Love featuring Johnny Echols live at The Norwegian
What: The Norwegian is hosting a rare performance with one of the most influential bands of the 1960s: Love, featuring Johnny Echols.
Love was formed in Los Angeles in 1965. Their sound incorporates an eclectic range of styles including folk rock, psychedelia and garage. Love's third album "Forever Changes" is regarded by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the best albums of all time. Hits like "Everybody's Gotta Live," "Alone Again Or," and "Always See Your Face," have been covered and praised by the likes of Robert Plant, The Rolling Stones and The Doors.
This intimate performance is a ticketed event that is general admission. Seats are first come, first served. The restaurant will have an open bar, and a small list of food items will be available from the kitchen. The show is all ages. Parking is available in the municipal lot building.
When: 6 p.m. Sunday, April 27
Where: The Norwegian, 1402 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $35 in advance; $40 at the door
Blues legend Buddy Guy to return to Coronado Theatre in Rockford
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Chicago Blues legend and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Buddy Guy will return to Coronado Theatre this summer as part of The Damn Right Encore Tour.
The 87-year-old eight-time Grammy winner is slated to perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 27, at the Coronado, 314 N. Main St.
Tickets Go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday. Presale tickets are available now.
Guy, who received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 2015, has been credited with influencing other rock and roll icons such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. He has 38 Blues Music Awards, which is the most of any artist, and has been honored with the Billboard Magazine Century Award for distinguished artistic achievement, a Kennedy Center Honor and the Presidential National Medal of Arts. Rolling Stone Magazine ranked him No. 23 in its list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time."
Tickets will be available on Ticketmaster.com, by calling 815-968-5222, or visiting the BMO Center or Coronado Theatre box offices in person.
The BMO Center box office, 300 Elm St., is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The Coronado Theatre box office is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Rockford native Jake Runestad earns second Grammy nomination
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — A composer and conductor who hails from Rockford has earned his second Grammy nomination, this time for his latest album.
Jake Runestad, a 2004 Guilford High School graduate who now lives in Minneapolis, is one of five nominees in the Best Choral Performance Category for the 67th Grammy Awards. The list of nominees was released Friday, and the winners will be announced during the awards show airing Sunday, Feb. 2.
Runestad, 38, was nominated for "A Dream So Bright: Choral Music of Jake Runestad," which was released in August.
“It is a great honor to receive this nomination and to be recognized by the Recording Academy for our hard work," Runestad said in a news release. "I’m so proud of this album and am grateful to everyone who made it possible.”
The album features two of Runestad's compositions: His 2022 Emmy-winning choral symphony "Earth Symphony," which explores environmental loss through the voice of Mother Earth, and "Dreams of the Fallen," which pairs solo piano, choir and orchestra with poems from Iraq War veteran Brian Turner to explore the soldier's emotional response to war.
It was recorded by Arizona-based True Concord Voices & Orchestra with pianist Jeffrey Biegel and conductor Eric Holtan.
"We're thrilled with this nomination," Holtan said. "Jake is one of America's rising stars as a composer and he wrote two incredible pieces of music on two critically important topics.”
Classical music review outlet Gramophone has called the album "a forceful social statement" with "music of urgent and lyrical intensity." Pizzacato said the album "addresses the pain of the war experience in stirring, emotional music that ranges from the most intense to the most serene."
Runestad began composing while as senior at Guilford. His first Grammy nomination came in 2020 for “The Hope of Loving: Choral Music of Jake Runestad." It was recorded by Conspirare and conductor Craig Hella Johnson.
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
Nitro Circus, IceHogs at home, art museum's return and more ideas for weekend fun in Rockford
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Are you ready for the weekend?
The next four days include a mix of live music, arts, fundraisers, comedy, sports entertainment and other fun things to do.
To help you prepare, we've pulled together a little list of 16 sweet ideas for weekend fun.
Check it out:
Bachman-Turner Overdrive
What: Bachman-Turner Overdrive is bringing its tour to Hard Rock Live. The Canadian rock band formed in 1973 has seven Top 40 albums and 11 Top 40 singles.
When: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7
Where: Hard Rock Live, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Info/Tickets: Go HERE
POTUS on stage
What: “POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive,” a political farce directed by Epic Jones and written by Los Angeles-based writer and performer Selina Fillinger.
Where: West Side Show Room, 1414 N. Main St., Rockford
When: 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 4 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 17
Tickets: Free; donations accepted
Info: wssr.org
Honoring veterans
What: Alpine Academy will host a public program honoring veterans with a keynote address delivered by Mark Finnegan of the nonprofit VetsRoll. The program is designed to provide closure, gratitude and respect for senior veterans and Rosie the Riveter s. It will last approximately one hour.
