
SCHEDULE
Saturday, July 23
- 12:30-2:15pm Valerie B. & Vincent C. Vfunk
- 2:30-4:15pm Tonite Only
- 4:30-6:15pm Ivan Singh
- 6:30-8:15pm Lloyd Stephens Band
Sunday, July 24
Ladies Day
- 12:30-2:15pm Sonia Downs Band
- 2:30-4:15pm The NuBlu Band
- 4:30-6:15pm Demetria Taylor
- 6:30-8:15pm Nora Jean Bruso
Saturday, July 30
- 12:30-2:15pm Dave Weld & The Imperial Flames
- 2:30-4:15pm Joe Jordan Tribute to Marvin Gaye
- 4:30-6:15pm New Orleans Beau
- 6:30-8:15pm Ivy Ford
Sunday, July 31
- 12:30-2:15pm Eddie Butts Band
- 2:30-4:15pm The NuBlu Band featuring Carlise Guy
- 4:30-6:15pm Asamu Johnson & the Associates of The Blues
- 6:30-8:15pm Mike Wheeler Band
THE LINEUP
Saturday, July 23
Sat. July 23, 12:30-2:15pm
Valerie B. & Vincent C. Vfunk
Bio & Videos
“V” Funk, is a Premier Milwaukee-based Funk, R&B, dance band. “V” Funk is a high-powered, high-energy funk band that has hit the music scene entertaining fans all across Wisconsin. Their energy, power, and style has proven the ability to entertain and engage music-loving fans from all backgrounds, since 2012. Led and managed by Valerie B. and Vincent Chambers, they add their own musical flavor to Old School, Funk, R&B, Blues, and Rock spanning the 60’s to the present day! This band
has hit the music scene and is thrilling audiences across Wisconsin.
VFunk has been described as “…one of the best Soul, R&B groups EVER HEARD!! They BLEW US AWAY!!” It is evident that we love the music we play, we are entertaining, and that we are a crowd-pleaser. Fans enjoy the “V” Funk style of music as well as our entertainment earning us a Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) nomination in 2019!
Sat. July 23, 2:30-4:15pm
Tonite Only
Bio & Videos
Tonite Only keeps the party going with their style of everything from Albert King, to Eric Clapton, to Ray Charles to a little bit of Tom Petty to shake up the play list. A regular at the Blues Fest, the band which features Granville’s own Mark Krause as lead guitarist (and wow can he play the strings), earned bragging rights last year at the Granville Cars Show when they walked away with the trophy during the car show’s Battle of the Bands. A favorite for private parties, they bring their own brand of blues/fund/rock/classics to Granville.
Headliner
Sat. July 23, 4:30-6:15pm
Ivan Singh
Bio & Videos
Wow are we in for a treat. Ivan Singh brings his sound and he brings in. Singh is a 28 years old Guitarist and Singer who comes from Argentina he recently moved to Chicago with great acceptance in the blues community .Today he is one of the Greatest Blues Guitarists in his country and becoming as Chicago Blues Artist using his “Lata de Batata” slide guitar (4 strings) to develop a distinctive sound and stand-out style. In a short period of time Ivan Singh has shared a stage with Buddy Guy and John Primer. In addition to tours throughout Argentina, Ivan has also played in more than 9 countries between North America, Europe, Central and South America.
Sat. July 23, 6:30-8:15pm
Lloyd Stephens Band
Bio & Videos
Lloyd is versatile and has sung all over the United States and abroad mesmerizing audiences away along the way! Lloyd’s Band prides itself to be the most “badass” band in the land ….and brings R&B…..and brings the house down with true soul.
Sunday, July 24
Sun. July 24, 12:30-2:15pm
Sonia Downs Band
Bio & Videos
The Sonia Downs Band, formerly Sonia Astacio & The Harrison St Band are a straight ahead Chicago electric blues band based in Chicago IL. The bands big sound comes from 2 guitars, keyboard, bass, drums and the powerful lead vocals of Sonia Astacio. Koko Taylor has had a big influence on Sonia’s vocal style which you can hear in her covers of Koko’s” Evil” and” Ernestine.”
