We were all set to cover Tommy James’ performance in Reno. For those unfamiliar, Tommy James and the Shondells, formed in 1964 in Niles, Michigan, are a legendary American rock band led by Tommy James. Known for hits like “Hanky Panky” and “Crimson and Clover,” they scored 14 top 40 hits, including “I Think We’re Alone Now,” “Mirage,” “Mony Mony,” “Sweet Cherry Wine,” and “Crystal Blue Persuasion.” With over 100 million records sold, 23 gold singles, and nine gold and platinum albums, their music continues to resonate across generations.

However, upon arriving at the Grand Sierra Resort (GSR) and passing through the security gate, ready to interview Tommy, I discovered that he had canceled due to illness. In his place, Dennis Edwards’ Temptations Revue was scheduled to perform.

Dennis Edwards’ Temptations Revue is a tribute act that celebrates the legacy of the legendary Motown group, The Temptations, and Dennis Edwards himself. Dennis Edwards was a key member of The Temptations from 1968 to 1984, providing lead vocals on hits like “I Can’t Get Next to You” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.”

After leaving The Temptations, Edwards formed his own version of the group, known as Dennis Edwards’ Temptations Revue, in 1998. The Revue features handpicked singers who perform authentic renditions of The Temptations’ classic hits, ensuring that fans can experience the timeless Motown sound.

The crowd was ready for the switch in artists. Most were fans of 60s music, so the change was a surprise, but they were still eager to dance to all the hits. These included “Get Ready,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Ball of Confusion (That’s What the World Is Today),” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” “The Way You Do the Things You Do,” “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me),” and “My Girl.”

I delighted to see the crowd dancing to all of their hits from start to finish.

The setlist will probably include tracks from her recent album along with favorites like “Bad Guy” and “When the Party’s Over.” Each night will offer its own special moments, making it a must-see for any Billie Eilish fan. Be sure to arrive early to soak in the excitement!

Click HERE to Buy Tickets!

Click HERE for Billie Eilish Official Website

Photos and Review by Anita Maree

Earth, Wind & Fire – Timeless Grooves Ignite the Night

Attending an Earth, Wind & Fire concert is like stepping into a vibrant time machine that traverses decades of musical excellence. On a balmy summer night, the iconic band graced the stage at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL, delivering a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Shining Star” filled the air, it was clear that the evening would be an unforgettable celebration of soul, funk, and R&B.

The energy in the venue was electric as the band, fronted by original members Philip Bailey, Verdine White, and Ralph Johnson, effortlessly captivated the audience. Their stage presence was dynamic, and their performance tight and polished, a testament to their decades of experience and undeniable talent. Bailey’s falsetto was as smooth and powerful as ever, especially during classics like “Reasons” and “After the Love Has Gone,” where his vocal prowess left the crowd in awe.

Verdine White, with his boundless energy and signature bass grooves, was a spectacle unto himself. His infectious enthusiasm and masterful playing were a driving force behind the band’s irresistible rhythms. Ralph Johnson’s impeccable drumming and charismatic stage persona added another layer of depth to the performance, showcasing the band’s versatility and cohesive sound.

One of the highlights of the evening was the seamless blend of timeless hits and contemporary flair. Songs like “Let Your Feelings Show,” “Devotion,” “Let’s Groove,” and “Boogie Wonderland,” had the audience on their feet, dancing and singing along with joyful abandon. The band’s tight harmonies and intricate arrangements were complemented by an impressive light show and vibrant visual effects, creating a sensory experience that was both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Earth, Wind & Fire’s ability to transcend generations was evident as the crowd was a diverse mix of ages, all united by a shared love for the band’s music. From seasoned fans who have followed the band for decades to younger attendees experiencing their magic for the first time, the universal appeal of their sound was undeniable.