When: 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7
Where: Alpine Academy gymnasium, 5001 Forest View Ave., Rockford
Admission: Free
'Life' holiday art show opening
What: This multimedia art show opening will feature music from The Tom Mac Group and gifts for purchase from artists Norm Knott, Juliane Loftquist, Barbara Bearney and Susan Hurley-Whitacre. That includes a range of ornaments, fabric, jewelry and prints. Theart exhibit runs through Jan. 25.
When: 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8
Where: Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford
Admission: Free
Meet the Stars
What: Meet and mingle with the stars of this year's annual Dancing with the Rockford Stars: Sneaker Gala. Drinks will be served by guest bartenders, and you can donate to the voting campaign of your favorite dance team with all proceeds benefiting Family Counseling Services.
When: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7
Where: The Pomodoro, 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Rockford Art Museum homecoming gala
What: After a year of being closed for renovations, Rockford Art Museum will host a Homecoming Gala fundraiser. The night features food from Abreo, cocktails, a homecoming court and live music from Too Deep.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 (6-7 p.m. for early entry ticket to Pep Rally)
Where: Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Donation: $200 or $250 for Pep Rally
Info/tickets: Go HERE
Cookie fundraiser
What: Quixotic Bakery will host its Warm Cookie Bake fundraiser to support Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum in south Rockford. Order online, have it delivered or walk into the dessert shop on Friday and 20% of the proceeds will go toward the museum.
When: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8
Where: Quixotic Bakery, 116 N. Madison St., Rockford
Order: Go HERE
IceHogs have 2 home games
What: The Rockford IceHogs take on the Grand Rapids Griffins on Friday for $2 beer night. Then, they're back at the BMO Center on Saturday night to take on the Iowa Wild.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8; 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Tickets: Go HERE
Holiday Spectacular
What: Crafters and artists will fill 25,000-square-feet of the Mercyhealth Indoor Sports Center with a variety of handcrafted merchandise ranging from jewelry to pet supplies, woodcrafts, clothing, accessories, floral arrangements, candles, yard and home decor and other items. You can also register to win hourly prizes donated from a variety of the show's crafters.
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10
Where: Mercyhealth Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Admission: $5
Tickets: Go HERE
Barking for Bingo
What: Bingo prizes valued at $40 or more, including a $600 Coleman hot tub, will be up for grabs in this event benefiting the nonprofit CARE for PETS. The organization, whose name stands for County Animal Rescue Endowment for Providing Enrichment Through Support, supports pet retention efforts, vaccine, spay and neuter and other services in underserved areas.
When: 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9
Where: Rockford Country Club, 2500 Oxford St., Rockford
Info: Go HERE
Mark Dvorak in concert
What: Singer, guitarist, composer, music historian and educator Mark Dvorak brings his unique sound to Inscape Collective. Admission is first-come, first-served with capacity limited to 50 people.
When: 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9
Where: Inscape Collective, 201 Seventh St., Rockford
Admission: $10 donation suggested
Comedy night with Deanna Ortiz
What: Deanna Ortiz, Chicago Reader's 2022 and 2023 best standup comic of the year, headlines this week's show. Featured comics are Jackie Cooper and Joseph Christopher with Marlon Hue hosting.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9
Where: Hope & Anchor English pub, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park
Admission: $10
Reservations: Call 815-633-2552
Nitro Circus
What: Nitro Circus brings its gravity-defying show to town with motocross, BMX, skateboard and other extreme sports athletes putting their skills on display.
When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Tickets: Go HERE
Nurse Blake: Shocked Advised Tour
What: Nurse Blake, who recently performed at the Netflix is a Joke Festival alongside Chelsea Handler and Chris Rock, brings his tour to Rockford.
When: 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10
Where: Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Tickets: Go HERE
Jon Bon Stamos
What: Jon Bon Stamos, a high-energy band that plays rock music with a banjo, plays at Pig Minds Brewing Co.
When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9
Where: Pig Minds Brewing Co., 4080 Steele Drive, Machesney Park
Info: Go HERE
The Stevee Nix
What: The Stevee Nix, a Rockford-based band that has been playing together for 20 years, takes the stage at Shattered Saloon.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9
Where: Shattered Saloon, 5440 N. Second St., Loves Park
Info: Go HERE
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
21 ideas for weekend fun in the Rockford area
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Spooky season is starting to settle on the Rockford region, with a variety of Halloween-themed events on tap this weekend.
There are trunk or treat events for the kids to put on their costumes and grab some candy, there are events and parties with live music for adults, a full moon hike and a slew of non-Halloween activities this weekend as well.
