JORDY

Jordy

Through dynamic, diverse, and diaristic songwriting, JORDY amplifies the back-and-forth of his internal conversation as loudly as possible. Penning plainspoken lyrics and belting them with no shortage of personality, he ponders what to say to a crush, the ups and downs of mental health, the trials and tribulations of being a third wheel, the inevitability of getting older, and why it’s okay to move on. In 2018, he broke through with the independent single “Just Friends,” tallying 18+ Spotify and counting.

He maintained his momentum with “Close To You,” reeling in another 13+ million streams. His 2021 full-length debut, Mind Games, spawned the relatable “Long Distance,” which lit up TikTok. In its wake, he made his television debut with a showstopping performance on The TODAY Show and later earned a nomination at the iHeartRadio Music Awards in the “Social Star” category. In 2022, he also graced the stages of Lollapalooza, BottleRock Napa Valley, Washashore Festival in Provincetown, MA, and various Pride performances across the U.S. – culminating with a sold-out show at LA’s famed Troubadour at the end of the year. Piling up north of 100 million streams and earning acclaim from Rolling Stone, PAPER, Billboard, People, The Huffington Post, Consequence of Sound, and more, JORDY holds nothing back on his second full-length album, BOY [out Friday, 4/21 via Elektra Entertainment]. He initially heralded the album with a trio of standouts songs in 2022 – “Dry Spell,” “IDK SH!T,” and “i get high.” BOY’s lead single “Story of a Boy” flips the story and sound of a familiar anthem—Nine Days’ “Story of a Girl”—with a fresh, fiery, and inclusive spirit that hints at much more to come. Ahead of BOY’s release, JORDY also scored a nomination at the 34th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in the “Outstanding Breakthrough Music Artist” category – underscoring a bright future ahead.

Grag Queen

Grag Queen

There’s a new Queen in town! – If you were lucky enough to watch Queen of the Universe then you’re well aware that on the season’s finale 26-year-old Grag Queen was crowned the first winner of the competition.

The Brazilian singer wowed audiences with her show stopping performances of Andra Day’s “Rise Up” and Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” among others. Grag was thrilled with her victory. “I feel SO accomplished! This award symbolizes a dream come true. I am sure my family and my country are proud of me.”  She’s been lauded by fellow singing Queens Alaska Thunderfuckwho said, “Grag is one of the most technically skilled singers out there, but it’s her stage presence, sense of humor, and charisma that make her an absolute superstar.”  Trixie Mattel added, “She’s a star before the song even starts, and then when she begins singing – it’s over bitch.”

A staunch supporter of the LGBTQ community in Brasil, Grag – born Gregory Mohd – she’s very well-aware of how many young people are afraid to come out to be their true selves. “We live in a country that kills LGBTQ people more than any other, and our transgender people’s [life expectancy] is only 35 years old and it’s not fair. We are still trying to find some place of peace….I really want to use this platform to make people know that this situation is crazy and it’s real.”

Heather Small

Heather Small

As Part of M People, hits such as ‘Moving On Up’, ‘One Night In Heaven’ and ‘Search For The Hero’ and albums like Elegant Slumming, Bizarre Fruit and Fresco achieving massive worldwide success, Heather became one of the seminal British voices of the 1990s, with the band winning the Best British Dance Act Award at the Brits in 1994 and 1995, as well as the Mercury Music Prize for Elegant Slumming.

Heather has since had great successes with two solo albums – the title track of her ‘Proud’ album has gone on to become the soundtrack to a whole host of very special events including London’s successful 2012 Olympic bid, the 60th anniversary of VE Day in Trafalgar Square, the launch of Queen Mary 2, the Tsunami Relief Concert, England’s victory at the Rugby World Cup celebrations, and the official ceremony marking the handover of the Olympic Games from Beijing to London.

Frenchie Davis

FrenchieDavis

Frenchie can thank the smash hit NBC TV show “The Voice” for which she became a finalist, along with the hit Fox TV show “American Idol”, as they both gave her the platform for the world to take notice of this powerhouse DIVA that was born to SING!

Frenchie has severeal types of shows she can do, depending on what the situation calls for. She can do a track show, band show, and an acoustic show with her guitar player.

She left the show and went on to star in the touring road show of Dreamgirls, and recently ended a 4 year run starring in the hit “broadway” musical called RENT.

Frenchie recently finished a nationwide tour across the USA with her American Idol co-star (from season two) her friend, Ruben Studdard. She co-starred in the 30th Ann. award winning braodway play called “Ain’t Misbehavin” in the the role that won Nell Carter a Tony Award. Frenchie also received a “Grammy nonimation” (09) for the show recording.

Frenchie recorded a very hot “cover” of the million selling hit song by Shannon called, “Give Me Tonight” which went to #17 on the Billboard Dance Charts.

Frenchie had a smash hit song called “You Are” with the “legandary” DJ/Producer Tony Moran which went to #5 on the Billboard Dance Charts.

Frenchie recorded an amazing cover song called “Sweet Dreams” (made famous by La Bouche). Available on iTunes.

When Frenchie performs, she loves to throw in a few songs that everybody knows and loves like, “Born This Way”, “Crazy”, “Wanna Dance With Somebody”, “Sweet Dreams”, the dance classic “When Love Takes Over” along with “Like A Prayer” (which she performed on “The Voice”) as well as her recent debut single and video called, “Love’s Got A Hold On Me”.

The song features remixes by Dave Aude, Laszlo, Itay Kalderone, KlubJumpers, Rafael M. and DJ Tony Marinos. The video for “Love’s Got A Hold On Me” was directed by Brian Friedman (Britney, X-factor, So You Think You Can Dance.)

Frenchie is currently recording several more songs with some amazing people, and gathering songs for her long awaited debut album titled “Just Frenchie” to be released in Spring 2016.

Frenchie lives in New York, NY.

Eureka O’Hara

EurekaOhara

Eureka competed on RuPaul’s Drag Race seasons nine and ten as well as Drag Race All Stars season six. They’ve appeared on Netflix’s AJ and the Queen, Ryan Murphy’s American Horror Story, and the Emmy-nominated HBO docuseries We’re Here.

They performed in the Vegas residency Drag Race Live, starred in the stage production Women Behind Bars in the role originally played by their idol Divine, and released music as a singer/songwriter. Growing up a poor country child in East Tennessee raised by a single mother, Eureka is living their dream out loud as the six-foot-four (without heels) plus-size drag superstar of the world!

Ethan Cole

Ethan Cole

Originally from Southern California, Ethan has always had a passion for music. His journey began spinning house tracks with vintage vinyl records on an old Technics system in a Southern California dive bar. As his love and passion for house music began to evolve, he started producing his own original tracks and official remixes. Major influences such as Nina Flowers, Ralphi Rosario, Bodhi Calagna, and Honey Dijon have helped mold his dynamic style. Now residing in Lakeview Chicago, his mixing of a wide and diverse range of house music gives him the ability to rock different crowds all over the city.

