THE OFFSPRING Thursday, August 30, 2012 Schnucks Great Lawn Stage

Selling more than 36 million albums worldwide, The Offspring is one of the best-selling punk rock bands of all time. They have released 9 albums, with 26 charting singles. The Offspring quickly made their name in punk music as the highest selling band ever on an indie label. Some of The Offspring’s mega-hits include, “Come Out and Play (Keep ‘Em Separated),” “Self Esteem,” “Gotta Get Away,” “Pretty Fly (for a White Guy),” “Why Don’t You Get a Job?,” “The Kids Aren’t Alright” and “She’s Got Issues.” The Offspring’s latest single, Days Go By, released in 2012 currently is charted at # 4.

 

BILLY CURRINGTON Friday, August 31, 2012 Schnucks Great Lawn Stage

Platinum-selling recording artist Billy Currington , who recently celebrated his fifth consecutive #1 single with “Let Me Down Easy” is one of country music’s brightest rising stars. Billy’s performance will feature fan favorite songs that have gone to #1 including “Don’t,” “People Are Crazy,” “That’s How Country Boys Roll,” “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right,” and “Good Directions.” Billy Currington has sold over 11 million units, earned multiple RIAA Gold and Platinum certifications, has been nominated for two Grammy Awards and multiple CMA and ACM Awards and brags seven #1 singles and ten Top 10 singles.

 

CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVISITED (CCR) Saturday, September 1, 2012 Schnucks Great Lawn Stage

Creedence Clearwater Revival’s distinctive swamp rock went against the grain of the ’60s and won a worldwide following and numerous gold and multi-platinum singles and albums.  Revial disbanded in 1972, but Stu Cook and Doug “Cosmo” Clifford, who had played together since junior high, remained close and realized they both missed playing live CCR music that had been lying dormant. They formed Revisited to perform the classic songs in concert such as, “Susie Q,” “Lodi,” “Proud Mary,” “Down On The Corner,” “Fortunate Son,” “Bad Moon” and “Who’ll Stop The Rain” for the world.

 

THEORY OF A DEADMAN Sunday, September 2, 2012 Schnucks Great Lawn Stage

The platinum-selling Vancouver quartet builds hooks around hard rocking stories of good times, bad times, and everything in between. Formed in 2001, the band brags 7 top 10 hits on the Hot Mainstream Rock Track Chart including “Lowlife” and “Bad Girlfriend.” Another Theory hit, “Not Meant to Be” went to #1 on the Hot Adult Top 40 and to #19 on the Mainstream Top 40. Theory of a Deadman’s latest album, The Truth Is, released in July 2011, has made its way up the charts, peaking at #1 on both the Top Hard Rock Albums’ Chart this year and the Top Rock Albums Chart in 2011.

 

THE BODEANS Friday, August 31, 2012 Oasis Stage

The BoDeans are still going strong a quarter century after their Burnett-produced debut, “Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams”, led them to win a Rolling Stone readers’ poll as “Best New American Band.” Also, nearly 20 years after their “Closer to Free” became a massive hit and the theme song of the sitcom Party of Five, The BoDeans still tour America year round, turning the children of their diehard fans into admirers themselves.

 

 

LEON RUSSELL Sunday, September 2, 2012 Oasis Stage

Leon Russell is a music legend and perhaps the most accomplished and versatile musician in the history of rock ‘n roll. In his distinguished and unique 50 year career, he has played on, arranged, written and/or produced some of the best records in popular music. Leon has played on pop, rock, blues, country, bluegrass, standards, gospel, and surf records.  Leon not only toured with the Rolling Stones,  but also had a successful solo career with singles such as 1972?s, “Carney” and “Tight Rope.”

 

CASEY JAMES Saturday, September 1, 2012 Center Stage

CaseyJames first emerged on the national scene with his third-place run on Season 9 of American Idol, but he has been melting hearts with his tunes far before that.  Raised in Texas by a family of singers, James had a guitar in his hand at a young age. Most recently recognized for his country single, “Let’s Don’t Call It a Night,” James is an Idol that is quickly rising to fame.

 

THE DUNWELLS Saturday, September 1, 2012 Oasis Stage

From Leeds, England, the band has been compared to Mumford and Sons and offers a panoramic collection that seamlessly melds elements of Celtic and American folk, rock, blues, pop and soul into a trademark sound all their own. “Anyone that’s seen them has just been ‘Oh My God!’ They’re mind boggling!” raved Folk Alliance Executive Director Louis Jay Meyers to Voice of America radio. “The quality of the songs, the quality of the playing, the quality of the vocals, the harmonies. Man, they’re like Mumford and Sons times 10.”