Looking for something to do in the area this weekend? Here are 21 ideas to get you started:
Trunk or Treat at Christ the Rock
What: Christ the Rock Preschool will hold its annual trunk or treat, providing children a safe way to collect candy from decorated cars.
Where: Christ the Rock Preschool, 8330 Newburg Road, Rockford
When: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16
Info: Go HERE
Full moon hike
What: Severson Dells Nature Center will host a full moon hike to help you learn about constellations and hopefully encounter nocturnal wildlife.
When: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17
Where: Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: $3 members; $5 nonmembers
Info: Go HERE
Tasting Notes
What: Jack Daniel’s Tasting Notes is a night of music from Carlos Calvo that cues tastings of a curated selection of Jack Daniel's whiskeys. Your ticket includes one curated Jack Daniel’s cocktail, Tennessee-inspired fare, live music and admission to the “Tasting Notes” experience where you will be able to savor four distinct expressions of Jack Daniel’s.
When: 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17
Where: Hard Rock Live at Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Tickets/info: Go HERE
Country Crooner at The Music Box
What: Country singer-songwriter Chris Bigford brings his show from California's Bay Area to The Music Box of Rockford.
Where: The Music Box of Rockford, 218 E. State St., Rockford
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18
Tickets: From $12.57
Info/tickets: themusicboxrockford.com
Spooky Science
What: Put on a Halloween costume and visit Discovery Center's trick-or-treat stations, play with glow-in-the-dark slime, make your own potions and watch some spooky science demos in the science theater.
When: 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $3 members; $9 non-members
Tickets/info: Go HERE
Avalon String Quartet
What: The Avalon String Quartet, which has been performing throughout the country and abroad since 1995, performs as part of the American Voices program from the Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18
Where: Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 406 N. Main St., Rockford
How much: $21 in advance; $25 at the door; $6 student
Tickets/info: Go HERE
Trunk or Treat at Loves Park Y
What: The Northeast Family YMCA will host this free family trunk-or-treat event with themed trunks around the walking path behind the Y in Loves Park.
Where: Northeast Family YMCA, 8451 Orth Road, Loves Park
When: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18
Info: Go HERE
IceHogs v. Admirals
What: The Rockford IceHogs take on the Milwaukee Admirals during $2 beer night. If you're not a drinker, you can also get a soft drink for $2.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Tickets: Go HERE
The Thorn
What: "The Thorn" depicts the story of God's love amid the spiritual battle for all humanity. It has been described as cirque meets the passion of Jesus, with a combination of dance, martial arts, aerial acrobatics and emotional performances.
Where: Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18
Tickets: Go HERE
Edward David Anderson at The Music Box
What: Americana singer-songwriter Edward David Anderson, who leads the band Backyard Tire Fire, takes the stage at The Music Box of Rockford. Anderson, who has been a regular part of the Anderson Gardens Tuesday night concert series, recently released a new full length album called "Still the River."
Where: The Music Box of Rockford, 218 E. State St., Rockford
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Tickets: $18.85
Info/tickets: themusicboxrockford.com
Holidazzle at Winnebago County Fairgrounds
What: Holidazzle is a juried arts and crafts show featuring more than 150 vendors to help you jump-start your holiday shopping and decorating season.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20
Where: Winnebago County Fairgrounds, 500 W. First St., Rockford
Admission: $5
Info: Go HERE
Killers of Kill Tony
What: "Killers of Kill Tony" is a standup comedy show featuring fan-favorites from the top-ranked podcast "Kill Tony." The lineup includes Kam Patterson, David Lucas, Hans Kim, David Jolly and Jessie "Jetski" Johnson.
Where: Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Info/tickets: Go HERE
Children's Dia De Los Muertos workshop
What: The Ethnic Heritage Museum will host a children's workshop with a variety of crafts and activities celebrating and teaching about Dia De Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead.
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Where: Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St., Rockford
Admission: Suggested donation of $10
Info: Go HERE
Hallo'deen
What: This family-friendly event includes Halloween-themed games, glow mini-putt, marshmallow long drive contest, golf cart rides on the haunted course, pumpkin decorating, treats and hot cider. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes. No golf clubs are needed.
Where: Aldeen Golf Course, 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
When: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Cost: $20
Info/tickets: Go HERE
The Awakening
What: The Awakening Tour is a faith-based musical event featuring Casting Crowns, We The Kingdom, Mac Powell, Katy Nichole, Terrian and David Leonard.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Info/tickets: Go HERE
Comedy at Hope & Anchor
What: Mo Good, a storytelling comedian from south Chicago, headlines this week's standup comedy showcase. Also featured are Angie McMahon, Victoria Flynn and Amy Sumpter.
