billboard 200 in 1988, and ultimately became platinum-selling, it failed to replicate the success of her debut. The 1990s saw two additional releases from Tiffany, 1990’s New Inside and the Asia-exclusive Dreams Never Die in 1993, both of which failed to rekindle significant interest. Tiffany returned in 2000 with her first studio album in six years, The Color of Silence. Although the album received some minor critical success, it also failed to achieve any significant standing. Since then, Tiffany has recorded five additional studio albums, as well as two albums of 1980s cover songs, and she continues to tour.

Outside of music, Tiffany posed nude in Playboy and has guest-starred on several reality television shows, including Celebrity Fit Club, Australia’s version of I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! and Hulk Hogan’s Celebrity Championship Wrestling, and has acted in a handful of horror and science fiction films, including Necrosis (2009), Mega Piranha (2010), and Mega Python vs. Gatoroid

The Terms

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The Terms is a cumulation of songs years in the making by multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter Marjan Agicic. Drums and bass support an alternative/pop piano/synth sound that’s lyrically rich and melodically driven.

The Gingers

The GIngers

These chicks rock!” is the reaction you hear when The Gingers hit the stage! Their high-energy arsenal is filled with the greatest rock covers sprinkled with playful surprises. Their rough edge tackles traditionally testosterone-fueled tunes and is nicely bookended with plenty of layer-cake harmonies and melodic favorites that audiences know and love.

Each of The Gingers has a road-tested performance history around the Chicago festival & club music scene. Their genuine love for fun is contagious! “The Gingers Rock!” Visit their website to learn more about them.

The Flat Cats

TheFlatCats

The Flat Cats, based in Chicago, IL, play a range of vintage and modern music rooted in the hottest swinging jazz and blues, contemporary classics, and timeless standards. Whether you choose to listen, tap your foot, or cut a rug on the dance floor, you are sure to be entertained! The group is comprised of six talented musicians with years of performing, arranging, and composing experience.

The Flat Cats have performed at many different venues and events throughout the Midwest, including Navy Pier, The Drake Hotel, Arcada Theatre, Willowbrook Ballroom, Pete Miller’s, Green Dolphin Lounge, and the Summer Dance Series in Grant Park. The band has also backed legendary singing groups such as The Drifters and The Crystals at major venues like The Chicago Theatre, Star Plaza, and Pabst Theatre in Milwaukee, WI. In 2009, The Flat Cats were featured on the WGN Chicago Channel Nine morning news show.

The Flat Cats perform their music equally well in any environment, from cocktail music for your dinner event to a full theater/stadium show for thousands. The variety of our music library allows us to tailor our style and sound to fit your special event. From weddings to corporate parties to a feature act for your festival, The Flat Cats deliver quality entertainment for all ages.

The FIERCE Project

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“Fierce” is an electro pop anthem that invites everyone to “Pose!” “Sashay!” and “Walk!” for change. The empowering bop was designed to bring further awareness to the steadily increasing number of hate crimes and murders against Black and Latinx trans women. 2020 was the deadliest year on record for transgender and gender non-conforming people with an epidemic of violence disproportionately affecting women of color. This charitable release initiative – funded with a grant from Pop Culture Collaborative – aims to enlighten, educate and celebrate the trans community, its mission and their allyship through song.

A portion of the proceeds will be gifted to:

The Sylvia Rivera Law Project (@sylviariveralawproject) – https://srlp.org
The Marsha P. Johnson Institute (@mpjinstitute) – https://marshap.org
The GLAAD Transgender Media Program (@GLAAD) https://www.glaad.org/transgender
“Fierce” is an engaging, propulsive and danceable rallying cry bringing together the formidable talents of Acclaimed award-winning actress and host Angelica Ross, (@angelicaross), International dance pop diva and DJ Ultra Naté (@ultranatemusic), and features the beloved NYC advocate, activist and performer, Mila Jam (@themilajam). Produced by hit factory A2 Productions (@lindalmusic and @iamanthonypreston), this life-affirming banger takes its cues from the many literal and figurative ballrooms and runways the world over. Everyday is another opportunity to feel Fierce!

 

Ultra Naté
bio from ultranate.com

Ultra Naté hard for Baltimore, Maryland, and she’s a world-renown singer, songwriter, DJ, producer, label owner, and promoter. She’s released nine studio LPs [1990-2017] and travels the globe performing and spinning live for a variety of audiences. From horse races and the fashion elite to house parties and dance festivals.