 

Phil Vassar Sunday, September 2, 2012 Center Stage

Known as one of Nashville’s top tunesmiths, Phil was racking up hits on the radio long before he even began his own recording career.  Vassar continues to churn out incisive, soulful lyrics and infectious melodies that capture the heart and soul in the unique and special way that only he can.  He is known for up-tempo piano numbers that instantly get your foot tapping like “Carlene,” and “Six-Pack Summer,” and heartstring-tugging devotionals like “That’s When I Love You,” and “Just Another Day In Paradise.”

 

HAMILTON LOOMIS Friday, August 31, 2012 Left Bank Stage

With a burning desire for innovation and originality, Hamilton Loomis has blended every genre that raised him. “If blues, soul, and rock can be said to form a triangle, you’ll find Hamilton Loomis at the center of it,” says Guitar Player Magazine. This Texan blues musician plays several instruments, from guitar to piano.  Recently, his originality and drive for experimentation has earned him two “Best Artist” awards in England and in Wales.

 

CHERRY POPPIN’ DADDIES Saturday, September 1, 2012 Left Bank Stage

In celebration of the bands 20th year in the music business, Cherry Poppin Daddies are back on the road with their Skankin’ hits.  Like their 1998 multi-platinum smash, “Zoot Suit Riot,” the Swingin’ hits of the new album will emphasize one genre as well, this time Ska.

 

Finding Clyde Thursday, August 30, 2012 Schnucks Great Lawn Stage

The strength that Essexville, Michigan-based hard rock quartet Finding Clyde delivers is an uncommon combination of simple, chord-driven rock melodies and innovative composition. Having shared the stage with artists such as Buckcherry, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Slash, Alice Cooper, Pop Evil, Stone Temple Pilots, Egypt Central, and 3 Doors Down, the members of Finding Clyde have proved their ability to perform both on-stage and in-studio.  

 

Dead Sara Thursday, August 30, 2012 Schnucks Great Lawn Stage

Dead Sara is an electrifying four-piece rock band whose supercharged music is propelled by Medley’s exhilarating, monster guitar riffs and Armstrong’s powerful, wailing vocals. These four have attracted major buzz for the ferocious spectacle of its high-octane live performances. Come get blown away! 

 

THE LAST VEGAS Sunday, September 2, 2012 Schnucks Great Lawn Stage

“They combine rock, glam and garage for an ass-kicking sound. No doubt, rock ‘n roll is here to stay.” – Billboard. With a unique sound all their own The Last Vegas has played with performers such as Alice Cooper and Guns N’ Roses. This Chicago band is guaranteed to rock your night!

 

 

SMOKIN GUNZ Saturday, September 1, 2012 Center Stage

Smokin’ Gunz musical style and background is derived from straight forward rock-n-roll, combined with hard driving, country music styles, backed by heartfelt harmony vocal arrangements, with some real foot tapping dance tunes to provide musical entertainment for all types of audiences regardless of their musical preferences.

 

 

MILES NIELSEN AND THE RUSTED HEARTS Friday, August 31, 2012 Oasis Stage

Somewhere between a bar and the recording studio, Miles Nielsen’s stirs up his own pop rock brand of Beatles-eque Cosmic Americana. Pop rock arrangements and sunny melodies tucked between a long lost country folk steel guitar floating through speakers around crashing drums, bouncing bass lines and smooth as butter keys. Born in Rockford, IL, home of Cheap Trick and ‘Symbol’, power pop DNA runs through the veins of his songs and performances.  

 

 

Dirty Dozen Brass Band Sunday, September 2, 2012 Left Bank Stage

The Dirty Dozen Brass Band is a world famous music machine, whose name is synonymous with genre-bending romps and high-octane performances. They have revitalized the brass band in New Orleans and around the world, constantly touring in the U.S. and in over 30 other countries on five continents.

 

THE ELDERS Friday, August 31, 2012 Center Stage

Combine a group of Kansas City kids with a love for Celtic music and an Irish man with a passion for anything American, and what do you get? A powerful punch of explosive and progressive music, with its roots buried deep in tradition. The consistency of excitement that The Elders bring to every performance and their catchy sound keeps their fan base expanding.