Where: Hope & Anchor English Pub, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Cost: $10
Reservations: Call 815-633-2552
Fiddle wizard with Rockford roots
What: Jazz violinist Randy Sabien, who has roots in Rockford including writing his first Christmas song for J.R. Sullivan's Hometown Holiday, will bring his virtuosic fiddling to Concerts on the Creek.
When: 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Where: Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Admission: $10 donation encouraged
Tickets: Go HERE
Superhero Center Trunk of Treat
What: The Superhero Center for Autism will host a free trunk or treat event.
Where: Superhero Center for Autism, 4205 Galleria Drive, Loves Park
When: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Info: Go HERE
Twisted Crypt trunk or treat
What: This family-friendly, non-scary event invites children to dress up in their Halloween costumes for a trunk or treat in the Twisted Crypt parking lot.
When: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Where: Twisted Crypt Haunted House, 5420 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $2 (a portion is donated to Rock House Kids)
Info: Go HERE
Wicked trunk or treat
What: Wicked Elite Cheer will host its free annual trunk or treat event.
When: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Where: Wicked Elite Cherry and Tumble, 5512 Elevator Road, Roscoe
Info: Go HERE
Return of the Living Toast
What: Tawdry Toast and Artcade and Gilded Cages present a Halloween-themed evening of music, dance and nostalgic vibes. This adults-only event includes a costume contest and pumpkin painting competition. Live music starts at 8:30 p.m. from Disco Mountain, Dystology and Gilded Cages.
Where: Tawdry Toast Artcade, 406 Seventh St., Rockford
When: 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Oct. 19
Info: Go HERE
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
Today is Dre Day: Rockford honors drummer DeAndre Hemby with official day
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — DeAndre Hemby knew Friday was his day to showcase the musical skills he's cultivated to his hometown crowd.
But he didn't know Friday was his day in an official capacity.
Hemby, a 2013 Auburn High School graduate who now tours playing drums for Teddy Swims' band, was surprised minutes before the show Friday with a proclamation from the mayor's office officially declaring Sept. 20, 2024, as "Dre Day."
"I never thought that anything like this would be possible. I just play drums," Hemby said. "I can't put this into words what this really means right now. My heart is too happy right now."
Hemby was pulled from backstage onto the floor of the Hard Rock Live venue shortly before the crowd was let in. Gathered there were his parents, his former high school teacher Beth Heuer, and friends who were alongside Hard Rock Casino Rockford President Geno Iafrate and City Attorney Nick Meyer.
"I'm not really a cryer, but if I was a cryer I'd be boo-hooing right now," Hemby joked.
Meyer was standing in for Mayor Tom McNamara, who is at the Illinois Municipal League Conference in Chicago. So the city attorney read the mayor's declaration bestowing Hemby with his own honorary day.
"Because of his strong work ethic and determination, DeAndre played wherever opportunity presented itself, and because of his outstanding character, he slowly became known and was requested to perform," Meyer said reading from the proclamation.
The mayor's proclamations typically have more formal names — such as DeAndre Hemby Day. In calling it Dre Day, which is also the name of a 1992 rap classic from Dr. Dre, the declaration gave a nod to Hemby's nickname and musical proficiency.
It also delighted Hemby and his friends, who chanted "Dre Day" after the proclamation was read.
"It's mind-blowing," his father Demone Hemby said. "I'm so proud of him because I know all the work he's put into it, the tireless days of him coming home from school, going down in the basement, beating on drums all night long."
DeAndre Hemby now lives in Georgia, where he moved to attend Gwinnett Tech College after graduating Auburn. But as he has toured the country with a chart-topping musician, he has never forgotten that Rockford is home.
"Whenever he is interviewed, wherever he goes, he doesn't say I'm from Chicago, he doesn't say I'm from a city close to Chicago: He says, I'm from Rockford," said Delia Hemby, DeAndre's mother. "It's really important to know that Rockford recognizes him and he still remembers his roots."
Delia Hemby said her son got his first drum set when he was 2. It was a paper drum set, and it didn't last long.
"By the next day the paper set was torn up," she said.
As he got older, he would also wear down and break all his pencils at school from drumming on the desks.
"I couldn't stop him from playing, so I said if I'm not going to stop him from playing I have to cultivate his gift," Delia Hemby said. "I would put on my headphones and let him play and beat all day in the house, just to be able to let him get his gift out."
It was at Auburn, where he met Heuer, that he learned to read music rather than play by ear, his mother said.
"When they make it to the big time there's a sense of pride and joy," Heuer said. "Especially with this young man who walked in at 14 years old when I first met him, in the bands, he was just that type of kid that you could see that he was going to reach his dream."
Delia Hemby said there were a multitude of moments throughout her son's youth that she could see he would be successful in music.
One, in particular, stood out.