Ultra states, “I’ve been writing my own songs since the beginning of my career. This was pivotal in establishing me as an artist with a distinct style all my own. I was one of the first artists in house/dance music signed to a major record deal with Warner Brothers in the UK in 1989 and I have more than 25 years of experience making groundbreaking music – having collaborated with a wide array of artists such as: The Basement Boys, Nellee Hooper, D-Influence, Mood II Swing, Nona Hendryx, Lenny Kravitz, Frankie Knuckles, N’Dea Davenport, DJ Class, NERVO, Tony Moran, StoneBridge, Todd Terry, David Morales, Michele Williams (of Destiny’s Child), Boy George, 4 Hero, Deee-lite, Masters at Work, Roger Sanchez, Morgan Page, Chris Willis, Quentin Harris and others!”

In Ultra’s nearly three decades of making music, she has remained a musical chameleon, embracing a variety of sounds. Her sound embraces a variety of genres, including house, soul, disco, electro-pop, R&B/hip-hop, and rock. Ultra is honored to be considered an icon of the Dance and LGBTQ communities worldwide. She was recently named one of Billboard Magazine’s “Greatest of All Time” *Top Dance Artists (#12) along with having three entries in the industry bible’s respective “Greatest Of All Time” *Top 10 Dance Club Songs including the perennial, platinum-selling #1 anthem, “Free.”

Ultra’s most recent album collaboration, ‘Ultra Naté & Quentin Harris as Black Stereo Faith’ reached Top 5 on I-Tunes and has spawned the Billboard Top 10 single and video, “I’m Too Sexy (Touch This Skin)” – a spirited alt-funked out cover of Right Said Fred’s classic. Ultra Naté, your original ‘party girl’ keeps bringing the party right back to you.

 

Angelica Ross
bio from missross.com

From the board room, to film sets, to music, and the White House, Angelica Ross is a leading figure of success and strength in the movement for trans and racial equality. Named, “1st Foot Soldier of the Year” in 2015 by Melissa Harris Perry, Angelica Is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, a company that empowers trans and gender-nonconforming people through on-the-job training in leadership and workplace skills. Angelica tours nationally, speaking her powerful mission into action with business leaders, educators, and the President of the United States.

Since studying theater at Florida Atlantic University, Angelica has been featured in film, television, and live theatre. Miss Ross is the breakout star of the upcoming series Her Story, which explores the deeply moving lives and loves of two trans women in LA. For over ten years, Angelica has directly engaged her communities in order to create opportunities for independence, freedom, and success through social work, entrepreneur and leadership development, business building, and education.

Angelica continues to engage leaders both at home and abroad, teaching, entertaining, and consulting for organizational change that creates space for the rich experiences of trans people and people of color to speak, share their value, and create lasting success. As a devout Buddhist, Angelica walks with compassion and believes that all people have worth — it is only a matter of helping each person find it for themselves.

 

Mila Jam
bio from themilajam.com

A legendary YouTube Sensation turned Original NYC Pop Artist, Mila is known around the world for her unforgettable stage performances & one-of-a-kind music videos.

Mila has toured internationally with the Broadway musical RENT; performed alongside James Brown, Mark Ronson, Laverne Cox, Travis Wall, Jody Watley, Lady Kier(Deee-Lite) & Natasha Bedingfield. Appearances include the BBC’s The Lilly Allen Show, MTV & MTV NEWS with special features on The Huffington Post, MTV.com, OUT.com & Perezhilton.com.

She is the Odyssey Nightlife Awards Breakthrough Artist (2015), the GLAM Nightlife Awards Best Video & Dance Artist (2013), and the tal

Taylor Dayne

Taylor Dayne

Taylor Dayne (born Leslie Wunderman; March 7, 1962) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She rose to fame in 1987 after her debut single “Tell It to My Heart”. Dayne achieved six additional U.S. top-10 singles, including “Love Will Lead You Back”, “With Every Beat of My Heart”, “Prove Your Love”, and “I’ll Always Love You”.

Dayne has received two Grammy Award nominations, and has won an American Music Award, and multiple New York Music Awards. She has also received New York Hall of Fame honors and was ranked number 18 on Rolling Stone’s list of the best female dance artists of all time. In December 2016, Billboard magazine ranked her the 28th most successful dance artist of all time.

Sushi Roll

SushiRoll

Formed in early 2012, Sushi Roll quickly perfected their unique blend of high-energy dance music and rock ‘n’ roll swagger and topped it off with memorable stage costumes! Founded by music industry vets and fronted by two of the most mesmerizing young lead singers in Chicago, they easily transition between revved-up versions of your favorite pop and rock hits by artists like Bruno Mars, Rick Springfield, Lady Gaga, Nelly, AC/DC, P!nk, Neon Tree’s and the Jackson 5–connecting them into one a non-stop musical journey that is perfect for casinos, fairs, festivals, corporate and private events, fundraisers and showcase venues. Sushi Roll’s mass appeal crosses all genres and appeals to all ages.