Most recently Ethan has created a new weekly house music night at Hydrate Nightclub called House Collective. This is a permanent residency every Sunday night. He is also a resident with Organized Grime. He continues to land bookings such as Chicago Pride, Chicago Pridefest, Market Days Chicago, IML Chicago, Milwaukee Pride, various Tea Dances, and private after-hours events. His ability to mix upbeat progressive house to deep house and tech house has given him the ability to play different venues all over the city.

INSTAGRAM
SOUNDCLOUD

Dom Brown

Dom Brown

After 10 years in the industry, I have pivoted from being on the stage to being an authority in the branding and consulting space.  Using an “Ear to the ground” approach I have continued to lead the charge for exciting, innovative, and sometimes outlandish brands.  With a passion for developing Iconic, mainstays my process is designed to empower your team to not only think outside of the box but to take hold of your brand and success.

From creating the identity of some of Chicago’s most popular brands to connecting communities to beneficial opportunities, my method has proven to be creative, trustworthy, avantgarde, and exciting.

My services include a comprehensive consultation to help identify gaps and opportunities, a comprehensive report that includes a project plan with timelines and milestones, a cost analysis, and a schedule. That’s how I ensure your success and why you can count on Dom Brown.

Don’t Speak

DontSpeak

Don’t Speak: A No Doubt Tribute is a full-band experience with keyboards & horns performing hits from the entire No Doubt repertoire – an energetic & dynamic performance that provides hours of live musical entertainment.

Dorian Electra

Dorian Electra

Pop music agitator Dorian Electra makes music that is unbound by genre. Since the 2019 release of their acclaimed debut album Flamboyant, which Interview Magazine called a “pop magnum opus,” Electra has gained an intense cult following around the globe, that has been fueled by considerable critical support from places like Pitchfork, Billboard, PAPER, FADER, Gay Times, The Guardian, the New York Times, The Atlantic, and more.

People, Pussy Riot, Rebecca Black, S3RL, 645AR, and more and having been dubbed an “experimental pop figurehead,” Electra’s music blends together a masterful assortment of genres, including hardcore, metal, medieval, epic baroque, dubstep, and pop and again displays why people are calling Electra’s work “the future.”

In August 2021, Dorian Electra announced their My Agenda Live World Tour 2022, and the Deluxe edition of My Agenda which includes new original tracks and multiple remixes with features from Danny Brown, Kero Kero Bonito, Savage Ga$p, and ElyOtto.

Dyllón Burnside

Dyllon Burnside

A multi-hyphenate performer, songwriter and creator, Dyllón Burnside is best known to audiences for his starring role as ‘Ricky’ on FX and Ryan Murphy’s Emmy nominated FX series, “Pose.” He recently starred in AMERICAN HORROR STORIES and will confidentially next been in Ryan Murphy’s Netflix limited series MONSTER, opposite Evan Peters.

Dyllón first captivated audiences with his Broadway debut, starring in 2014’s Holler if Ya Hear Me, a hip-hop musical inspired by the music and lyrics of Tupac Shakur. He most recently starred in the Broadway production of Thoughts of a Colored Man.

The Pensacola, Florida native began performing professionally at the age of 12 as a member of the Hip-Hop/R&B boy band 3D. He has toured the country performing original music alongside folks like Stevie Wonder and Rihanna in such venues as Madison Square Garden and the Nokia Theater. Burnside has performed at the US Opens Men’s final as well as headlined and produced a sold-out benefit concert for GLSEN at the Cutting Room in New York City. He has released 2 singles ‘Heaven’ and ‘Silence’ both of which gained momentum on R&B charts. He is currently in the process of putting out his first EP.

In addition to his performance work, Burnside is also passionate about producing quality arts content that promotes social change. His work as a producer includes film, theatrical and musical events that serve and/or shed light on marginalized communities. He has been honored by GLAAD and the Human Rights Campaign for his continuing dedication to LGBTQ+ rights. Dyllón hosted “Prideland,” a one-hour special and short-form digital series for PBS that received a GLAAD Award nomination and won the Emmy award for Outstanding Short Form Daytime Non-Fiction Program.

DJ Diox

DJDiox

Diox is a 20-year young in-demand touring DJ from the suburbs of Chicago. It didn’t take much for Diox to fall in love with mixing, as music has always been a part of his life. Nevertheless, he always puts forth a unique & unpredictable blend of house, dutch, electro, & trance. His biggest Influences include Kaskade, Afrojack, Calvin Harris, Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, Sidney Samson, Chuckie, Dada Life, & Tiesto. Currently attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he definitely knows how to blend sounds of the college life with that of the club life. Not only that, he has been attending and following festivals since 2009, from Lollapalooza, to Ultra Music Festival to Electric Daisy Carnival to Sensation White. College Sound + Club Sound + Festival Sound = DIOX. Don’t miss any opportunity to see him.

DJ Martin

DJMartin

Originally from Los Angeles, Martin has had a love for DJing since the early 2000’s collecting many CD’s, Vinyl records and MP3’s along the way. Martin made the move to Chicago in 2013 he has been working service at Hydrate night club since 2014 and as a DJ at Replay Lakeview since 2018. Throughout that time Martin has been able to share his open-format DJ style to many different venues and events in Chicago becoming a resident at local bars; Replay Beer & Bourbon, Barcocina, Progress Bar, Splash, and Atmosphere Bar. His gift of being able to blend old school classics with top records of today and every genre/era in-between has afforded him the opportunity to perform at some of Chicago’s most popular events, including Pride Fest, which he is “crazy amped” to play for. See you there.

DJ Vlad

DJVLAD

Now, as a practicing commercial litigation attorney, Vlad has been the open-format Resident DJ at D.S. Tequila on Saturday nights since 2016, when he helped start #DSLate. Vlad is also a monthly resident at Electric Hotel, ROCBAR, and Uproar in River North.  DJ Vlad has performed at venues all over the city, including Scarlet, ProgressBar, Splash, LIQRBOX, The River Kitchen and Bar, Old Crow Wrigleyville, Clutch Bar, Happy’s Bamboo Bar & Lounge, Maxbar, Play Chicago Kitchen & Cocktails, HVAC Pub, Tavern on Rush, Whiskey Sky (W Chicago Rooftop), Bar Umbriago, Newport Bar and Grill, and many others.

By fifteen, Vlad’s DJ business had grown, and he founded his first mobile DJ company, employing a staff of DJs, dancers, event coordinators, and audio/visual technicians. Vlad trained several young, aspiring DJs and held mixing and dancing workshops for entertainers and emcees. Before graduating from high school, Vlad’s company was performing at over 50 shows per year, from corporate events, weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, to high school dances, fundraisers, and local social events. In addition, DJ Vlad was booked at 17+ and 18+ club events, including several performances at the Warehouse nightclub and pop-up events such as Raver’s Fantasy, Club 500, and Existence.

In college, as tailgate chair of his fraternity, Vlad revolutionized the tailgate scene at Indiana University by putting on a complete performance on the grassy tailgate fields across from the stadium, with a generator, speakers, lights, and a live DJ. Soon, all of the other fraternities began putting on performances of their own. Shortly thereafter, Vlad landed his first residency as the Friday night headliner at Brothers Bar & Grill.