It was while Dre was playing drums in the youth department for Faith Center church, and his fellow musicians asked him to perform blindfolded.
"He played a whole musical set blindfolded," she said, "and I was like, oh, he's got it."
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
DeAndre Hemby’s journey from Auburn High School to drumming for Teddy Swims
Rockford native returns to hometown to perform at Hard Rock amid national tour
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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ROCKFORD — DeAndre Hemby’s story is one of passion, persistence and the powerful pull of music.
Born and raised here in Rockford, music didn’t begin for him at Auburn High School — it started long before.
More music: Rockford-area musicians, regional bands keep Hard Rock rocking multiple nights a week
Hemby grew up in family where music was always present. Despite his love for basketball, he was drawn to rhythm as a child, choosing music over sports. Both activities fueled his energy, but in the end, his heart belonged to the drums.
After graduating from Auburn High School in 2013, Hemby made a bold move. He left Rockford to chase his musical dreams in Atlanta while attending Gwinnett Tech College.
In May 2022, his life changed when he connected with the rising star Teddy Swims and became the drummer for his band.
Swims — whose music blends R&B, soul, country, and pop — has been rising on multiple music charts, including hitting No. 1 earlier this year on the Billboard Hot 100 for his song "Lose Control."
Hemby's first tour with the band was nothing short of spectacular as he found himself playing across Europe — a dream that once felt far from his Rockford roots. For Hemby, whose friends call him Dre, this wasn’t just a career move, it was the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice.
One of his favorite songs to play with Teddy Swims is “Bed on Fire.” He lights up as he talks about how fun and dynamic the setlist is, noting that Swims loves to switch things up every night.
“Every song is fun to play,” he said, “but 'Bed on Fire' and 'For the Rest of Your Life' are special to me. Teddy keeps things fresh, so every night feels like a new experience.”
The friendship among Hemby, Swims and the band is more than just professional — it’s personal. Every night before a show, they have a ritual: a pinky promise handshake.
“We pinky promise that no matter what’s going on during the day, when we hit that stage, we leave everything out there,” Hemby said.
This bond isn’t just for show.
“We don’t just say we’re a family — you can visibly see it," he said. "These are my brothers up there, and that energy is what makes our performance so transparent.”
Hemby's advice to aspiring musicians is simple yet profound: “Follow your passion, not the money. When you chase your inner drive, the money will follow."
Hemby went on to say that coming from Rockford, a small city, there’s always fear in making a leap to bigger places like Atlanta or Los Angeles.
"If you follow your dreams for the right reasons, everything will align," he said.
Now, he is preparing for a milestone performance in his hometown at the Hard Rock Casino Rockford.
This moment is huge for him — a chance to come full circle and show his city how far he’s come.
Hemby’s journey from Rockford to the world stage is a testament to following your passion and trusting the process, he said.
As he gets ready to perform at Hard Rock Casino, one thing is certain: this hometown hero’s story is just getting started.
This article is by Chelsea Meyer of B103 Rockford. You can reach her at chelsea@b103fm.com.
Daniel McMahon, a powerhouse in Rockford's music scene, has died at age 41
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Daniel McMahon, a powerhouse in the local music scene whose success had brought him from stages across the country to scoring an Academy Award-winning film, has died after a monthslong battle with cancer. He was 41.
The community had rallied around McMahon since he revealed his diagnosis in June, with multitudes of people wearing shirts with his image in his signature look with sunglasses and a brim hat. There were also pint glasses, bandannas and tune knobs with his image that friends, fans and supporters bought to help fund his cancer treatments.
"I have received a tremendous amount of support from so many people in the community," McMahon previously told freelance journalist Paul Arco, who was working on a story for the Rock River Current about McMahon's illness and the community's response. "So many businesses have reached out to offer their help and I'm extremely grateful."
McMahon and Arco were supposed to meet for an interview earlier this week, but the multi-instrument musician, audio engineer and record producer had lost his voice. He was still optimistic about his recovery at the time and they planned to reschedule, but he took a sudden turn for the worse Wednesday night.
Friends and fellow musicians are remembering McMahon not only for his talent and success in the music industry, but for his willingness to lift others up.
"He was so welcoming," said musician and songwriter Clark Kelly. "He is a major representative for the Rockford music scene and the community in general in a lot of ways, and I just appreciated that he was always very welcoming and friendly."
Kelly worked with McMahon to record his song "Popsicle" earlier this year, and he had turned to McMahon multiple times to record music for his custom-songs business. But Kelly said before they even knew each other well, McMahon had illustrated his willingness to help a fellow musician in need.
Kelly recounted a time when he was struggling with technical issues during setup for a show at Prairie Street Brewing Co. in 2019, McMahon sprang into action without even being asked.