Steve Grand

SteveGrand

July 6, 2018, marked the release of the long-anticipated sophomore album from Steve Grand, not the end of me.  It hit #2 on the iTunes Pop Chart, #10 on Billboard’s Independent Album Chart, and #78 on Billboard’s Top Album Chart. It was released independently on his own label, Grand Nation LLC. The album includes 12 new tracks, all written and composed by Grand. It also features alternate versions of 3 of the songs. Grand says of the tracks, “This album is autobiographical; very personal, somber and reflective. Writing this album was an exercise in catharsis.” He says, “I’m more unfiltered on this album and explore some of the internal and external challenges I’ve faced over the last few years.”

The album’s title track, “not the end of me”, is a song Grand wrote when a long-time relationship was coming to an end.  “Breaking up can be long and drawn-out, painful and ugly.  This one certainly was,” Grand said.  “It was trying and exhausting, (and) this song deals with all of that, as well as the resolution that this is ‘not the end of me.”

Grand also predicts “don’t let the light in” will be a favorite among his fans.  “I wrote it within the last few months before I became sober.  At that time, I was reflecting on the way I had been living my life over the last few years that my song ‘All-American Boy’ blew up, in 2013,” he said.  “I felt isolated and realized I was dealing with that isolation in some unhealthy ways.”

With the release of his first album, All American Boy, in 2015, Steve Grand broke the mold for the traditional singer-songwriter.  Having self-funded a viral video of the title track, then fan funding the release and creating a vocal and energetic fanbase, the openly gay artist from Chicago created a place for himself in the music industry and hasn’t looked back since.  The past 3 years have seen Grand touring across the world, gathering new energetic fans, and creating new music.

With over 18 million views on YouTube, a #3 and #10 album on The Billboard Independent Album charts, and one of the most successful music Kickstarter campaigns ever under his belt, Grand has not just broken the rules, but he has changed the game in how to be a successful singer-songwriter in this era. His album, not the end of me, is available on Steve Grand’s website, at all live shows, and across all digital download and streaming platforms.

Sheila E.

SheilaE

Sheila Escovedo picked up the drumsticks and started making music at the precocious age of three. Sheila delivered her first solo performance to a live audience two years later and has since established herself as one of the most talented percussionist/drummers and performers in the world. Best known to music fans as Sheila E., she became a top session and touring musician before the age of 20, performing and/or recording with George Duke, Herbie Hancock, Billy Cobham, Con Funk Shun, Marvin Gaye (on his final world tour), Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, Gloria Estefan, Patti LaBelle, and Steve Nicks among others.

Sheila E.’s producing, arranging, and performance talents have been showcased throughout the music and film industry with appearances on, The Academy Awards, The Latin Grammy Awards, BET Awards, The American Music Awards, The Kennedy Center Honors, The Summer Olympics, WOW Awards, ALMA’s, and The Image Awards just to name a few. In 2014,  Sheila  released her literary biography Titled The Beat of My Own Drum, and her solo album,  ICON. Following Prince’s death she released  the single Girl Meets Boy in memory of the late, great, Prince.

Sheila E. continues to produce and perform music throughout the world. Her current studio project and tour, ICONIC, is Sheila’s continued contribution to the music industry and her efforts in awareness to social issues and humanitarianism. Sheila E. is CEO of the entertainment company StilettoFlats Inc. located in Los Angeles California.

Shane Marcus

DJ Shane Marcus

Shane Marcus is a New York City based DJ aimed at creating a full sensory musical experience by matching powerful vocals and pulsating drums centered around an international sound with heavy influences from Tel Aviv.

Having worked in nightlife for over ten years, Shane developed an affinity and passion for house music, and sought out to recreate those memorable moments that drove him to take over the decks as a DJ.

Shane delivers a truly explosive high energy performance mixing tracks from the unexpected yesterday to the well-known music we all know and love today; an experience that focuses on bringing the crowd together in a unique and memorable way.

He believes that if you can deliver an emotional experience to people through music, you can lift their senses and propel them to wherever they want to be.

Resident DJ:
ZERO SPACE NYC
MEAT NYC
LABORATORY NYC
Legacy Boston
Cherry DC
HEAT SF

Shane has spun for iconic parties across the country such as Masterbeat, Forever Tel Aviv, Circuit MOM, Cherry DC, Action!, Laboratory, Rhythm Nation, Jubileo, DIGNA, Chorus, Avalon, World Pride NYC, KOZ Miami, DC Pride, Rumours Cartegena, RUFF Miami, Fire Island Pines, MEAT, HEAT, Penthaus, CLIMAX, Hydro Festival and many more.