DJ Metro

Dj Metro

A force to be reckoned within the club scene, DJ Metro is undoubtedly one of the most respected DJ’s to come out of Chicago.

Since the age of 8, Metro has always had a special love for being a DJ, and has dedicated more than 15 years to trying to become known as of the best in nation. Not only has he climbed his way into being one of the most respected club/live DJ’s, he’s also making his mark on his second love. Chicago Radio. “Being apart of just any DJ mix show was never the goal or objective. Being a part of THIS DJ team, on B96, with THIS group of DJ’s, was always the goal. Now we just have to be patient and see what’s next”

His patience has clearly paid off. As of October 2014, Metro was asked to come on board with none other, then the Chicago Bulls. Every home game, in front 25,000 people inside of the United Center, you can see Metro behind the turntables playing music for people of all races and backgrounds, as the “Official Chicago Bulls DJ.”

DJ Metro has supported and shared the bill with all types of international acts such as Rick Ross, Juicy J, Lil John, Ariana Grande, Pitbull, Justin Bieber, Afrojack, Aventura, Wisin Y Yandel, and recently played at the United Center for Sade and John Legends personal parties. He has played around the nation from Alaska to Florida, and recently won an Ortofon DJ Battle sending him to Ibiza, Spain. On an every week basis, he plays at all types of clubs, spanning from the largest College Nightclub in the city, the largest teen clubs, and some of the sexiest Industry Nights in Downtown.

As you can clearly see, this is only the beginning of what looks to be a very long career for the Chicago native. Plans of working on his own production, plus expanding his nightclub residency in clubs around the nation, have already begun.

DJ Ca$h Era

DJ Ca$h Era
A lover of community, connection, and all things Chicago, CaSera Heining, best known as DJ Ca$h Era, continues to shake the room as a multifaceted, internationally recognized, performer. With over 10 years of professional experience, DJ Ca$h Era’s open-format and masterful mixing style has captivated crowds at a large variety of spaces such as nightclubs, bars, music festivals, private events, corporate galas, weddings, and much more.

Winning the title of Chicago’s Best Hip-Hop DJ since 2021 by the Chicago Reader; DJ Ca$h Era is also one of the Official Atrium and Concourse DJs for the Chicago Bulls, member of the Jordan Brand’s Global Women’s Collective, and current preferred and resident DJ for Chicago’s hottest venues like Broken Shaker, Scarlet Bar, The Promontory, Soho House, and more. DJ Ca$h Era has worked with notable brands including Jordan, Nike, BET, Adidas, Beats by Dre, AT&T, Jugrnaut, and more.

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
SOUNDCLOUD
YOUTUBE

VJ Bryan

VJ BRYAN

VJ Bryan honed his video and music mixing skills at a young age making mix CDs for friends, working at a video store as a teenager and studying video production in college. He started VJing at Northalsted bars like SPIN & Roscoe’s, and now works exclusively in the booth at Sidetrack The Video Bar. Bryan also is please to VJ the annual Equality Illinois Gala and to DJ private and corporate events. He has had the great pleasure of working in the booth with many pop stars like Erasure’s Andy Bell, Cazwell, Leona Lewis, JoJo, Kid Sister, Kim Petras and more.

VJ Bryan is pleased to return to the Pride Fest DJ Stage to play a mix of pop favorites and current hits with entertainment from Sidetrack Divas Zamora Love & Sapphire Feliciano. Check him out spinning the dance floor at Sidetrack, VJing Sidetrack’s All Things Diva Wednesday nights as well as rotating as one of Sidetrack’s Show Tunes VJs on Fridays, Sundays & Mondays.

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK

Debbie Gibson

Debbie Gibson

Debbie Gibson burst onto the music scene at 16 and instantly became the youngest artist in history to write, produce and perform a number one hit, “Foolish Beat.” She is still the youngest female and has held the world record for over three decades. Gibson has sold more than 16 million albums and has starred in 17 musicals in 17 years, from Broadway’s Les Miserables to the West End’s Grease. In 2019, Gibson launched her SiriusXM radio show, “Debbie Gibson’s Mixtape,” on The Blend and joined NKOTB on The Mixtape Arena Tour. Later that year, she also served as a celebrity judge on Nickelodeon’s “America’s Most Musical Family.” In 2020, her single “Girls Night Out” soared to No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard and U.K. MusicWeek charts. Her guest starring role in the musical episode of “Lucifer” debuted May 28, 2021, on Netflix.

This summer, Gibson filmed “The Class” with Anthony Michael Hall and Charlie Gillespie. Gibson’s new duet of “Lost in Your Eyes” featuring Joey McIntyre, was released June 4, her new single “One Step Closer” was released July 16, and her first pop album in 20 years, The Body Remembers, was released August 20 on her own label Stargirl Records. She brings “Debbie Gibson & Joey McIntyre Live from Las Vegas” to The Sands Showroom inside The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas for a limited engagement in August and September. From No. 1 hits and platinum albums to starring roles on stage and screen, Debbie Gibson is a true entertainer with timeless talent and charisma.

Cookiee Kawaii

Cookiee Kawaii

Cookiee Kawaii became known outside New Jersey with the jittering, mattress squeaking club track “Vibe,” which went viral in 2019 and became even more popular the next year with TikTok users. Unrestricted by genre, the vocalist’s stylistic range cuts across Jersey club, R&B, and rap. The daughter of house DJs, Vanice Palmer was born into music and has been recording since the early 2010s. After she adopted her stage name, a display of her love for sweets and anime, the proudly queer artist has peeked above the underground New Jersey scene and now reaches club/dance fans across the globe.

 

Chomper

Chomper

DJ of EDM, House, and Groove.

Carlito Olivero

Carlito

27 year-old, Carlito Emmanuel Olivero hails from the windy city of Chicago, Illinois. Growing up in a household of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent, his parents have always aspired to share with their 3 children the rich history of song and dance engrained deep in their Latino roots. As far back as he can remember music has not only been an undying passion, but an essential part of his existence.

The bilingual artist has been performing in English and Spanish since the young age of 5, pursuing his life’s intention of changing the world through his love of music. In 2007 responding to a Craigslist ad, Carlito auditioned for a lead vocalist role for the Latin Pop group Menudo. Later that year, an MTV reality television series titled Making Menudo premiered with 15 contestants competing to land a slot in the new band.

Besides a return to the original name, this 2007 lineup would be the first to live under the new age cap of 20. Carlito Olivero, along with 4 other latin hopefuls were formed as the new Menudo with an album planned for release in the fall. Signed to Sony Music, the group toured in support of their debut singles “Lost” and “More Than Words”.

The group disbanded the following year and Carlito relocated to Los Angeles to continue to pursue his singing career and move into the acting arena. Upon his arrival to Los Angeles, Carlito was tapped as a lead in Mario Van Peebles directed teen based film entitled “We The Party” (released 2012) and a year later in 2013 auditioned for the Hit TV show “X Factor” on fox. Ending the competition as a TOP 3 finalist and becoming one of the first latino contestants to ever participate on the show, Carlito has walked away with fans hearts worldwide.