"He big brothered me. He helped me sort out problems that weren't his issue," Kelly said. "Just out of the goodness of his heart. If one of us wins, we all win in his mentality."
McMahon has toured with multiple Midwestern bands, including Cory Chisel and The Wandering Sons and Cameron McGill. He was best known for his primary performing role as guitarist and backing vocalist for Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts.
McMahon and Nielsen composed original music for the documentary "Undefeated" by former Rockfordian Daniel Lindsay. The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2012.
Former mayor Larry Morrissey later declared April 2012 as Dan Lindsay, Dan McMahon, and Miles Nielsen Month.
McMahon and Nielsen were also honored in 2012 with the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Rockford Area Music Industry. That same year he scored the 12-minute long short film that helped the Rockford Park District win the 2012 National Gold Medal Award for excellence in parks and recreation.
That video was directed by Pablo Korona, the visual storyteller behind the Our City, Our Story series. Korona said he had also turned to McMahon when he was looking for a way to bring life to the Our City, Our Story concept.
"I knew it needed more than visuals, something deeper to make people feel it. Dan’s music gave it purpose," Korona wrote on social media. "His score doesn’t just sit in the background; it shapes how people experience a story. It moves them."
McMahon turned to music in the sixth grade after breaking his leg. His father had an old guitar in the house, and 12-year-old McMahon picked up the new hobby while he recovered.
He never stopped.
Even after cancer had forced him to halt touring, McMahon was still putting out music. He worked remotely with producer Duane Lundy and other musicians to release "I Make Mistakes" on July 25 while he was still undergoing chemotherapy.
On June 15, McMahon told friends and supporters on social media that what he initially thought was a vocal issue turned out to be cancer discovered in his lower esophagus.
"Hug your loved ones and be kind to one another, life is fragile," he wrote at the time. "I’m gonna fight hard to beat this and get back to the Rock’n’roll as soon as possible."
Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts had a candelabra with McMahon's image that they would keep lit on stage so he could be with the band in spirit while health issues forced him to stay at home.
Mayor Tom McNamara said McMahon gave back to the community in a multitude of ways, from serving on the Rockford Area Venues & Entertainment Authority board to helping lead the OnStage Coronado series that delivered fans an intimate performance with them on stage with the artist.
"He was just incredibly smart, caring and tremendously talented," McNamara said in a phone interview. "He was a fan favorite in the local music scene, from his colleagues and peers who are also musicians to audience members like myself who appreciated his talents."
As the city's mayor, there was another aspect of McMahon that McNamara appreciated.
"When he was out touring he was proud to say he was from Rockford," the mayor said.
In addition to his work with Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts, McMahon recorded and performed with Rock & Roll Hall-of-Famer Bun E. Carlos in the Monday Night Band.
Carlos, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a member of Cheap Trick, and The Monday Night Band are staples at Mary's Place, one of the city's oldest bars that is recognized as a key part of the city's music scene.
"Can’t even begin to process the passing of Daniel McMahon. What he meant to us, and our community simply cannot be expressed in words," Mary's Place posted on social media on Thursday. "We’re so grateful to have been part of his life, and to have experienced his talent and kindness firsthand. Rest in peace dear friend. Things will never be the same without you."
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
Rockford-area musicians, regional bands keep Hard Rock rocking multiple nights a week
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — When singer Valerie Soetermans first learned a Hard Rock was being built here, she was delighted by the possibility of performing at an internationally recognized music venue right in her hometown.
"Then I thought, oh, they're probably going to bring in everyone from everywhere else," said Soetermans, who has toured with country musician Louise Mandrell and performed with stars such as Dolly Parton before returning to her hometown to raise her family.
On Saturday, Soetermans and her band Stages took the Council Oak stage at Hard Rock Casino Rockford, joining a growing number of local and regional musicians to be featured at the three-week old casino.
Nationally touring acts such as Teddy Swims, Brad Paisley, Joan Jett and Akon have grabbed attention and filled seats inside the Hard Rock Live music and event venue. But four nights a week musicians from inside the city and across the Rockford region fill two stages at the casino.
Local musicians say it provides them with a unique opportunity to pick up new followers at a venue that itself is a draw.
"To be able to hit a stage like Hard Rock, for us it solidifies the hard work that we've done around the Midwest," said Tina Renee, lead singer of The Synergy Band. "It's exciting and it's monumental for a lot of our bandmates inside of the Synergy Band because now we're able to hit a casino that's known throughout the entire world."
Synergy, whose seven members come from the Rockford region as well as Milwaukee and Chicago, brings its high-energy blend of soul, funk and R&B to the Hard Rock Cafe stage at 10 p.m. Saturday night. Renee said the show will be a highlight for many in the band.