In conclusion, an Earth, Wind & Fire concert is more than just a musical performance; it’s a joyous celebration of life, love, and the enduring power of music. Their unwavering passion, exceptional musicianship, and timeless hits make for a concert experience that leaves a lasting impression, proving that Earth, Wind & Fire remains as relevant and captivating as ever.

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Chicago – A Night of Classic Rock Brilliance at Allstate Arena

Chicago, the legendary rock band, delivered an unforgettable performance at the Allstate Arena tonight, solidifying their status as icons of the music industry. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as fans of all ages filled the venue, eager to experience the magic of a band that has been a staple of the music scene for over five decades.

From the moment the band took the stage, it was clear that this would be a night to remember. Kicking off with the electrifying “Introduction,” Chicago immediately showcased their signature blend of rock, jazz, and soul. The band’s energy was palpable, and their tight musicianship set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Original members Robert Lamm, Lee Loughnane, and James Pankow were in top form, their chemistry and camaraderie evident in every note. Lamm’s soulful vocals and keyboard prowess shone brightly on classics like “Saturday in the Park” Loughnane’s trumpet solos were crisp and exhilarating, while Pankow’s trombone added a rich, dynamic layer to the band’s sound.

The band’s powerful rendition had the entire arena on its feet, singing along and reveling in the iconic guitar riff. Neil Donell, the band’s lead vocalist and newest member, delivered a flawless performance, his voice seamlessly blending with the band’s harmonies and adding a fresh yet familiar touch to the beloved classics.

The evening was a masterful mix of greatest hits and deeper cuts, pleasing both die-hard fans and newer listeners. Songs like “If You Leave Me Now” and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry” brought a wave of nostalgia, while tracks like “I’m a Man” showcased the band’s versatility and ability to rock out with t

he best of them. The horn section, a defining element of Chicago’s sound, was particularly impressive, their synchrony and skill elevating every song.

In conclusion, Chicago’s performance at the Allstate Arena was a testament to their enduring appeal and musical prowess. Their ability to blend timeless hits with high-energy performances ensures that they remain as relevant and captivating as ever. For those lucky enough to attend, it was a night of classic rock brilliance that will be remembered for years to come.

Now, let’s talk about the exciting encore. These two legendary bands came together on stage performing each other’s songs.  It certainly was a high-energy finale that left the fans dancing in their seats.

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United Center

Chicago, IL

September 30, 2024

Shrithik Karthik

One of my most anticipated shows of 2024 just came to the United Center on Monday, September 30th. It was the Sweat tour by Charli XCX and Troye Sivan. When I say I was excited, that truly is an understatement.

Previously, this tour was announced before the drop of the album “Brat,” and at the beginning, it was not quite a best seller. However, nobody truly understood the culture reset that came with the release of the “Brat” album. This album was her biggest seller in her entire career, and she single-handedly sold out almost every show on this tour. Not to mention, this was a co-headlining show with Troye Sivan, who had released “Something to Give Each Other” last year, so this was a show filled with a ton of fans from all over.

The night began with Shygirl, a singer and DJ from South London, whom I was unfamiliar with. That said, I really enjoyed her set as it fits the Brat theme. She had two backup dancers who accompanied her the whole time, and her personal DJ played her songs from the back. She definitely came in with the energy for an opener and did a great job warming up the crowd. The visuals very much gave off Vaporwave vibes, especially the ones that were rally big in like 2018. They gave her practically full audio access, which was a nice touch, incredibly almost complete control of the bass, which was bumping. “Encore,” her final song, was my absolute favorite. The beat went wild, and the bass was so strong, which I enjoyed. She killed it for an opener, and I will definitely continue to listen to her music!

It was 9:30 sharp, and immediately, the lights turned off, and the arena exploded. This was the moment practically everyone else had been waiting so long for. Troye Sivan was the first to start the show, coming out right after his dancers did their moves. He knew he wanted everyone to get hyped, so he told everyone to jump right before the switch to Charli. The thing that I liked was just how good this Co-Headlining performance was. This was likely the best version of two headliners playing the same show because they kept switching off each other every three songs. Charli would play her three, then Troye, and so on, which made it really good to see two very contrasting sides of the performance. Especially so because Troye had his backup dancers and performed very artistic, while Charli performed in a filthy, natural, hardcore, trashy style but in the best way. 