 

MARK COLBY Sunday, September 2, 2012 Left Bank Stage

At age eleven, Mark took the next step in his evolution, saxophone, and thus began his life-long love affair.  Immersed in the sounds of the big bands enjoyed by his father, intrigued by the more modern sounds of bebop, cool and hard-bop records his sister played around the house, his dedication to pursuing a life in music was cemented.  He will be performing with the Rock Valley College Jazz Ensemble.

 

FIVE TO GO Sunday, September 2, 2012 Left Bank Stage

Five To Go’ is a newly formed jazz group with some of the top players in Northern Illinois.    You have seen its members performing in numerous groups for many years.   They are excited to have formed this new collective and are exploring contemporary, groove-oriented jazz.    Featuring a traditional 5-piece setup with 2 horns (sax and trumpet) and rhythm section of piano, bass and drums, you will hear the group achieve a rich variety of sounds and textures.

 

BRYAN LEE AND THE BLUES POWER BAND Sunday, September 2, 2012 Left Bank Stage

Losing complete eyesight by age eight did not stop guitarist, singer and songwriter, Bryan Lee, from doing what he loves…playing blues music! Commonly known by the nickname Braille Blues Daddy, Lee held the longest gig on Bourbon Street performing 5 nights a week for 15 years at the historic Old Absinthe Bar.

 

SLAMABAMA Sunday, September 2, 2012 Center Stage

From the first note to the last encore, the energy and intensity of SLAMABAMA will have your undivided attention. Made up of four of the most accomplished singer/instrumentalists in the Midwest, they are capable of delivering everything from the biggest country hits to the most driving rock classics.

 

THE ROCKIN’ JOHNNY BAND Friday, August 31, 2012 Left Bank Stage

The Rockin’ Johnny Band plays vintage Chicago blues, but also is known for a wide repertoire which ventures into Stax style soul, swing, and lots of originals that are harder to classify. On stage, the band performs with spontaneity and fun, always showcasing fantastic guitar playing. Living Blues states:The Rockin’ Johnny Band has “top notch ensemble work, with power, drive, and a keen sense of dynamics”.

 

NATTY NATION Friday, August 31, 2012 Center Stage

Hard Roots Rock Reggae & Dub–this is the unique blend of music that is Natty Nation.  2012 marks their 17th anniversary of keeping the positive messages of their unique indigenous Wisconsin reggae beats throbbing through the heartland. Their messages of peace, love, community, & spreading positive vibrations have been ringing out since Natty’s inception. 

 

Mariachi Ameca Saturday, September 1, 2012 Center Stage

Mariachi Ameca was founded by Jaime Cervantes in Chicago,Il in 1983. Our band consists of 9 members most of which have had years of musical experience. Mariachi Ameca has accompanied many famous singers such as, Lucha Villa, Guadalupe Pineda, Pablo Montero, Aida Cuevas, and Napoleon.  We play a variety of traditional mexican music including, sones, boleros, popurris, polkas, rancheras, cumbias, and more.

 

AFTER 5 JAZZ Saturday, September 1, 2012 Left Bank Stage

This popular regional jazz group performs a distinctive blend of energy infused swing, uptempo latin and soulful smooth jazz that you’ll certainly not want to miss!  Lead by Thom Fishe on drums, Dave Ross on piano, Greg Clough on upright bass, special guest Jimi Harsevoort on percussion and featuring the strong aspiring sax talent of Evon Sams…..this group is a must see and hear!

25 OR 6 TO 4 THE CHICAGO EXPERIENCE Sunday, September 2, 2012 Oasis Stage

From the original Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) to present-day Chicago, 25 or 6 to 4 – The Chicago Experience captures the incredible sound, emotion and energy of the legendary band Chicago. With a catalog that covers dozens of songs released among the 120 million albums sold, 25 or 6 to 4 passionately performs Chicago’s hits and presents a thrilling multi-media show, complete with choreographed video, dazzling lighting effects, live video feeds and nostalgic audio clips.

 

HEIDI SWEDBERG AND THE SUKEY JUMP BAND Saturday, September 1, 2012 Children’s Stage

Heidi Swedberg is best known for her role as Susan Ross on the television sitcom Seinfeld. Now as a children’s performer, Swedberg and her band unite families with the encouragement to pick up an instrument and play along!  

 

JIM GILL Sunday, September 2, 2012 Children’s Stage

Jim Gill’s music creates and environment for learning and laughter, bringing emphasis on family play to his live concerts. Jim has released six award-winning CDs of music play for young children.