"If we can show up and show out at this one, hopefully they'll book us at others," Renee said.
While the 1,600-seat Hard Rock Live venue is used for major acts, as well as banquets and big events. Two smaller stages showcase talent from here and across the region. The Hard Rock Cafe stage is just behind the center bar, where bands perform for guests who are dining, passing time between gambling or there to see the show.
The Council Oak stage, which is at the casino's steak and seafood restaurant, gives a jazz lounge vibe with a more intimate setting.
"I really, really like when I can look at somebody's eyes and I can see them and not just be blinded by stage lights," Soetermans said in between sets on the stage Saturday. "The intimacy is super great. I feel like I can engage with the audience more that way."
'Part of the Hard Rock DNA'
Acts on those stages will largely come from the Rockford region as well as Chicago, Madison and Milwaukee, said Steve Platcow, during a tour of the facility on opening day.
"We might even throw in a surprise and delight national act," he said.
The lineup is a diverse mix of genres from classic rock to pop, soul, R&B, funk, jazz, country, acoustic, and even ukulele. The later of those came from Todd Lorenc, a Rock Falls resident who plays classic hits and covers on acoustic and electric ukuleles.
"I think it's going to spotlight a lot of regional artists," Lorenc said after his set Saturday night on the Hard Rock Cafe stage. "I was honored they asked me to play. I was pretty excited about that. It seemed like it went really well, there was a good reception and I got some good exposure, I think."
The two stages have bands playing four nights a week, from Thursday through Sunday, with local and regional acts filling many of those spots.
“Entertainment and music are part of the Hard Rock DNA,” said Geno Iafrate, president of Hard Rock Casino Rockford. “I’ve got nine different windows every week that I can feature local, regional entertainment."
The big stage of Hard Rock Live is filled with touring acts, but this Friday it blends a bit of both. DeAndre Hemby, a Rockford native and Auburn High School graduate, tours with Teddy Swims as the band's drummer.
“It feels really good to come home to perform with Teddy and the guys,” he told the Rock River Current's radio partner B103 earlier this month.
Iafrate and his team tapped local musician and producer Vince Chiarelli to help keep the two smaller stages booked. Chiarelli was initially booked as a performer, which he'll do again at 6 p.m. Thursday. But now he's helping bring in other talent, too.
"I think people see multi-international conglomerate company and think maybe it's going to be all behind the scene and someone in a big ivory tower pulling the strings," Chiarelli said. "I have not seen that at all. This is very grassroots. Local. They're using as much local talent, local labor as possible."
Chiarelli is the owner of Vincent Records, a record label started by his grandfather. He's continued to develop it as a production company focused on events, bookings and management.
He said eventually there will be a larger influx of Chicagoland bands, but he wants to keep the local presence in the mix.
"The more we can get live entertainment and actually help fuel the entertainment world and give the bands another place to perform, that's really the collective goal here," Chiarelli said. "Let's get as many local Rockford bands as possible. So at least they get a shot."
'Friendly faces'
Musician Clark Kelly, a Rockford native who was booked by Chiarelli to perform this Friday night on the Cafe stage, said it was a smart move by Hard Rock to have a local producer booking talent. Similarly, he said having locally-owned Luxe Productions on hand to run sound gave him confidence that the mix will come out right.
"It's just a lot of familiarity to maybe combat that idea of, oh this big company that's coming to town," Kelly said. "It feels very welcoming and friendly with these friendly faces kind of representing them."
Performing at the Hard Rock isn't without its challenges. Musicians are often competing for attention with all the hustle and bustle of the casino.
It's easy for a performer to fade into background music.
"I appreciate the challenge," Kelly said. "I go into these sets prepared. I have a lot of different songs, so if something's working or I see I've engaged people or they're staying, I want to keep them there."
On the flip side, playing Hard Rock comes with its own built-in audience and an opportunity to win over new fans.
"I just want the chance to get up and do my thing," Kelly said. "Hopefully win people over and turn some people on to what I'm trying to do."
Emilio Salinas, a singer and musician who uses his acoustic guitar and looper pedal to create a one-man band, said the cafe stage setup offers a good balance for musicians.
"It's a good spot because it's kind of in the back, so it can be it's own thing and people can enjoy the casino without being bothered too much by the main stage of the music," he said. "I like this Hard Rock Cafe stage because it's a good balance of separation between people who want to do their own thing or gamble and people who want to have a bite to eat and jam out to some music."
The 26-year-old, much like Soetermans, hoped for the opportunity to play Hard Rock one day after he heard it was coming to town. The opportunity came sooner than expected.
"Literally a week after it opens they're already texting me saying, 'Do you want to come out and play?'" he said.