With a lead role on HULU original series East Los High Season 3 & 4 along with 2 major films hitting theaters everywhere in 2017, Carlito is continuing to grow on both his acting and songwriting skills while collaborating with numerous industry pros. His first album released July 16, 2015 “Dreams Don’t Become Reality While Sleeping” now we wait anxiously for the release of his 2nd album “V2” scheduled to drop mid 2017. Carlito’s Urban based Rhythmic Pop flavored with occasional Spanish language have created a unique sound which sets him apart from the male vocalists in the current pop/r&b landscape.

Brooke Eden

BrookeEden

Lauded for her commanding stage presence and brassy straight-shooting style, vocal powerhouse Brooke Eden flaunts a sassy flare in her trio of new songs that vulnerably detail her journey to love. Championed by Billboard as a “fiery country star-in-the-making,” Eden pairs her honest songwriting with punchy tracks from producer Jesse Frasure (Thomas Rhett, Florida Georgia Like, Little Big Town) to deliver her most authentic work yet.  Coupled with a trilogy of music videos that illustrate Brooke’s own path towards loving honestly, Eden confidently shares her romantic optimism and warmth, while sharing the joys of summer all year long.  With over 40 million on-demand streams already, Eden has garnered new critical acclaim with her trilogy of new tracks.  According to Rolling Stone, “with its loping banjo figure and some rhythmic swagger, … ‘No Shade’ is something to make you count the days until spring arrives.” Following with the release of “Sunroof,” Billboard says, “The breezy video, featuring Eden with her real-life girlfriend, feels as liberating, warm and lovely as the song itself.”  The music video for “Sunroof” almost instantaneously shot to the top of iTunes’ all genre chart and was viewed over 6 million times in its first week alone, leading to the video being nominated for the CMT Awards Best Family Feature of 2021.  Gay Times calls Eden the “queer country superstar we need and deserve,” as Eden actively strives to celebrate all forms of love within the Country genre.  The highly anticipated conclusion to her trilogy, “Got No Choice,” premiered on CMT’s Hot 20 in North America and was featured on the Viacom billboard in Times Square, prompting them. to state, “Eden has literally and metaphorically come into full control of her life in the county music scene,” and MTV News to declare, “Her bliss bleeds into every resonant, twangy note she sings.  It’s Infectious.”   For more information, visit Brooke Eden’s website at www.brookeeden.com, or follow her on any social platform, @brookeedenmusic.

Blake Lewis

Blake Lewis

Blake Lewis first came to national attention as one of the most unique contestants ever to compete on American Idol, and long before that, as a teenager, he was well-known as “Bshorty” in Seattle’s a cappella, hip-hop, and rave scenes. But with the release of his ambitious and completely independent third album, Portrait of a Chameleon, Blake is taking things to a whole new level.

The follow-up to the critically acclaimed Audio Day Dream (which sold 350,000 copies and spawned the top 40 single “Break Anotha”) and Heartbreak on Vinyl (the title track of which went to #1 twice on Billboard’s dance charts), Portrait of a Chameleon is “fun, sexy, and positive. I’d call it ‘future pop,'” says Blake. “Across the album, I juxtapose so many different kinds of music. It’s very anthemic, and there’s an epic feel. The album metaphor has to do with finding our colors, as we are all chameleons. I’m standing out on the cover because I’ve found mine. I will always continue to stretch the boundaries of the human voice and create the music that colors my life.”

Using Blake’s own painstakingly handcrafted library of sampled mouth sounds (“beatboxing, sound effects, vocal scratching, the works”) as its foundation, Portrait of a Chameleon runs the gamut from the reggae-tinged Nick Hexum co-write “She Gives Me Her Love” to the horn-laden funky-freshness of “Disco in Space,” from the sexy slow-jam “Lost in Heaven” to the poignant life-on-the-fringe cautionary tale “Not Today,” the latter inspired by Blake’s mother, whom he considers his main inspiration. The album also features the hard-hitting, bass-in-your-face “Your Touch,” the soundtrack to 2013’s Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 campaign — which starred Blake, played on more than 19,000 theater screens across the U.S., received more than 1.2 billion impressions, and has already sold 130,000 copies worldwide.

But perhaps the centerpiece of Portrait is the ’80s-tastic pop epic “Retro Romance.” A sonic sequel of sorts to “Heartbreak on Vinyl,” the frothy, feelgood ode to a Jordache-clad dreamgirl with “Suzanne Somers thighs” sounds like a final-love-scene song on a John Hughes soundtrack — meaning, of course, that it sounds totally awesome. “Duran Duran, the Cure, Depeche Mode, Prince, and Michael Jackson were always playing when I was growing up, on CD or on vinyl,” Blake says fondly of his proud ’80s influences.

However, Portrait of a Chameleon — out on Blake’s on Audio Day Dream Records and distributed through InGrooves — still has a hypermodern feel, and Blake is looking ahead, hoping that his “future pop” will connect with fans of all ages. “So here we go/A chance to start again/The melody is calling me/There’s no time to pretend,” he boldly declares in the album’s opening track.

“I never wanted to stick to one style or stay in one place,” Blake stresses. “And I haven’t been more proud of anything in my life than this album.”

“Blake Lewis is such an amazing talent, and Portrait of a Chameleon really delivers on showcasing all his skill and artistry.” — Ken Jordan, The Crystal Method

“Blake is a super-soulful and creative dude. We had a lot of fun writing ‘She Gives Me Her Love.’ Great vocal and beats.” — Nick Hexum, 311

Billy Porter

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is an American Broadway theater performer, singer, and actor. He attended the Musical Theater program at Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts School’s School of Drama, graduated from Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama, and achieved fame performing on Broadway before starting a solo career as a singer and actor.

Porter won the 2013 Best Actor in a Musical for his role as Lola in Kinky Boots at the 67th Tony Awards. He credits the part for “cracking open” his feminine side to confront toxic masculinity. For the role, Porter also won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical and Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical. In 2014 Porter won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album for Kinky Boots. He currently stars in the television series Pose for which he was nominated for a Golden Globe Award and won the 2019 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, becoming the first openly gay black man to be nominated and win in any lead acting category at the Primetime Emmys.

Bev Rage & the Drinks

Bev Rage Feature

Bev Rage & the Drinks are a loud, fast, and brash queer garage-pop band from Chicago. Fronted by guitarist Beverly Rage, a 7- foot tall drag queen with hair and heels, the band is known for their riveting live show of all original songs. Pulling inspiration from new-wave, post-punk, and grunge, Bev & the Drinks have been entertaining stages across the country since 2016. Rounding out the band are Sam Westerling (bass and vocals), Mary Rose Gonzales (drums), and Dan Jarvis (lead guitar and vocals).

