Shemekia Copeland

Whether she's belting out a raucous blues-rocker, firing up a blistering soul-shouter, bringing the spirit to a gospel-fueled R&B rave-up or digging deep down into a subtle, country-tinged ballad, Shemekia Copeland sounds like no one else. With a voice that is alternately sultry, assertive and roaring, Shemekia's wide-open vision of contemporary blues, roots and soul music showcases the evolution of a passionate artist with a modern musical and lyrical approach. The Chicago Tribune says Copeland delivers “gale force singing and power” with a “unique, gutsy style, vibrant emotional palette and intuitive grasp of the music.” NPR Music calls her “fiercely expressive.”

Copeland is touring on her return to Alligator Records, a powerhouse album called "Outskirts of Love".

http://www.shemekiacopeland.com/

Bill Brickey

Bill Brickey has been a performing artist all of his life. From his his early musical theater education to his many years as a frontman in bands of most every genre, Bill has demonstrated an unrelenting passion and deep understanding of the performing arts.

A 22 year veteran of the Old Town School of Folk Music headquartered in Chicago, Bill is a much sought-after teacher who freely shares his gifts, talents, skills and experience with his students. He teaches everything from rhythm to fingerstyle guitar, rhythm and blues ensembles, Wiggleworms, songwritng, singing and performance.

A founding member of Chicago bands Red Handed, Steam Shovel, BLT, Groove Cognizance, Wood, Bone & Steel, Count the Days, and Come Sunday (whose first critically acclaimed CD received a rare 3.5 stars from Downbeat Magazine), Bill has built a dedicated following. A compelling vocalist influenced by R&B, he is just as comfortable with Country, Folk, Gospel and Rock Music.

Brickey is an infusion, an influential voice on the music scene, a skilled guitarist and masterful vocalist. Bill takes his audiences on a wild ride through groove-based jams, blues tinged traditions, and personal story-songs of love and loss. Bill heard music calling and he answered it with his life's work.