 

 

GUY KING Saturday, September 1, 2012 Left Bank Stage

This now Chicago blues guitarist and singer was born and raised in a small country town in Israel. While young in age, Guy King’s unique background and rich international experiences have helped shape him into a world-traveled, world-wise musician who incorporates those elements into his art form.

 

 

 

KINSEY REPORT Saturday, September 1, 2012 Left Bank Stage

Solidly based in the blues as a result of lifelong training in the Big Daddy Kinsey household, the Kinsey scions are also versed in a broad range of music. The band expertly covers all the bases from Chicago blues through reggae, rock, funk, and soul, and their recordings are also distinguished by the songwriting talents and self-contained production.

 

MOONLIGHT JAZZ ORCHESTRA Friday, August 31, 2012 Left Bank Stage

Since 1974, the 18-Piece Moonlight Jazz Orchestra has been a Rockford favorite! This award winning group has backed up such legendary entertainers as The Box Tops, The Four Freshmen & The Temptations, and has opened for Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. With over 400 selections in their book, the band consists of 3 powerful horn sections backed up by a full rhythm section to create a sound like no other, performing everything from swing to rock-n-roll to contemporary hits.

THE MISSING LINKS Sunday, September 2, 2012 Oasis Stage

The Classic Rock/ R & B group, The Missing Links, hail from Rockford, IL. They have shared the stage with Blood, Sweat and Tears, Steppenwolf, The Drifters and Gary Puckett and privileged to be opening acts for the Spinners, Ides of March, The Romantics, Three Dog Night, Little Richard, Little Vito and the Torpedoes, Lynne Jordan and the Shivers, Marshall Tucker Band and Randy Bachmann. The Missing Links are known to invite their musician friends to join them on stage, for an evening full of dancing and musical fun.

MR. BIG STUFF Sunday, September 2, 2012 Oasis Stage

Rockford’s own Mr. Big Stuff is an eight piece, horn party band that plays everything from Sinatra to Ozzy and everything in between. This band will wow you with Show tunes, Rock classics, Funk, R&B,and Soul. Even those who don’t dance will dance to this high energy octet’s powerful rhythm section, strong vocals, and blazing horn section.

 

JOHN ALLRED QUARTET Sunday, September 2, 2012 Left Bank Stage

Following his roots back to New Orleans, John Allred has developed a deep appreciation for traditional jazz, and his musical sensibilities have lead him into bebop and other unique musical styles.  Allred, one of the best jazz trombonists playing today, is active worldwide and his latest CD, “Head To Head”, with Wycliffe Gordon, has received rave reviews in jazz magazines around the globe.

 

CAN’T TOUCH THIS Sunday, September 2, 2012 Oasis Stage

A funk, party and dance band playing all of your favorite hits!  This group was assembled from selected musicians from such local bands as: Mr. Big Stuff, Dean Moriarty, Lickity Split, Fake Your Money Maker, Missing Links, Men Of Our Times and more!

 

TWO OF US Sunday, September 2, 2012 Center Stage

Two Of Us is the husband and wife duo of Doug and Lorraine Janicke.  In the Two Of Us, Doug and Rain feature strong male and female vocals and acoustic guitar, performing popular music from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond, especially featuring pop and rock classics as well as singer-songwriter hits.  At On the Waterfront, the Two Of Us will play country classics, country ladies of the 90s, tunes that Thunder Heart became known for, and some original songs, too!

 

QUINTETO LATINO Friday, August 31, 2012 Center Stage

The Latin rhythm dance group, Quinteto Latino, features traditional and contemporary genres of spanish music.  Seasoned performers and friends for many years, members of the group had often come together to perform for Latin music festivals, special events and family celebrations.  Quinteto Latino was formed when they decided to join together to showcase the music they love and grew up with, while sharing their heritage and culture at the same time.

The Firelight Dimmers will be performing on Saturday as street performers from 1-7.

JEFF LAYNG & JAZZ ASSOCIATES Sunday, September 2, 2012 Left Bank Stage

RAMI YOUTH JAM ARTISTS Saturday, September 1, 2012 Oasis Stage

KEITH COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL ROCK CAMP  Saturday, September 1, 2012 Oasis Stage

GUZZARDO’S EMERGING ARTIST SHOWCASE Saturday, September 1, 2012 Oasis Stage