Scott Free

Scott Free

“City of Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Famer!”

Scott Free is a Chicago-based performer and live music event producer. Scott was a producer in the original House Music scene in Chicago, was part of the 90’s Chicago queercore scene, and had a rap video on BET. Scott has released five solo album, and an LGBT family album by The Diesel Tykes. He has had two of his musicals produced – ‘Witches Among Us’ and ‘Zombie Bathhouse’. In 2010, he was inducted into the City of Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame. He was twice named Outmusician of the Year by the OUTMusic Awards – in 2005 and 2009. He produced the Queer Is Folk/Alt Q Festivals at the Old Town School of Folk Music from 2000 – 2012. He hosts the LGBT live performance series Homolatte in Chicago, now in its 20th year. He also runs an indie queer radio station called Alt Q Radio on Live365.

Sammy Rae and The Friends

Sammy Rae

For as much as Sammy Rae & The Friends may be a band, this collective of, dreamers, and artists considers itself a family first.

Fronted by singer and songwriter Sammy Rae, the group flourishes in any spotlight with a combination of all-for-one and one-for-all camaraderie, palpable chemistry, deft virtuosity, and vocal fireworks. Their sound is a mélange of Sammy’s influences, rooted in classic rock, folk, and funk and sprinkled with soul and jazz. Complete with a rhythm section, horn section, keyboards, and two backup singers, Sammy Rae & The Friends have or will deliver their high-energy, spirited and unrestrained shows to sold-out audiences in the Northeast and beyond, including New York City’s Brooklyn Steel, Boston’s The Royal, LA the Teregram, Burlington’s Higher Ground, Seattle’s The Showbox, Philadelphia’s Theatre of the Living Arts and Chicago’s Metro to name a few..

“Because we come from so many different spaces and studies of music, we’re able to create something very unique,” Sammy states. “We learn from one another as we’re playing together. We’re grateful to have found people who speak the same language, but also speak their own. We have a vision for longevity. The only way that works is if we behave as a family. We’re all very grateful to have the support of one another. This is a large group of people where everyone plays an important role. It’s the lunch table I always wanted as a kid.”

Sammy Rae & The Friends built this kind of trust one show at a time. As the story goes, our fearless leader grew up in Derby, CT, learned piano, and penned her first crop of songs at just 12-years-old. Under the spell of everyone from Queen to Ella Fitzgerald to Bruce Springsteen, she honed her voice. By high school, she cut her teeth in local venues, even releasing a series of independent solo records before college. New York eventually called to the songstress as she enrolled in Manhattan College during 2013. Toughing it out tooth and nail in The Big Apple, she left college in 2014 to pursue music full-time and threw down at countless gigs while continuing to write and record at a prolific pace. At the same time, crowds doubled with every rapturous performance as they built an inclusive safe space for fans everywhere.

Meanwhile, they’ve racked up over 35 million streams on Spotify and have played festivals along The Revivalists, Lake Street Dive, ST Paul and The Broken Bones, and more.

Sam Fazio

Sam Fazio

Chicago-based vocalist Sam Fazio has established a name for himself in the music scene over the past several years. A graduate of DePaul University’s School of Music, Sam’s repertoire includes a unique mix of jazz standards and pop classics. His heartfelt interpretations showcase his soulful, yet classic style.

Sam has entertained audiences at some of the most prestigious venues in the country, including Green Mill, Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, City Winery, Untitled, and SPACE (Chicago); Cliff Bell’s (Detroit); Noce (Des Moines); and Feinstein’s at the Loews Regency and 54 Below (New York City). Sam has also taken the stage at numerous performing arts centers, including Overture Center, Schauer Arts Center, Trueblood, and Metropolis. Sam has held residencies at many renowned hotels including the LondonHouse, Chicago Hilton, and a 6-year run at the historic Drake Hotel. In addition, Sam has performed at many festivals, casinos, and events across the country. For a complete listing, see Sam’s EPK.

Sam shares the stage with some of the top musicians in the Chicagoland area and across the country. Whether performing as a trio or big band, Sam always leaves the crowd wanting more.