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
SPOTIFY
YOUTUBE

Belinda Carlisle

BelindaCarlisle

Early career and The Go-Go’s
Belinda Carlisle’s first venture into music was a brief stint as drummer for the punk band The Germs, under the name Dottie Danger, although illness (specifically mononucleosis) prevented her from ever performing with them live. Soon after leaving this band, she founded The Go-Go’s (originally named The Misfits), with friend and fellow music novice Jane Wiedlin. With bassist-turned-guitarist Charlotte Caffey, guitarist-turned-bassist Kathy Valentine, and drummer Gina Schock, the Go-Go’s became one of the most successful American bands of the early 1980s, helping usher new wave music into popular American radio, and becoming the first all-female band in rock history to ever achieve a #1 album, who also wrote their own music, and played their own instruments. The Go-Go’s recorded two more studio albums (including 1982 Vacation, which went gold thanks to the title track). “Head over Heels,” from their 1984 album Talk Show, made it to #11, but they never repeated the success of their 1981 multi-platinum debut, Beauty and the Beat, which featured the hits “We Got the Beat” and “Our Lips Are Sealed”.

Belinda
The Go-Go’s broke up in 1985, and Carlisle embarked on a solo career (although she continued to work with fellow Go-Go Charlotte Caffey). Carlisle’s first album, Belinda, was released on I.R.S. Records, in 1986. This album was successful in North America and was certified Gold in the U.S. and Platinum in Canada. Her summer hit “Mad About You” peaked at #3 in the U.S. and topped the Canadian Singles Chart. “Mad About You” was followed by the Motown-influenced single “I Feel the Magic”, and by a cover version of the Freda Payne song “Band of Gold”. All three songs were included on her debut album. The single Since You’ve Gone was used only for promotion.
During this time, Carlisle also had songs featured on movie soundtracks, notably “In My Wildest Dreams” from the movie Mannequin, as well as “Dancing in the
City” from the Whoopi Goldberg movie Burglar.

Heaven on Earth
Belinda Carlisle changed her hairstyle significantly for her second solo album, giving up her California Girl blonde bob for a long auburn style for 1987’s Heaven on Earth. The musical style eschewed the 1960s-influenced pop of Carlisle’s first album in favor of slickly produced 1980s power-pop, and was released in the United States through MCA, and in the United Kingdom through Virgin. The album became a Top 5 bestseller in the UK and Australia, and was nominated for a Grammy Award. The album’s producer, Rick Nowels, previously worked with Stevie Nicks, and would later collaborate with Kim Wilde, Jennifer Rush and Madonna.

The first release from Heaven on Earth was “Heaven Is a Place on Earth”, which topped the single charts, not only in the U.S., but also in the UK and in several other countries (the dance mix of the song also topped the dance chart). The radio-ready song was further propelled by a video, directed by Academy Award-winning American actress Diane Keaton. The second single from the album was “I Get Weak”, which shot to #2 in the U.S. and #10 in the U.K. The song was written by Diane Warren. The third single from the album was “Circle in the Sand,” another Top 10 hit in the U.S., the UK, and Germany. “World Without You” was another British hit, followed by 1988 low-charting ballad “Love Never Dies”, making this her fifth single from the album in the UK. In the U.S., the fourth and last single, “I Feel Free,” a cover of the Cream classic, failed to reach the Top 40.

Runaway Horses
Carlisle’s follow-up to the success of Heaven on Earth was Runaway Horses, released on October 23, 1989. The album hit the Top 5 in both Australia and the UK, certified double platinum in Australia and platinum in the UK and in Canada, but failed to reach similar success in the U.S. The first release, “Leave a Light On”, peaked at #11 in the U.S., and became another Top 5 smash in the UK, Australia and Canada. The song features a slide guitar solo by George Harrison (see ‘Collaborations’). The second U.S. single, “Summer Rain”, reached #30 in early 1990. The song, which Carlisle noted was the most difficult song she had ever sung up to that point,[citation needed] peaked successfully at #6 in Australia, where it has maintained popularity, and the tune saw a cover version, in 2004, by the Australian group Slinkee Minx. It was the final release from Runaway Horses in the UK where it was released as the album’s sixth single in December 1990, peaking at #23 in January 1991. Whereas in the U.S. Carlisle’s success was decreasing, her popularity remained big in Europe and Australia. In 1990, further singles from the Runaway Horses album were successful as well: the title track, the summer mood influenced “La Luna”, a Top 10 in Switzerland and top 20 hit in Germany and Australia, and “(We Want) The Same Thing”, remixed from a country-styled release into a massive Pop hit, reaching #6 in the UK.

In the late Autumn of 1990, the Go-Go’s reunited for a tour to support their first best-of album, Greatest, including a new recording of the cover song “Cool Jerk” (Go-Go’s original cover featured on Vacation).

Live Your Life Be Free
In 1991, Belinda Carlisle released her fourth solo album, Live Your Life Be Free. The album marked somewhat of a return to 1960s-influenced music for Carlisle. The single “Do You Feel Like I Feel?” was accompanied by a tongue-in-cheek video, inspired by the B-movie Attack of the 50 Foot Woman. The title track, “Live Your Life Be Free”, merged 1960s influences with producer Rick Nowel’s trademark bombast, and featured a video that emphasized colorful imagery, fashion, and Carlisle’s photogenic face. Subsequent releases, “Half the World” and “Little Black Book”, were also hits outside the U.S., and although Live Your Life Be Free as an album flopped in the U.S., it was a success in Europe (Top 10 in the UK), while the title track was a Top 20 hit single in the UK, Australia, Italy and Sweden. To date, “Do You Feel Like I Feel?” is Carlisle’s final single to enter in the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at #73.

The Best of Belinda Vol.1
Still active in Europe and Australia with a record contract at Virgin Records, her 1992 greatest hits album, The Best of Belinda, Volume 1, reached #1, and was certified double platinum in both the UK and Australia. This first greatest hits album of her included all the hits taken from the Heaven on Earth, Runaway Horses, and Live Your Life Be Free albums, neglecting the ballad “Love Never Dies”, and the three I.R.S. singles from her first album; also, no movie-soundtrack songs appear on the collection. The US version of the Album was named “Her Greatest Hits” and included also songs from the first album Belinda.

Real
Belinda Carlisle’s fifth solo album, Real, was released in 1993, on the Virgin label, in the U.S. and in Europe. Produced without Nowels, the disc was a departure from Carlisle’s polished pop music formula. Even the album’s cover photograph featured her with very little make-up. Belinda Carlisle co-produced and co-wrote much of the disc, collaborating heavily with friend and former Go-Go’s member Charlotte Caffey. The album reached #9 in the UK, and its first single, “Big Scary Animal”, peaked at #12 in the UK. The second single from Real was “Lay Down Your Arms”, which made the Top 30 in the UK.
At this time, Belinda Carlisle also recorded “One by One”, on the soundtrack for the 1993 movie The Harvest.

The Go-Go’s reunited again, later that year, to support the retrospective double-CD Return to the Valley of the Go-Go’s, their second collection, which featured three new songs, including the single “The Whole World Lost Its Head”. However, the band broke up again, soon after the promotional tour

A Woman and a Man
Carlisle returned to the recording studio, and resumed working again with Rick Nowels. In 1996, she released in the UK and Australia her sixth solo album, A Woman and a Man, on the Chrysalis Records label. This album, consisting of mostly relaxed adult pop, revitalized her solo career in Europe, and included several hits. The leadoff single, “In Too Deep”, returned Carlisle to the UK Top 10, for the first time in six years, reaching #6. “Always Breaking My Heart”, written and produced by Roxette’s Per Gessle, also made the UK Top 10, peaking at #8. The album spawned two more UK hits: “Love in the Key of C”, and “California”. The album reached #12 in the UK, and was certified gold. As a result of A Woman and A Man’s UK success, the album was released in the U.S., during the Summer of 1997, on the small Ark21 label. Despite the recent successful comeback in Europe, and the promotional appearances Carlisle made on American television and radio, the album did not enjoy similar success in North America selling only 17’000 copies.In 1996, Carlisle recorded “I Wouldn’t Be Here (If I Didn’t Love You)” for the Two If by Sea official movie soundtrack. In 1997, she recorded “I Won’t Say (I’m in Love)”, from Walt Disney’s Hercules,

A Place on Earth – The Greatest Hits
In 1999, Carlisle released a greatest hits album in the UK, a double-disc on the Virgin label, collectively entitled A Place on Earth – The Greatest Hits. Carlisle recorded three new tracks for the album first disc, properly called The Greatest Hits, including the single “All God’s Children”, and the songs “A Prayer for Everyone” and “Feels Like I’ve Known You Forever”. The second disc of her greatest hits album, in fact entitled A Place on Earth, contained previously released remixes of some of her hits, plus a couple of B sides, which were previously unreleased at the time. Some of the remixes were by William Orbit, who also worked with Madonna on her 1998 Ray of Light album. The album was certified Gold in the UK and went on to sell an excess of 1 million copies worldwide.

Voilà
In 2007, the singer released her seventh album Voilà, which was her first full-length, solo studio album in more than ten years. The album was produced by John Reynolds. Consisting of a mix of French pop tunes and chanson standards, including covers of Françoise Hardy and Édith Piaf classics. Voilà was released via Rykodisc in the UK on February 5, and in the U.S. the following day, February 6, 2007. Carlisle was originally approached to make another pop rock album, but she declined immediately, in favor of recording this collection of songs, the style of which, she’d “absolutely fallen in love with” since moving to France in the early 1990

Bbymutha

Bbymutha

Famed for her myth-busting lyrics on sexuality, motherhood, and identity, Hailing from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and now based in Atlanta — rapper and vocalist bbymutha is one of underground hip hop’s most daring and admired talents.

Emerging with a series of self-released EP’s and singles, her track “Rules” went viral in 2017 and earned her praise from the likes of Erykah Badu, Björk, Earl Sweatshirt, SZA, Kehlani, actress Amandla Stenberg. While bbymutha fits into Southern rap’s legacy of originality via a refusal to conform to any coastal trends, choosing instead respective local flairs for self-expression and her non-apologetic attitude. The result is a soundscape all her own—a slow, ice-cool Chattanooga drawl rapping through the distorted and progressive production that gives her an artistic voice all her own — earning her spot on Pitchfork’s 10 Rappers to Watch 2019, Vibe’s Best Female Rap Albums of 2018, Pitchfork’s Best Rap Albums of 2018, & FACT Mag’s Rappers to Watch 2018.

She candidly blends her life experiences into hard-hitting raps — where she pointedly brandishes her sexuality in the face of respectability politics: unapologetically celebrating women for their ambition, savvy, sexuality, & sometimes vulgarity. Her sharp + provocative lyrics (openly sexual, feminist, & positive) are leisurely wrapped-around beats that are typically endemic to experimental and electronic corners of the internet.

Barker

Barker

Barker has always had music in his blood. Born and raised in Kenosha, Wisconsin, he was encouraged by his family to start his journey with music at age 10. With his mother maintaining a successful career as a pianist & recording artist with 15 studio albums, the prevalence and impact of music on his life can’t be understated. Starting with the saxophone, Barker developed his skills as a musician throughout his entire childhood, guided by many mentors & teachers in the areas of composing, jazz improvisation, and classical music theory. Putting those skills to work, he became a student at one of the highest regarded music conservatories in the country. There, he began to develop music production skills within Ableton before taking an extended break from music.

In 2015 after moving to Chicago where he now resides, he rediscovered his passion for music through his first exposure to EDM, and in 2019 began attending shows and festivals. Raver turned DJ & producer, you can now hear his unique house sound in his tracks across any streaming platform or catch him on the decks playing shows across the United States. With an approach to DJing that throws conventional single genre focus out the window, even the most hesitant dancers can’t help but get moving when Barker’s on stage.

Adam Barta

Adam Barta

Adam Steven Barta (born September 21, 1979) is an American actor, reality star, and musician from the Bronx, New York. He has had multiple charting singles on the Billboard dance chart, and is known for his duets and viral videos with reality stars and media personalities such as Alana Thompson (Honey Boo Boo) from Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, Farrah Abraham, Margaret Cho, Nadya Suleman (Octomom), Tan Mom and Jonah Falcon.

Barta is also known for his collaborations with artists like Kathy Sledge (of Sister Sledge) and music videos featuring comedic stars such as Lisa Lampanelli that often land him in the press on sites such as TMZ. In 2017, he starred on the WE tv series Dr. Miami. In 2018 he released a single called “Peep Me Tonight” with hip-hop star Mariahlynn from the TV series “Love and Hip Hop New York”.

In 2018 he also released the viral hit, “Free 2 Be Me” with “Tan Mom” Patricia Krentcil which Howard Stern called an “earworm” and “the greatest song of all time.” In December Howard announced the music video had hit over a half million views in the first few days, as one of their most viewed videos of all time.

Alaska Thunderf*ck

Alaska Thunderfck

A bizarre cosmic collision propelled Alaska to Earth…and onto the fifth season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” where she finished in the final 3 before returning and taking the crown as winner of season two of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.”

She has released three chart-topping studio albums, “Anus,” “Poundcake” and “Vagina” (available on iTunes), been a cast member of VH1’s hit reality series “Scared Famous,”released a young adult novel titled “Alaska Thunderfun and the Inner Space Odyssey” (part of the “Sickening Adventures” fiction series, available everywhere books are sold online), stars as Hattie in the short horror film “The Quiet Room” directed by Sam Wineman and toured the globe spreading her otherworldly message of love, kindness and gender non-conformity.

Alaska also co-hosts the wildly popular Race Chaser podcast with Willam and her Youtube videos boast over 60 million views with 15 million views alone (and counting) for 2017’s “The T.” She has over 1.7 million insta followers and over 1.1 million twitter & FB followers. Her message to humankind? “If you’re not wearing nails, you are not doing drag.”

Alex Newell

Alex Newell

The wildly talented Alex Newell is one of those brilliant artists with powerhouse vocals that comes around once in a lifetime. While best-known for his powerful performance as ‘Unique Adams’ on Fox’s “Glee,” Newell is now making headlines as he makes his Broadway debut in the revival of “Once On This Island,” which opened December 2017. Alex breaks barriers as ‘Asaka’ Mother of the Earth, which has traditionally been a female role. He steals the show with “Mama Will Provide” which New York Times says is “sung to rattle the roof by the ferocious Alex Newell”, and Entertainment Weekly raved “is a highlight and one of the show’s most memorable and most cheered moments.”

Newell was launched in to the national limelight in 2011 when he booked a guest role on Fox’s hit series, “Glee,” due to his success on the Oxygen competition series, “The Glee Project.” He won audiences over with his portrayal of transgender student, ‘Wade “Unique” Adams’ which ultimately secured him a series regular spot on the show.

Born in Salem, Massachusetts, Newell grew up in the small town of Lynn, just north of Boston. He notes that although his neighborhood was rough growing up, it was a melting pot of culture. He was exposed to dozens of different races, religions, and fine arts from a very young age, something that would help fine tune who he is today and what his career goals would be in the future. He found his love for music in church; his father was a deacon and his mother ran the choir. Every Sunday he would attend church and sing gospel songs with the choir. The styles of gospel music, dominant vocals blended with soul and the expression of personal beliefs were ingrained into Newell and he was able to start exploring and honing his talent. When Alex was six years old, his father passed away from cancer and he took refuge in song. By high school Newell had landed at a private Catholic academy with an impeccable arts program. It was here that he decided he knew what he wanted in life: to be a Broadway star, and to be on stage. He surrounded himself with music, and dedicated much of his life to concert choir – which was a crash course on every type of music he could think of. He dabbled in Opera, Jazz, A Capella, Chamber, Modern, and many other styles of music.

Newell learned from his work on “Glee” that perhaps his dreams of being on Broadway were not his only dreams, as his eyes were opened to the possibilities in television and in film. He has booked several projects over the years including two pilots, the independent feature, “Geography Club” (Huffington Pictures), and has performed in several theater productions. Alex is also signed to Atlantic Records. He released his EP, “POWER” and toured with Adam Lambert in February 2016, and his music was featured as a primary story point on HBO’s Martin Scorsese series “Vinyl”.

When not working, Alex loves to cook, shop, and has a passion for interior design. He also is a self-proclaimed YouTube addict. On the charity front, he supports the American Cancer Society, and is a role model and inspiration for LGBTQ teens worldwide. His personal goals include giving people motivation to be whoever they are, no matter how different, and to never change for anyone. He currently resides in New York City with his beloved dog, Nugget.

Alexis Tucci

Alexis Tucci

Alexis Tucci s a whole VIBE. Passionate and deeply committed to anything and everything dance music and a good time, this lil mama has done it all. But the one job carrying her to new global heights and gaining her international recognition, as well as her rapid US popularity in her 28 + year career, is that of the Disc Jockey.

Paired with more than 30 years experience as a successful rave, edm and nightlife promoter in the Midwest, this Saint Louis, Missouri native has withstood the test of time with her carefully curated sets and skillfully designed immersive underground events… currently recognized for her successful 9 year run with her event series Nightchaser and most recently receiving massive recognition for taking the LGBTQ+ community by storm with her fun loving, positive, community focused energy and  slamming disco and house sets! Coast to Coast, Alexis has been selling out shows in some of the biggest gay nightclubs and events in the country, and has become a staple on Fire Island  where she is often referred as Queen of Fire Island and mother. The latter a title she wears proudly.

 

Apollo X

Apollo X Cropped v

From playing sold out shows at some of the country’s most popular nightclubs with Artists like Drake, Diplo, and Ookay to playing star studded celebrity birthday parties for the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio & Toby Maguire to shutting down festival stages Apollo has quickly became a premier Open-Format Dj. By the time he was 20 Apollo had become Western Michigan Universities Game-Day DJ for their football team and was DJ’ing in Stadiums for 30K+ people, By the time he was 21 he was headlining some of Chicago’s premier nightclubs with his signature fusion of Hip-hop, funk, Electro, house, latin & rock. Currently Apollo plays upwards of 200+ sets a year and holds residencies at Underground Nightclub (Chicago), FWD (Cleveland) and Blind Dragon (Chicago/LA). Apollo has also caught the eye of corporate brands such as Leo Burnett, Red Bull & Windy City Live where he is a recurring guest DJ. Through these connections Apollo has been able to create a massive online and real life following of party goers and people who love good music and continues to crank out genre bending sets and music in the studio when working on productions.

Ariana and the Rose

ariana and the rose

 

ariana and the rose
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.

ariana and the rose 3

 

Ariana DJ

Ariana DJ

New to the scene but a veteran in the game, Ariana is a fashion model, entrepreneur, and our cities fastest growing DJ / Producer. She currently spins at a handful of Chicago’s hottest venues; such as Joy District, Replay, Progress, Wynwood, and others… Ariana’s vision to unify our diverse world through her music easily shows when you hear her live. She’s an open format DJ that infuses all genres of music in her sets, from hip hop, reggaeton to house and trap. Combined with seamless transitions and scratches, Ariana is candy for your ears and eyes all at once, and the energy she brings to the crowd is truly out of this world.

 

Avi Sic

Avi Sic
Avi Sic’s unique style has quickly gained the attention and respect of the entertainment field’s
elite. By effortlessly blending various genres and exercising discerning selection, she possesses

the versatility to handle a diverse range of music. She has shared the stage with the biggest names in the industry including Calvin Harris, Diplo, Kaskade, Joel Corry, Cardi B, Doja Cat, Lil Wayne, Flo Rida, Lil Jon, Icona Pop, and many others.

She hosts her own weekly show called ‘Late Checkout’ which is broadcast on over 60 radio stations worldwide, garnering 3 million weekly listeners. The Chainsmokers, Nicky Romero, Blond:ISH, Quintino, Ship Wrek, Wenzday, Mike Williams, EDX, MOTi, and more have been guests on her show. Avi is also the official concourse DJ for the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and works with other high profile brands such as Google, Nike, Red Bull, McDonald’s, AT&T, and ESPN. Her performances remain in demand and are truly authentic.

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
SOUNDCLOUD
SPOTIFY
YOUTUBE

7th Heaven

7thheaven

7th heaven is a Chicago, Illinois-based rock band created by guitarist Richie Hofherr, Tony Di Giulio, and Michael Mooshey. Formed in 1985, it has continued up to present day with changing band members. The band was named by co-founder Michael Mooshey in 1985. The band name “7th heaven” was coined after a line from the song “rock around the clock” By Bill Haley & His Comets. The line: “we’ll be right in 7th heaven”.

7th heaven has charted #1 on the Midwest Billboard Charts three times in the past three years. The band has been heard on over 7 radio stations in Chicagoland with their hits “This Is Where The Party’s At”, “Time Of Our Lives”, “Beautiful Life”, “Stoplight”, “Better This Way” and “Sing”. Also known for the famous “30 Songs in 30 Minutes” medley of songs from the ’70s and ’80s, 7th heaven has been an entertainment staple for 34 years. Playing an average 200 shows a year, with an average of 100 outdoor events, 7th heaven has earned the right to say, “We’ve seen a million faces and rocked them all!”

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.

Too Much Molly Band

molly topaz faceai sharpen enhance 2x

Popular with the LGBTQ+ community, Too Much Molly Band has played for multiple Pride events including North Halsted Market Days, Chicago Pridefest, Backlot Bash and Navy Pier Pride.  TMMB was the house band at Make a Wish Foundation’s annual charity gala with guest emcee John Stamos.  The band has played at House of Blues, corporate events, and we even do weddings!  

Too Much Molly Band covers everything from Lady Gaga to ACDC, Xanadu to Adele,  Rocky Horror to Britney. Come find out, can there be Too Much Molly?  Check out our Facebook or Instagram for our next gig.

SEE HOW WE ROLL! 

The Aces

Aces Digi Edits 18

In the years since The Aces released their acclaimed sophomore album, ‘Under My Influence’ in 2020, the band has been on a journey of self-discovery. Faced with the realities of a global pandemic, sisters Cristal and Alisa Ramirez (lead vocals/guitar and drums, respectively), Katie Henderson (lead guitar/vocals), and McKenna Petty (bass) used quarantine as a time to reflect, confronting personal mental health issues as well as processing experiences they’d had growing up together in Provo, Utah, as part of the Mormon church. When The Aces returned to the studio, their vision — and the honesty and trust between them — felt stronger than ever.

The result of this growth period is ‘I’ve Loved You For So Long,’ the band’s third LP. Written and executive-produced by the group (along with Keith Varon, the sole collaborator on the project), the album is a sparkling indie-rock record that’s by far their most personal and self-assured work to date. From tracks that ruminate on mental health and self-sabotage to searing anthems about love, longing, and heartbreak, ‘I’ve Love You For So Long’ is a record that’ll work its way into your head and heart — and will have you singing along all the way through. Out June 2nd.

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.

Sixteen Candles

Sixteen Candles 2024

Experience the nostalgia and energy of the greatest decade of music – the 1980’s!! Entertaining audiences since 2003, Sixteen Candles travels the country to bring 80’s music to life in full force for a memorable and exciting concert experience that you won’t soon forget.

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
YOUTUBE

Servin’ Fysh Dance Company

Servin Fysh 1

Servin’ Fysh Dance Company was created by The Amazing Gerald Willis in 2016 and have continued to be a safe haven for members of the LGBTQIA+ community along with all who may share the passion for dance. Allowing all of its members to be as free as they would please, we still aim to nurture and train dancers in styles varying from hip hop to even jazz. Through performance at events such as, including but not limited to, fashion shows, showcases, and video shoots we hope to spread our message of inclusivity as well as genuine positivity.

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
YOUTUBE

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!

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
SPOTIFY
YOUTUBE

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!

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.

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
YOUTUBE


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
YOUTUBE
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

INSTAGRAM
SOUNDCLOUD


Bussy Kween Power Trip

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

BUSSY KWEEN POWER TRIP

INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK


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

INSTAGRAM

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

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.”

Kristine W

KristineW

Kristine Elizabeth Weitz, widely known by her stage name Kristine W, is an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and entrepreneur. She is most widely known as a dance music artist. Born and raised in Pasco, Washington, she found early success competing in pageants and talent contests, winning Miss Washington and a preliminary swimsuit award as well as a NFT award in the Miss America pageant. Kristine W is now one of the most popular dance club artists of all time, with 17 #1s to date on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. She is currently listed among Billboard’s 8 Greatest of All Time Top Dance Club Artists, and she was ranked number three in Billboard’s Top Dance Artists of the Decade.  She is especially popular in the gay community and is an outspoken supporter of LGBT rights, frequently performing at pride rallies and charity events for pro-LGBT organizations throughout the U.S.

After competing in Miss America, Kristine W moved to Las Vegas, where she regularly performed at the Las Vegas Hilton and won “Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year” for several years. Kristine W was recognized by the city of Las Vegas for her record-breaking number of shows, which lead to June 28 being officially designated as Kristine W Day by the state of Nevada. Those performances lead to her first record deal and subsequent debut single, “Feel What You Want”, marking the singer’s first of 17 #1s on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. Kristine W is also tied for third place with Beyoncé for the most consecutive #1 hits with nine. In addition, her album The Power of Music is one of only three albums in the history of the chart to produce at least seven No. 1s from one album (Katy Perry’s Teenage Dream [2010] also had seven, and Rihanna’s Anti [2016] had eight).

Jaimie Wilson

Jaimie Wilson

Emerging in 2015 as his true self, Jaimie Wilson, better known as Tboy on Instagram, began to publicly document his medical and social transition, from being assigned female to becoming the authentic male he is. Being born into a very religious and conservative family, coming out as trans was anything but easy. Jaimie found that creating music helped him work through his emotions and talk about things that he might otherwise not be able to.  “I take these life experiences and put them all in my music, the good and the bad” Jaimie states in an interview with New York Times. He credits his loyal followers on both Instagram and TikTok for helping make his music dreams become his reality.

iPop

iPop Band promo pic (1)

For well over a decade, iPOP has been booked at festivals, clubs, corporate events, and weddings all across the Midwest. With an emphasis on variety, the band seamlessly transitions from genre to genre – from Top 40 favorites, to Classic Rock, to Country, to Hip-Hop, to 80’s & 90’s nostalgia – all performed with an engaging stage show!

iPop Band promo pic (1)
iPop Band

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

Inaya Day

Inaya Day

bio from swishcraftmusic.com

Whether it’s Hip Hop, R&B, Funk, or House music, she’s in there. You’ve heard her voice on Mousse T’s “HORNY”, on “NASTY GIRL”, and “KEEP PUSHIN”, but we must go on to mention a few others like, “I AM THA 1”, “STAND BY ME”, “GLAMOROUS LIFE”, “SHOUT IT OUT”, “MOVIN UP”, “BREAKAWAY”, & “NATURAL HIGH”. She’s had numerous UK, Aria, and Billboard top tens, (including 6 Billboard #1 dance-charters), and is still going strong!

Who is she? She’s Inaya Day!

Besides writing for herself, Inaya has written for Bootsie Collins, Randy Crawford, and Missy Elliot, to name just a few. In addition to house music, Inaya writes, records and performs gospel, musical theater, jazz, hip-hop (Queen Latifa, MC Lyte, Missy Elliott, Sean Puffy Combs, Big Daddy Cane, etc), and R&B. Seeking to gain more control over the fate of her music, Inaya started her own record label, Ny-O-Dae Music, from which she’s released the titles, “HIGHER PLACE”, “CHASE ME”, “THAT NIGHT”, “ONE WAY” (which graced the ARIA chart in 2011 and 2012), the reggae-flavored, “JUMP UP & DOWN”, and “LOOKING FORWARD”.

Inaya also had a moment in film when she acted and sang as “Jiffy” in “WHO SHOT PAT?” with Sandra Bullock in 1989.

It’s no wonder that this card-carrying member of the Actor’s Equity Association, groomed in church and musical theater (THE WIZ, LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, etc), would become one of the most prolific writers and frequently heard voices on the Universe’s dance floors.

Listen out for Inaya’s music, including her collaboration with Crystal Waters & Stonebridge, “LONG DAY”, her collaboration with Marc JB of Bimbo Jones, “EVERY BREATH” (w/mixes by Bimbo Jones, Frankie Knuckles, Tony Moran, GoldLock & Octagon) Billboard #6 “STRANDED” with Dirty Disco, and her 2016 Swishcraft Music release “DO WHAT WE DO” with Bit Error & Country Club Martini Crew, on a dance floor near you.