Troye Sivan went off the stage, and the Green walls labeled Brat immediately came down. The Brat green was practically a trademark and had become a staple in her style. The energy was off the charts, and this was quickly one of my favorite moments of this year. Something completely unexpected was how she played the “365” remix with Shygirl instead of the original song, and in my personal opinion, the remix was just so much better. The bass was on full blast, the ground was shaking, people were screaming, the walls dropped, and it felt like my heart was about to explode. Immediately, she starts and says, “Chicago, what the F- is up,” if you couldn’t, this show was not PG. This time, her outfit started with an all-black outfit that I thought looked incredible. You could feel the entire arena go feral when that initial beat dropped. This was quickly one of the best tour intros I have seen all year, and wow, it was just a blast. 

The rest of the show was just an absolute mishmash of energy from the two artists; Troy had a more artistic performing style, beautiful energy, great vocals, dancing, and more, while Charli had more of a get-down-and-dirty style. It was just so incredible, and personally not being the biggest fan of Troye, seeing him live was such a treat and he made the experience so worthwhile in every way. The whole performance had so much depth behind it, and the stage design was unique, with a walkway down to the center stage, a highrise pillar style, and more. It was just so good.

Everything was done perfectly, playing to their demographics and the audience; Charli and Troye kept it 100 the entire show. Her ability to turn a whole arena into a rave was unparalleled, and this tour was a life-changing performance. Though this was listed as a co-headlining tour, it was Charli’s night through and through. You can’t help but wonder if she wished to switch this tour to her’s only because I and many others would pay anything to experience something like that. Giving an absolute masterclass of performance, this was undeniably one of the year’s best shows, and Charli has quite literally changed the game. A true icon she is and an absolute banger of a show this was. 

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When I heard Billy Bob Thornton was coming to town with his band, The Boxmasters, I literally jumped at the chance to cover the show. Get this: The band blends elements of rock ‘n’ roll, country, and ’60s pop, and when you throw in a front man with as much worldwide popularity (and notoriety) as actor Billy Bob Thornton (“Bud” as his gas-station attendant button down shirt displayed), the level of uniqueness was something that simply could not be missed. Here’s my honest take on their performance at Chicago’s City Winery last week:

In terms of authenticity, The Boxmasters’ music is rooted in a genuine appreciation for vintage Americana sounds, drawing heavily from the ’60s, British Invasion rock, and Southern influences. You can sense that the band’s style and Thornton’s vocals are sincere attempts to pay homage to those eras. Also, the lyrics seem to have a strong narrative quality, which is of no surprise, given Thornton’s acting and creative background. Honestly, most of their songs carry a certain straight-forwardness but with quite a bit of wit as well, which was fun. The only disappointing aspect is Billy Bob’s singing voice. It’s gravely and a bit monotone, which makes the songs feel less engaging after awhile. But, Thornton and the entire band are certainly entertaining, that’s a fact.

See Photo Gallery Video Below

VIDEO

Based on the fact that the band is playing to a niche’ audience in smaller venues makes it surprising that they have released seventeen (17) albums, they’re latest entitled, Love & Hate In Desperate Places, which was just released this past August. But, unlike others in this day and age, let us not gauge worthiness and success on crowd size alone. In the end, if you’re into throwback sounds and appreciate strong storytelling in music, you’ll definitely enjoy them. Plus, watching/hearing the legendary Billy Bob in action…I mean, c’mon, it’s a win-WIN! Catch Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters in the States through mid-November. Click HERE for the band’s official website.

Photos and Review by Anita Maree

Earth, Wind & Fire – Timeless Grooves Ignite the Night

Attending an Earth, Wind & Fire concert is like stepping into a vibrant time machine that traverses decades of musical excellence. On a balmy summer night, the iconic band graced the stage at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL, delivering a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Shining Star” filled the air, it was clear that the evening would be an unforgettable celebration of soul, funk, and R&B.

The energy in the venue was electric as the band, fronted by original members Philip Bailey, Verdine White, and Ralph Johnson, effortlessly captivated the audience. Their stage presence was dynamic, and their performance tight and polished, a testament to their decades of experience and undeniable talent. Bailey’s falsetto was as smooth and powerful as ever, especially during classics like “Reasons” and “After the Love Has Gone,” where his vocal prowess left the crowd in awe.

Verdine White, with his boundless energy and signature bass grooves, was a spectacle unto himself. His infectious enthusiasm and masterful playing were a driving force behind the band’s irresistible rhythms. Ralph Johnson’s impeccable drumming and charismatic stage persona added another layer of depth to the performance, showcasing the band’s versatility and cohesive sound.

One of the highlights of the evening was the seamless blend of timeless hits and contemporary flair. Songs like “Let Your Feelings Show,” “Devotion,” “Let’s Groove,” and “Boogie Wonderland,” had the audience on their feet, dancing and singing along with joyful abandon. The band’s tight harmonies and intricate arrangements were complemented by an impressive light show and vibrant visual effects, creating a sensory experience that was both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Earth, Wind & Fire’s ability to transcend generations was evident as the crowd was a diverse mix of ages, all united by a shared love for the band’s music. From seasoned fans who have followed the band for decades to younger attendees experiencing their magic for the first time, the universal appeal of their sound was undeniable.

In conclusion, an Earth, Wind & Fire concert is more than just a musical performance; it’s a joyous celebration of life, love, and the enduring power of music. Their unwavering passion, exceptional musicianship, and timeless hits make for a concert experience that leaves a lasting impression, proving that Earth, Wind & Fire remains as relevant and captivating as ever.

Website | Facebook | YouTube | Tik Tok | Twitter | Instagram |

Chicago – A Night of Classic Rock Brilliance at Allstate Arena

Chicago, the legendary rock band, delivered an unforgettable performance at the Allstate Arena tonight, solidifying their status as icons of the music industry. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as fans of all ages filled the venue, eager to experience the magic of a band that has been a staple of the music scene for over five decades.

From the moment the band took the stage, it was clear that this would be a night to remember. Kicking off with the electrifying “Introduction,” Chicago immediately showcased their signature blend of rock, jazz, and soul. The band’s energy was palpable, and their tight musicianship set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Original members Robert Lamm, Lee Loughnane, and James Pankow were in top form, their chemistry and camaraderie evident in every note. Lamm’s soulful vocals and keyboard prowess shone brightly on classics like “Saturday in the Park” Loughnane’s trumpet solos were crisp and exhilarating, while Pankow’s trombone added a rich, dynamic layer to the band’s sound.

The band’s powerful rendition had the entire arena on its feet, singing along and reveling in the iconic guitar riff. Neil Donell, the band’s lead vocalist and newest member, delivered a flawless performance, his voice seamlessly blending with the band’s harmonies and adding a fresh yet familiar touch to the beloved classics.

The evening was a masterful mix of greatest hits and deeper cuts, pleasing both die-hard fans and newer listeners. Songs like “If You Leave Me Now” and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry” brought a wave of nostalgia, while tracks like “I’m a Man” showcased the band’s versatility and ability to rock out with t

he best of them. The horn section, a defining element of Chicago’s sound, was particularly impressive, their synchrony and skill elevating every song.

In conclusion, Chicago’s performance at the Allstate Arena was a testament to their enduring appeal and musical prowess. Their ability to blend timeless hits with high-energy performances ensures that they remain as relevant and captivating as ever. For those lucky enough to attend, it was a night of classic rock brilliance that will be remembered for years to come.