 

Salt-N-Pepa

SaltnPepa

Salt-N-Pepa (sometimes stylized as Salt ‘N’ Pepa) is an American hip-hop group formed in New York City in 1985,that comprised Salt (Cheryl James), Pepa (Sandra Denton), and DJ Spinderella (Deidra Roper). Their debut album, Hot, Cool & Vicious (1986), sold more than 1 million copies in the US, making them the first female rap act to achieve gold and platinum status by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album included the single, “Push It”, which was released in 1987 as the B-side to their single “Tramp”, and peaked within the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Salt-N-Pepa’s second album A Salt with a Deadly Pepa (1988), was certified gold by the RIAA. The Trio’s third album Blacks’ Magic (1990), featured the singles “Expression” and “Let’s Talk About Sex”. In 1993, they released the album, Very Necessary, which sold over 7 million copies worldwide (5 million of those in the U.S.), and was the highest-selling rap album by a female act (solo or group) in history at the time. The album included the hit singles “Shoop” and “Whatta Man” with En Vogue. They won the 1995 Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for their song “None of Your Business”, making them one of the first female rap acts to win a Grammy Award, along with Queen Latifah, who won later during the same ceremony.

Salt-N-Pepa have sold over 15 million records worldwide, making them one of the best selling rap acts of all time. Their success in rap and hip hop culture has earned them the honorific title “The First Ladies of Rap”

Rosie & The Rivets

RosieandtheRivets

Rosie & The Rivets perform an electrifying female-fronted retrospective tribute to the first ten years (1954-1964) of Rock & Roll. Along with early Rock & Roll favorites, you’ll hear Girl Group, Rockabilly, R&B, Surf, and British Invasion featuring Rosie’s powerful and versatile voice and backed by a band with extensive theater/tribute/roots music experience (members of the Rivets have worked in The Million Dollar Quartet, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, and The Fab Four: Beatles Tribute).

​Make no mistake, this is not your typical ‘oldies playing oldies’ band. Rosie & The Rivets are a high-energy stage show that’s fresh and fun for all ages. Audiences have a hard time staying in their seats and concerts often turn into dance parties!
​Sticklers for detail, much research went into their stage production; period-correct wardrobe, hair, and makeup along with vintage guitars, drums, and even microphones assure you’ll be in for a truly retro-cool experience. While shows are pure Rock ‘n’ Roll, they pride themselves on staying family and client friendly. Rosie & The Rivets provide the perfect entertainment for festivals, cruises, theaters, casinos, and corporate events.

Rosie & The Rivets are:

Christine Mikulskis aka Rosie, Guitar/Lead Vocals: published print model and TV actress

Frank James, Lead Guitar/Vocals: former member of Legends In Concert, The Fab Four, and American English Beatle Tributes

​Cody “Goose” Siragusa, String Bass/Electric Bass/Vocals: former Million Dollar Quartet, and Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story bass player

Derrick Martens, Drums

 

Rosa

Rosa

Rosa is a queer singer/songwriter whose passion is using art to build community and give back to the world around her. Rosa lives and works in Chicago, IL. She is always on the hunt for collaborators on future projects.

 

Rod Tuffcurls/Bench Press

Rod Tuffcurls Feature

Rod Tuffcurls and The Bench Press is a peak experience band from Chicago. With a focus on bone-crushing 3 part harmonies, laser-sharp musicianship, and a top tier light show, Rod Tuffcurls and The Bench Press is a live performance powerhouse. The band carefully curates each show from a truly eclectic and massive repertoire in order to cultivate an unclassifiable experience of joy and entertainment for everyone in attendance. Go see Rod Tuffcurls and The Bench Press!

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Queen Explosion

queenexplosion

If you’re a fan of the sound, look and wow factor of that crazy little 70’s British band called Queen then get ready for Chicago’s #1 “Queen” Tribute Act, The Queen Explosion! They will rock you!

Pussy Riot

PussyRiot

Conceptual artist and activist Nadya Tolokonnikova is the founding member of Pussy Riot, a global feminist protest art movement. Today, hundreds of people identify as a part of Pussy Riot community.

In August 2022, they released their debut mixtape MATRIARCHY NOW on Neon Gold Records (MARINA, Charli XCX, Christine and the Queens etc.) The mixtape features collaborations with Tove Lo, Salem Ilese “Princess Charming,” Kito, Hudson Mohawke, Slayyyter, ILOVEMAKONNEN, Big Freedia, REI AMI, Phoebe Ryan and more. The release came just before the 10-year “anniversary” of their August 17, 2012 verdict of being convicted with hooliganism motivated by religious hatred, and spending 2 years in jail for protesting Putin.

She was sentenced in 2012 to 2 years’ imprisonment following an anti-Putin performance. Went through a hunger strike protesting savage prison conditions and ended up being sent far away to a Siberian penal colony, where she managed though to maintain her artistic activity and with her prison punk band she made a tour around Siberian labor camps. Published a book “Read and riot: Pussy Riot’s guide to activism.”