He said he held back a little on his first performance earlier this month, which was a last-minute booking. But he's looking forward to returning on Friday, Oct. 4.
"Definitely next time I'm going to let full loose and see what happens," Salinas said. "Next time I'll be inviting all my friends and family and anybody else who wants to come out: I'm going to try to give them 110%."
'A dream come true'
The bands that perform on the stages inside the casino are more than a sideshow, they're also a draw.
Take for example Pino Farina Band, a Chicago-based alternative rock band that took the Cafe stage on Saturday. They arrived with their own following of supporters who danced to the songs decked out in band merch.
"You'll have your followers with these bands, and they will follow the band wherever they go," said Jenny Nanzer, a Pino Farina fan who traveled about an hour's drive from Peru to see the show.
"I'm just here for the music. I'm not a gambler," she said.
The band plays a mix of covers and original songs, something lead singer Pino Farina relished the opportunity to do on Hard Rock's stage.
"It's kind of a dream come true to play an original song in the Hard Rock," he told the crowd.
Kelly, Renee, Chiarelli and others said they've seen excitement from local fans when they book a show at the Hard Rock. It also gives fans an opportunity to see the bands without paying a cover, something that is commonly asked, Chiarelli said.
That enthusiasm shows them that Hard Rock will prove to be a solid venue for local musicians.
"Yeah, you've still got the people in the background gambling, but I'm seeing even in the first two weeks there's a lot of people just going out there to see the performances," Chiarelli said. "I can tell because of the messages I'm getting from performers, which is always, 'We've got people asking is there a cover.' ... That tells me right there people are actually coming to see the music."
September lineup | Hard Rock Casino Rockford
Here's a look at the rest of this month's lineup at Hard Rock Casino Rockford and Hard Rock Live.
Hard Rock Live
- Teddy Swims: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20
- Brian McKnight: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28
Hard Rock Cafe stage
- Paul Bronson: 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19
- Clark Kelly: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20
- Boom Boom Room: 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20
- Lola Blu: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21
- Synergy Band: 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21
- Three Good Men: 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26
- Andrew Robinson: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27
- Trash 80s Band: 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27
- Solar Acoustic: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28
- Ric Jaz & Friends: 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28
Council Oak stage
- Vince Chiarelli Band: 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19
- Carl Cole Trio: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20
- Swingfish: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21
- Nick @ Night: 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22
- Joel Baer Quartet: 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26
- Tony Vecchio Quartet: 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29
For more upcoming events: Go HERE
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
Country star Mo Pitney to headline benefit concert for Rockford Rescue Mission
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Rockford Rescue Mission will celebrate its 60th anniversary later this month with a benefit concert featuring country star Mo Pitney and his cousin Luke Pitney.
Mo and Luke Pitney are the grandsons of early mission leaders the Rev. Gerald and Nadine Pitney. Gerald Pitney served as the nonprofit's first director about a year after it was founded by Ray Stewart in 1964.
The concert is slated for 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W. State St. It's preceded by a ticketed Mo Pitney meet and greet from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and a meal.
More things to do: Variety show, art fair, paranormal activities and Oktoberfest on tap this weekend
Music by the Pitney family has played a large role in the Rescue Mission's history. Mo and Luke Pitney's parents all performed in a bluegrass group called The Pitneys, which helped fund the nonprofit in the 1980s and 1990s. Before that, Gerald and Nadine Pitney led music and played piano in evangelistic crusades.
"In the past 30 years, the mission has sponsored concerts and music festivals," the Rescue Mission said in a news release. "So it's only natural that this year of celebrating our 60th anniversary culminates with great music."
Mo Pitney's debut album, "Behind This Guitar," landed on Billboard's Top 10 country albums chart in 2016. He followed that with 2020's "Ain't Lookin' Back." His song, "Country," reached Billboard’s Top 40 Hot Country Songs.
Luke Pitney, who runs a custom homebuilding business and is the son of Rescue Mission CEO Sherry Pitney, is also a country music artist whose debut album "Where I've Been" was released in 2013.
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The Rockford Rescue Mission offers Christian-centered care to people struggling with homelessness, poverty, abuse and addiction. Its crisis centers provide food and shelter to hundreds of men, women and children each day.
It also offers Life Recovery programs designed to provide long-term, Christ-centered help to people struggling with addiction, escaping domestic violence or other desperate circumstances.
Know before you go | Benefit concert
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 (5:30 p.m. meet and greet; 6 p.m. dinner)
Where: Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W. State St., Rockford
Cost: $35 (concert only); add the meal for $10 more; For $100, you get entrance to the meet and greet, the meal and premier seating for the concert
Tickets: Go HERE
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas