Verizon Wireless Left Bank Stage Performers

Presented by WNIU/WNIJ

Friday, September 3, 2010

Little Big Band                               5:30-7:00 PM

A Rockford favorite for over ten years, the Little Big Band embodies the sounds of the 1930’s and 1940’s. Contrary to tradition however, the Little Big Band also plays latin, funk, rock, blues, and jazz.  Varying anywhere from 6-8 performers at each show, they are known to induce nostalgia.

Candye Kane                                  7:45-9:15 PM

As quoted by BB King, Candye Kane has that big, brassy voice that has authority and sass; the kind of thing men like because it’s seductive and women like because it’s powerful. That alone makes Candye Kane a must see at this years festival.  This Blues-inspired music inspires Candye Kane to honor the bold blues women of the past with both feet firmly planted in the present. She belts – growls – shouts – croons and moans from a lifetime of suffering and overcoming obstacles.

Lil’ Ed and the Blues Imperials   10:00-11:30 PM

Lil’ Ed Williams, although small in stature, is a true giant of the blues, and among the very last authentic West Side Chicago bluesmen.  A gifted guitarist and a remarkably gritty and soulful vocalist, Williams, along with his blistering, road-tested band, The Blues Imperials, has been tearing up clubs and festival stages all over the world for almost 25 years.

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Bright Stars Celebration            12:30-2:45 PM

Kilborn Alley Blues Band          3:15-4:45 PM

The Kilborn Alley Blues Band does gritty Chicago blues and southern fried soul for all the generations of blues lovers. This music speaks for itself; better still, it convinces you to listen.

Moonlight Jazz Orchestra         5:30-7:00 PM

Based out of Rockford, Illinois, Moonlight Jazz Orchestra is an 18-piece big band with over 400 selections in their library. The award-winning group has performed with The Four Freshman, The Temptations and more. Soloists, vocalists and humor come together in this diverse dance band, giving the audience a spectacular show.

Magic Slim & the Teardrops        7:45-9:15 PM

Born in Mississippi, Magic has taken the Blues of the South is keeping it alive in the Midwest.  Backed by a musically gifted trio of musicians, Magic’s die-hard fan base’s support shows that this man truly knows the Blues.  Magic has been quoted to say that “I’ve got the blues deep down in my heart and I’ll keep on playing till I can’t no more.”

Three Beers Til Dubuque            10:00-11:30 PM

Hailing from La Crosse, Wisconsin, this 8-piece funk band has an electrified stage presence. Energy and passion come together to create a sound reminiscent of Tower of Power, Chicago P-Funk, 311, John Coltrane and others. The band’s songs “Long Legged” and “Daily Buck” showcase their sense of humor and carefree mentality. How far til Dubuque? Three beers, man. Three beers.

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Rock Valley Jazz Ensemble & After Five Jazz Quartet       11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Jazz musician Mark Colby has performed with Gerry Mulligan, Jaco Pastorius, Frank Sinatra, Maynard Ferguson, Bob James, Charlie Haden and Mose Allison. He has played for over 2,000 Chicago commercials and is well known for his masterful saxophone solos on numerous albums.

Grazyna Auguscik Group              1:00-2:30 PM

She is one of the most intriguing contemporary vocalists on today’s World jazz scene. Her elusive style challenges traditional definitions of jazz and show vocalist and musician without boundaries.

John Primer Blues Band                3:15-4:45 PM

Influenced by Muddy Waters’ former sideman, Sammy Lawhorn, he was taught the slide guitar at a young age. He then joined the Chicago Blues All-Stars of Willie Dixon in 1979, then the Muddy Waters’ band until the latter’s death in 1983. Then he joined the Magic Slim & the Teardrops and began a solo career on Wolf Records.

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue           5:30-7:45 PM

Hailing from Tremé, the most musical neighborhood in the most musical city New Orleans, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews has made the leap from child prodigy to Professional Master Musician. Andrews plays trombone and trumpet. He is a man to be reckoned with on both.

Here Come the Mummies               8:30-10:45 PM

Completely dressed in Mummy costumes during performances this 9 piece performing group consists of various musicians out of Nashville (they keep their identities a secret).  The Funk/R&B band in their mummy attire always gets the fans going. The Band’s tongue in cheek humor provides for a fun show!