Co-founder of independent news service and media outlet, Mediazona. Has spoken before the US Congress, British Parliament, European Parliament, appeared as herself on season 3 of House of Cards, performed at Banksy’s Dismaland exhibition.

Pussy Riot’s Punk-prayer was named by The Guardian among the best art pieces of the 21st century (“feminist, explicitly anti-Putin, protesting the banning of gay pride and the Orthodox church’s support of the president”), collaborated with Bansky on his Dismaland exhibition, endorsed by Marina Abramovic and Ai Weiwei, created an immersive experience in Saatchi gallery in London. Pussy Riot joined the NFT community in early 2021, co-founded UnicornDAO, was instrumental in UkraineDAO raising over $7M for Ukraine, is a PleasrDAO member, and a supporter of a stronger female representation in the NFT space.

Pussy Riot stands for gender fluidity, inclusivity, matriarchy, love, laughter, decentralization, anarchy, and anti-authoritarianism.

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TWITTER
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SPOTIFY

Possibilities Theatre Company

possibilities presents rent 1

Possibilities Theatre Company seeks to harvest an adventurous, creative environment where people from all walks of life are welcome and safe to take risks, try new things, and build a community. Possibilities strives to work with new artists and encourage.

 

PINION

Pinion

PINION is a 4 piece rock cover band from the western suburbs of Chicago, IL. We play with the energy and intent to bring you to the concert of your favorite bands on a nightly basis, and we create this authentic atmosphere in the comfort of your favorite local hangouts.

We don’t just LOVE live music- We LIVE for it. We want to bring that same passion to YOU so that you can experience it the way we do.

PINION covers an incredible range of music from classic rock to country to pop to hard/heavy rock. Our setlist spans over 6 decades of hits from bands like: Alice Cooper, The Cars, Pink Floyd, Luke Bryan, NIN, TOOL, Korn, Muse, Coldplay, White Zombie, Goo Goo Dolls, Weezer, Avenged Sevenfold and SO MUCH MORE!

Peach Presents: Peach ON-AIR

Peach is a brand and event team grown and raised in Chicago. We are dedicated to unifying and celebrating LGBTQ+ women and femme family through music, drinks, food, art and visually stimulating entertainment. Peach brings a fully immersive design for each event, partners with world-class brands to donate thousands to nonprofits, and creates elevated, inclusive experiences.

While the brand’s mission centers queer women and femmes, allies and identities across the LGBTQ+ spectrum are encouraged to join in our safe space.

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
WEBSITE


Empress Of

empress of chicago pride fest

Lorely Rodriguez, the singular mind behind Empress Of, is a songwriter and producer living Brooklyn, NY. In the early part of 2012, she began a personal songwriting exercise, writing, and recording a daily series of one-minute ideas. Completing each of these snippets in several hours apiece, she eventually amassed a catalog of about fifty. Selections from this series were eventually uploaded to YouTube anonymously, each paired with a blank color swatch. The fruits of this project, deemed a series of “colorminutes”, were released on cassette via the Japanese record label, Big Love, and effectively served as the launch of Empress Of.

In the latter half of 2013, following domestic and international touring stints, her most ambitious recording to date, Realize You was self-released online to critical acclaim. Illustrating great progress in production and an even more broad swath of songwriting chops, incorporating witty lyricism and soaring melodies, this is just a hint of what remains in store for the future.

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Aya Ito

AYA ITO

Blazian Sensation Aya Ito is a native of Tokyo, Japan and a multi-genre vocalist and songwriter. Pulling influence from Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, H.E.R., Robert Glasper, Rihanna, and Jhene Aiko, Aya Ito has created her signature Pop/R&B/Soul fusion sound, while also incorporating her trilingual abilities (English, Spanish and Japanese).

Aya has toured the US and Japan wowing crowds with her spirited performances and dynamic sound. Aya’s most recent release, “Just Might” reflects Aya’s pop and R&B influences in her own way and successfully mixes both production styles with live instrumentation.

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE


 

Rhea the Second

RHEA THE SECOND

Rhea the Second is an Alternative Pop and R&B recording artist, vocalist, songwriter and producer. Her most recent achievements as an Independent artist working the reigns of the Chicago Music scene include working with Leon Bridges, Roy Kinsey, Kristen Kaza, Manasseh, Akenya Seymour, Amyna Love, Loona Dae, Melvin Knight, LeftJones, Noname, Chicago Afrobeat Project and more. She was also nominated for Chicago Reader’s Best Pop Artist and Best R&B Artist of 2023.

With over a decade of experience, Rhea the Second is remarkably skilled and unique. Ranging from experimental to the very heart of R&B, the canticles in which Second’s voice reigns over on stage graciously unveils the undeniable beauty of a confident woman creative who isn’t afraid to speak and live her truth in life or on stage.

INSTAGRAM
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WEBSITE


B.Blyss! Takeover ft. Sandra Suave, DJ Feen & Ayodele Drum & Dance

B.BLYSS!

Since 2004, B.Blyss! has produced culturally diverse events for individuals who self-identify as women, sapphic, or LGBTQIAA+. Those familiar with our brand know that we believe in providing inclusive yet exclusive upscale, mature, and professionally crafted events to our supporters who represent the beauty and the essence of the community and its allies.

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
WEBSITE


Cobra B

Cobra B is a Chicago-born, St. Louis-raised DJ, musician, writer, editor and artist who mixes house music, techno, afrobeats, afro house, rap, soul, amapiano, kwaito, jungle, juke, and punk. Since launching her DJ career, she has made appearances in some of Chicago’s most legendary spaces, including Smartbar. From the Zambian house parties she went to as a kid, to the European raves and underground punk shows she went to as a young adult, Cobra B pulls from her unique influences to create energizing, boundary-pushing dance floor experiences.

COBRA B

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Bussy Kween Power Trip

Bussy Kween Power Trip is a Black & Queer punk band from Chicago.

BUSSY KWEEN POWER TRIP

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Breberries

BREBERRIES

In 2017, the cultural marketing company Black Thread Agency launched Peach, a Chicago-based brand and event series devoted to celebrating LGBTQ+ women and femmes. Bre Auberry (Breberries), president of the Black Thread Agency, says Peach exists to give the queer community experiences it does not always have access to. Through its themed events, Peach works to give attendees something more than just a party, but rather, a fully immersive and unique experience.


AZN INVZN ft. Chess Knight, CZ Boogie, Supes Base

CHESS KNIGHT
CHESS KNIGHT

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CZ BOOGIE
CZ BOOGIE

INSTAGRAM

SUPES BASE
SUPES BASE

INSTAGRAM


NDULGNCE

NDULGNCE

NDULGNCE is a dynamic force in music, art, and curation, known for orchestrating unforgettable experiences. As a genre-bending DJ, NDULGNCE captivates audiences at prestigious events, festivals, nightclubs, and lounges. NDULGNCE’s prowess as an artist and curator shines through in producing music, directing photoshoots, and conceptualizing graphic materials. With a proven track record of curating exceptional events and fostering community empowerment, NDULGNCE is a visionary leader at the intersection of creativity and innovation.

INSTAGRAM
WEBSITE

Peach and Party Noire

PartyNoir

Carnival has always been a loud, proud celebration of culture and tradition across the world, with people flooding the streets unapologetically in their boldest and brightest to rejoice in their community. We’ve been offered an amazing opportunity to make our Carnival event just that. With almost 1000 people interested in attending our event, we’ve decided to do it bigger and better and stay true to the heart of this significant cultural event that means so much to so many. Get ready for Peach x Party Noire Present: Pound the Alarm, a queer ode to Carnival – An all-day takeover of Market Days on August 11th! We are giving you a huge main stage with full production and a full 10 hours of POC & Queer programming in the streets of Chicago.

With this pivot, this means many things… all ages and suggested donation ONLY. Allowing us to proudly present this event to be accessible for all! All tickets for our original Carnival event will be refunded.

This is a historic moment for our POC and queer community in Chicago to make our presence and voice known on North Halsted, with two of your favorite queer collectives giving you a stage with incredible production, full stage design, DJs, dancers, surprise performers, and more. Spread the news and help us make our mark on August 11. More details to come on this day to remember.

Olivia Newton John

OlivaNewtonJohn

Dame Olivia Newton-John AC DBE (26 September 1948 – 8 August 2022) was a British and Australian singer, actress and activist. She was a four-time Grammy Award winner whose music career included 15 top-ten singles, including 5 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100  and two number-one albums on the Billboard 200: If You Love Me, Let Me Know (1974) and Have You Never Been Mellow (1975). Eleven of her singles (including two Platinum) and 14 of her albums (including two Platinum and four 2× Platinum) have been certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

In 1978, Newton-John starred in the musical film Grease, which was the highest-grossing musical film at the time and whose soundtrack remains one of the world’s best-selling albums. It features two major hit duets with co-star John Travolta: “You’re the One That I Want”—which is one of the best-selling singles of all time—and “Summer Nights”. Her signature solo recordings include the Record of the Year Grammy winner “I Honestly Love You” (1974) and “Physical” (1981)—Billboard’s highest-ranking Hot 100 single of the 1980s. Other defining hit singles include “If Not for You” and “Banks of the Ohio” (both 1971), “Let Me Be There” (1973), “If You Love Me (Let Me Know)” (1974), “Have You Never Been Mellow” (1975), “Sam” (1977), “Hopelessly Devoted to You” (1978; also from Grease), “A Little More Love” (1978), “Twist of Fate” (1983) and, from the 1980 film Xanadu, “Magic” and “Xanadu” (with the Electric Light Orchestra).

With global sales of more than 100 million records, Newton-John established herself as one of the best-selling music artists of all time.[5]

Newton-John, who battled breast cancer three times, was an advocate and sponsor for breast cancer research. In 2012, the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre opened in her home town of Melbourne.  She also was an activist for environmental and animal rights causes.

Olivia Love

Olivia Love

A multi-instrumental singer/songwriter, music has taken Olivia Love all over the world, and she’s performed in France, Portugal, England, Ecuador and China as well as many parts of the Midwest. Her music is an outlet through which she reckons with love, loss, and mental health. Her hope in releasing it is that it resonates with other people like her, and that they in turn find it a little easier to love themselves. Her first single, Lean Into It, is a celebration of queer love and navigating the emotional quagmire that is bisexual dating. Melancholy folk rock? Alt-saloon? Genre yet unknown.

Mýa

Mya

Grammy Award-Winning Recording Artist, Mýa, celebrates 23 years as an internationally known, singer, songwriter, producer, dancer/choreographer, actor, activist, and philanthropist. A young 18-year-old when she released her self-titled, double-platinum debut, Mýa was no stranger to the stage with piano lessons at 5, violin and orchestra, and gospel choir throughout her grade school years, studying many styles of dance and acting in several plays, which were all in preparation for her big break in the entertainment business.

In 2021, Mýa is still going strong, running her own independent record label Planet 9 for 13 years, as she completes her 14th & 15th music projects, two films, and an audiobook catered to those looking to transition to a healthy, vegan lifestyle. All of her new music projects are available on all digital and streaming outlets worldwide and viewable at www.myamya.com. On February 26, the independent action film “Lazarus” debuted on Fox’s new streaming platform Tubi, in which Mýa plays a psychic, also appearing on its soundtrack. On March 27, Mýa celebrates the 20th Anniversary of her international collaboration hit “Lady Marmalade” with her peers Christina Aguilera, Pink, Lil’ Kim, and Missy. In June, Mya partnered with Verizon and Visa for the virtual “Songs & Stories” live performance series with Looped Live. Mýa also made appearances on Disney’s Atlantis: Lost Empire Animation’s 20th Anniversary Celebration Live Stream as a guest speaker, Mercy For Animals’ Hope Gala as a presenter, and DJ Cassidy’s “Pass the Mic” as performer serving summer nostalgia with Beenie Man and their international hit “Girls Dem Suga” BET Awards weekend. On July 2nd, Mya returns with a fresh, new sound as MÝA LAN$KY documenting the struggle and reward of being an independent thinker and doer on her first rap single “Worth It” spitting conscious, meaningful bars as the boss of her own life, body, mind, spirit, decisions and independent record label. With 2 completed albums on the way, Mýa shares her excitement about her new upcoming music…

She says, “‘Worth It’ is in essence about the reward at the end of the tunnel after a long journey of centering self and finding your own voice in a world of noise and chaos, holding onto faith for the fight to continue, alongside the relentless grind, mental, physical and spiritual conditioning and sacrifice necessary to not only survive on the road less traveled to ownership, but to thrive with victory and glory on the other side. Though it hasn’t been easy, it has truly been an educational and rewarding journey these past 23 years in entertainment. I am truly grateful for every experience, encounter, and individual who has been a part of this ride. My passion & love for music has never been greater and the best of me has yet to come with the intention to inspire.”

Molly Farrelly

Molly Farrelly

Molly Farrelly is a Chicago based international performer. She specializes in Soul and Jazz and has a background in improvisation and cabaret. Molly performs all over Chicago and just came back from her first tour in Puerto Vallarta Mexico! No show is ever too big (or too small) for Molly 😉

Molly and Alex

Alex and Molly
Too Much Molly Band is made up of 3 ridiculous Chicago based musicians. The over the top Molly Callinan (Catfight, Rock Candy, Lt. Dan Band), musical theatre’s own friend of Dorothy Alex Newkirk (Trulucks and a Vincent Restaurants, Crooners Cabaret), and Caitlin “Sequins” Simone (Ken Arlen Evolution Orchestra, Shy Violet). Come hear some great songs (and a couple shitty ones), and some mediocre banter. You won’t regret it! (YOU WILL).