Gerald Dowd
Boston-raised, Chicago-braised drummer/singer/songwriter Gerald Dowd has been described as “the hardest-working drummer in Chicago” (Richard Milne, WXRT), playing on over 100 albums, and averaging 150 live dates a year around the world. He’s spent the last 3 decades logging years and miles playing drums for Grammy-nominated artists Robbie Fulks and Justin Roberts, Nora O'Connor, Sons of The Never Wrong, and has also played and/or recorded with Eddie Vedder, Mavis Staples, David Hidalgo and Cesar Rosas (of Los Lobos), and A Prairie Home Companion, among many others.
In recent years, Mr. Dowd has been releasing his own solo records, consisting of original Americana/roots-based music described as "hook-heavy, cleverly crafted" (No Depression) with songs "that reflect(s) the warmer, earlier period of The Band." (Chicago Sun-Times). His most recent album, “Fathers Day,” featuring performances from Nora O'Connor (Decemberists, Iron And Wine, Neko Case), Robbie Gjersoe (The Flatlanders, Jimmy Dale Gilmore) and pedal steel legend Lloyd Maines, spent weeks after its release on the Americana Charts Top 100. A new record is in the works for 2026.
He continues to share stages with Jeff Tweedy, Ian Hunter, Nellie McKay, Delbert McClinton, Kasey Chambers and more.
Richard Bandini
Richard Bandiniis a Spanish-American musician based in Chicago, known as the frontman and guitarist of Bandini. With nearly three decades of experience, he began performing at 14 with his brothers in the band Kaplan, playing major festivals like Festimad and Benicassim. His music blends indie rock, alt-pop, blues, and sadcore, shaped by collaborations with artists such as Julio de la Rosa, Manuel Cabezalí, and Phil Yates. In 2022, he released A Hymn to the Beauty of Silhouettes, praised for its emotional depth and sonic richness. His 2025 release, Twosome, is an introspective and evocative exploration of the complexities of human connection, love, and disillusionment. The album's tone is enriched with poetic imagery, as it contemplates faith and the passing of time. A blend of indie rock and art rock, the album’s introspective lyrics are framed by lush arrangements, creating an immersive listening experience that resonates deeply with those seeking meaning in an uncertain world.
Rachel Drew
Rachel Drew is a singer-songwriter from Chicago, celebrated for her soulful voice and catchy, self-penned tunes that blend pop, rock, folk, and retro soul. Her latest album, Old Sky New, was recognized as one of the 13 Best Chicago Albums of 2024 by the Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ/Vocalo-NPR. Rachel’s music has been featured on NPR’s Great American Folk Show and WFMT’s legendary Midnight Special program. Alongside her band—John Szymanski on guitar, Michael Krayniak on bass, and Jason Batchko on drums—she creates a dynamic force on stage. Alan Harrison of The Rocking Magpie writes of Rachel’s latest album, “There’s something of a hint of Dusty in Memphis, minus the strings here; as Rachel has a similar breathy and pearlescent voice that reels you in... the arrangements are pure Laurel Canyon at its height when Linda Ronstadt and Mama Cass could do no wrong.”
Photo by Bill Sanders
Shirley Johnson
Shirley Johnson, known as the “Sweetheart of the Blues” is a prominent Chicago-based blues singer celebrated for her powerful voice and soulful performances.
Shirley Johnson was born in Franklin, Virginia, and raised in Norfolk, Virginia. She began her musical journey at a young age, singing gospel music in church choirs. Influenced by artists like Mahalia Jackson, Koko Taylor, Etta James, and Ruth Brown, she developed a deep appreciation for both gospel and secular music.
In the early 1980s, Shirley moved to Chicago, where she became an integral part of the city’s vibrant blues scene. She recorded several singles and gained recognition for her dynamic performances.Her music blends elements of blues, soul, and gospel, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
Photo by Howard Greenblatt
Carlos Showers
Carlos Showers is a Chicago-based blues guitarist born in 1956 and raised in the city, where he developed a lifelong passion for music. His first instrument was the cornet, which he began playing in fifth grade, later switching to the baritone horn in high school. In 2016, Showers was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame as a Master Blues Artist, recognizing his decades of contributions to the genre. He is also a member of the Delmark All-Star Band.
Showers’ philosophy is to stay consistent and true to the music, valuing both technique and soul so the audience can feel the authenticity of the performance. He sees Chicago as one of the “Capitals of the Blues” with a rich, enduring history.
Also featuring Amanda Payne
Sponsored by: Horner Park Advisory Council, Ravenswood Manor Improvement Association and Special Events Management