Now, let’s talk about the exciting encore. These two legendary bands came together on stage performing each other’s songs.  It certainly was a high-energy finale that left the fans dancing in their seats.

Website | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter | Instagram |

By Michele Mussatto, UnRated Magazine

For the third time, Slipknot will be heading America’s biggest Labor Day party known as Rocklahoma, August 30 through September 1, 2024 in Pryor, OK. 

Slipknot, now touring with new drummer Eloy Casagrande formerly of Sepultura, is hotly anticipated to be as sick as ever with this accomplished new skinsman.  They will close the festival on Sunday after metal greats Lamb of God and Mastodon.  This will be Slipknot’s 9^th tour stop in their “Here Comes the Pain 25^th Anniversary World Tour, which is already selling out arenas in the U.S.

Nu metal giants Disturbed will close the night on Saturday, joined by Christian rock band Skillet and alternative rockers A Day to Remember.

Friday video game music composers Avenged Sevenfold will end the night with their melodic metal.  Halestorm and Evanescence will open for A7X.  Coal Chamber will also play on Friday with their frenetic high-energy metal that will likely launch some great mosh pits.

The Big 4 of thrash will remain unrepresented this year, as Anthrax has dropped off the lineup.  But Slayer lead guitar player Kerry King is guaranteed to “slay” on Sunday with his solo show.

Other bands in the music line-up for Rocklahoma include Clutch, Wage War, Nothing More, Badflower, Pop Evil, Giovanne and the Hired Guns, Bad Wolves, Tom Keifer, Winger, Faster Pussycat, Vixen, Set it Off, The Warning, Kim Dracula, Tim Montana, Sleep Theory, Austin Meade, The Oxymorons, Enuf Znuf and more.

Information on camping and the festival can be found at https://rocklahoma.com/.

AVA Amphitheatre

Tucson, Arizona

July 14, 2024

by Mary Andrews 

Slash’s S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival made a stop at Tucson’s AVA outdoor Amphitheatre on a stormy night. The allstar cast celebrated the blues with a portion of the proceeds going to charity. The cast of entertainers will change during the summer and it was announced that this was the last night for Eric Gales, Samantha Fish, and Warren Haynes. It was a who’s who of today’s blues musicians. Guns’n Rose’s Slash, is one of the world’s most admired guitarist in existance today.

They were in a hurry to get the show started due to the weather being unpredictable. Eric Gales opened the festivities with as much guitar swagger as the law would allow. My only complaint was that the set was much too short being only 30 minutes (four songs). Gales packed in riviting rendions of “You Don’t Know the the Blues,” “Voodoo Child,” “Kasmir,” and “Back in Black.” 

Samantha Fish followed Gales with another kickass 30 minute set.  Fish performed here last year as a part of Buddy Guy’s last tour. It was obvious that the crowd rememebered her guitar prowess as they were out of their seats clapping and dancing to her hard driving guitar licks. Her four songs included “Kick Out the Jams,” “Bulletproof,” “I Put a Spell on You,” and “Somebody’s Always Trying.” Fish was on fire. She brought out her surprise guest, Warren Haynes, for a song and then it was quickly over.

Warren Haynes and his band extordinaire took the stage after Fish. His band included John Medeski on keysboards, Kevin Scott on bass, and Terrence Higgins on drums. Haynes was playing guitar. (Apologies if I missed someone.) The 45 minute set included “Man in Motion,” “Banks of the Deep End,” “Hattissburg Hustle,” but also the song that the fans kept shouting for throughout the set, “Soulshine” was performed at the end of the set.

Slash’s set was the main event at the end of the show. The set was filled with classic blues songs like “Born Under a Bad Sign,” “Stormy Monday,””PapaWas a Rolling Stone,” and “It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry.” Warren Haynes was the first guest to join Shash during his set and before the evening was over, all of the previous performers joined Slash during the set. 

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The S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival runs through August 17th with more excellent acts including Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram, Larkin Poe, Keb’ Mo,’ Robert Randolph, ZZ Ward, and special unannouced guests. If the show comes to your area, do yourself a favor and mosey on down to the show. You won’t regret it.

The 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race, held on July 7th, was a thrilling event marked by challenging weather conditions and intense competition. Alex Bowman emerged victorious, snapping an 80-race winless streak and securing a spot in the 2024 playoffs. Despite the weather forecasts, the weekend drew a decent crowd and featured live performances by legendary country artist, Keith Urban; Blues king, Buddy Guy; as well as the 40th Anniversary Celebration of House Music, bringing several notable house music DJ’s to the main stage. See pictorial video of the entire weekend below:

The Mann Center

Philadelphia, PA

Shrithik Karthik 

Roots Picnic is held in Philadelphia every year in the first week of June. This year, it returned to The Mann Center in Philadelphia with an absolutely killer lineup. It is more than just a music festival; it is a celebration of art, music, and culture. The lineup covered so many genres: R&B, Rap, Hip-Hop, Pop, and more. Over 30,000 people were in attendance, and they completely sold out on Saturday. People came from all over the country for this music festival, and it was definitely worth it.

There is a lot to talk about, but the organization was the most notable. Many of the artists could get on and off the main stage quickly, and on the main stage, there were very few delays on both days. For a music festival, this is a considerable feat. The festival organizers did an excellent job setting up the stages, food vendors, free water stations, and other attractions throughout the festival space, which added to the area’s livelihood. Overall, it was such a fun experience, and I had a great time. I was invited to check out the VIPee Restroom Experience hosted by Charmin. This experience included a DJ, a Charmin mascot, and, most notably, a phenomenal bathroom experience, which was such a treat and infinitely better than the porta potties available at most festival grounds. It was spotless and very high quality, and the toilet paper was also very comfortable. It was open to all festival goers; they would have to RSVP, and when their time came, they would be allowed to use the restroom. This was a great touch and should definitely be included at future festivals.

I really enjoyed a few sets: Sexyy Red, Smino, Lil Wayne and the Roots, and more. Including two main stages just a short distance from one another with two very different feels made the experience fun and new. The Presser Stage and The Fairmount Park Stage were the two stages I frequented the most, with the centennial stage being more like a podcast stage where people would talk more than perform. The presser stage gave the vibe of an outdoor pavilion, while the Fairmount Park Stage was more like a main stage at a festival with a very high stage, perfect lighting, huge visuals, and more. All the headliners performed on this stage, which was obviously very fitting.

Sexyy Red was my favorite performance, though it was only around 30 minutes; it had great energy, visuals, set design, backup dancers, and more, and it was just so much fun. She gave it her all in those 30 minutes, and from a photographer’s perspective, my best pictures came from her set. Another artist I absolutely love is Gunna; however, his set was concise, mainly due to the massive delay in switching the set to his. The artist before him was running very late, so as a result, his set was cut very short, which was very unfortunate. Besides him, everything was relatively smooth when changing the sets for new artists, and the turnaround time was quick.

Another artist I enjoyed was Smino, who gave a captivating performance. He had very crowd control, engaged with everyone in the audience, and was so much fun. I really enjoyed his set, and he is an absolute must-see live.

The two main headliners, Jill Scott and Lil Wayne gave a headline performance. What they did live was incredible and very deserving of the headline spot. Lil Wayne rapped on an infectious beat, and the CO2 jets added a nice touch, accentuating his performance well. Jill Scott’s flowery set design with immaculate visuals was a fantastic touch for her headlining performance.

This was a phenomenal weekend with so much music and fun. Shoutout to all those who made this weekend happen. This is a must-see festival if you’re in Philadelphia or the surrounding areas. Make sure to come check it out next year!

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