The Band has developed over several years into a powerhouse backup for Sonia’s vocals. The electrifying sounds and skills of lead guitarist Andrew Goode were built playing in bands while growing up in London. The rock solid rhythm section is comprised of seasoned veterans of the local music scene, Dennis Ori on bass and Claude Calesini on drums. Franklin Silencieux on electric keyboard and Donnie V on rhythm guitar, both original members, help round out the band’s sound.
Sun. July 24, 2:30-4:15pm
The NuBlu Band
Bio & Videos
Carlise Guy is the daughter of seven-time Grammy Award-winning blues legend Buddy Guy. She is also the lead vocalist of the NuBlu Band, which blends blues, soul and R&B into their powerhouse performances that pay homage to their Chicago roots.
NuBlu has performed around the country and around the world, from huge outdoor festivals in Brazil to intimate nightclubs in Chicago. Performing with Carlise Guy are lead guitarist Mark Maddox, drummer Dan Henley, back-up vocalist Kenyatta Gaines, bass guitarist Michael Sterling, and keyboardist Dave Holloway.
Sun. July 24, 4:30-6:15pm
Demetria Taylor
Bio & Videos
Demetria Taylor is a rising star on today’s Chicago Blues scene. The daughter of Blues guitar legend Eddie Taylor, Demetria is from one of the “royal” Blues families in Chicago. Eddie is best known as the rhythm guitarist in the band of Jimmy Reed but he also had his own solo career and recorded some wonderful sides for the VJ label including the classic “Bad Boy”. Her mother Vera Taylor was also a blues singer. Demetria has fond memories of blues greats and friends of the family coming by the house– including Floyd Jones, Carey Bell, Sunnyland Slim, Johnny Littlejohn, Sam Lay, Willie Kent, Tail Dragger, Eddie Shaw, Johnny B. Moore and Magic Slim.
Her late brother Eddie Taylor Jr. was keeping their father’s iconic guitar style alive and well until Eddie Jr’s untimely passing in 2019. Demetria began her recording career with her brother in 2006 when her brother asked her to join him on his CD Mind Game on Wolf Records. Demetria has toured nationally and internationally and performs in many clubs and festivals including the Chicago Blues Festival. Her first album, Bad Girl, is on Delmark Records. Demetria was nominated in 2012 by the Blues Music Awards for “Best New Debut Artist”.
Headliner
Sun. July 24, 6:30-8:15pm
Nora Jean Bruso
Bio & Videos
Nora Jean Bruso is a Chicago Blues singer with deep Delta roots. Nora Jean Bruso was born in 1956 and grew up in Greenwood, a town in the heart of a blues-rich region. Nora was born into the world of music, as both her father and uncle were professional blues musicians and the mother gospel singer, the grandmother had a Juke Joint. Nora’s singing career began in 1976. She released a single, ‘Untrue Lover’ in 1982. Her first solo release came in 2002. Her 2004 album, ‘Going Back to Mississippi’ was nominated for a Blues Music Award for Traditional Blues Female Artist of the Year. Nora has been away from music since 2004, where she has cared for her now deceased mother. But in the midst of the world’s madness 2020, Nora returned to the absolute top of blues music with just as much power as when she left it. It proves the latest album “Blues Woman” where she sings with a power that tilts the soul out and leaves no doubt, especially when she sings the title song, “I’m A Blueswoman”. Nora was recently asked to open for, the living legend & 8x Grammy Award winner, Buddy Guy in Chicago at the renowned Buddy Guy’s Legends for his Residency Show in January 2022.
Saturday, July 30
Sat. July 30, 12:30-2:15pm
Dave Weld & The Imperial Flames
Bio & Videos
Dave Weld & The Imperial Flames, an authentic, real deal blues band, high energy with versatile talent, variety and a cohesive show that includes original driving houserockin’ blues, boogie and soul. The originals are dynamic innovations in the blues. The standards are revitalized with striking three part vocal harmony, three vocals stylists. Dave Weld, passionate slide guitarist, mentored by Grammy Winning Master and legendary slideman, J.B. Hutto, Mona Rose (Monica Myhre), a true blues diva and two-time Rami winner, a rock solid rhythm section consisting of Jeff Taylor, creamy voice and holding a solid beat on drums, Harry YaSeen, hitting the ivories piano/organ, tutored by the famous Art Hodes, Kenny Pickens well known Chicago bassman blazing on bass and the Mississippi saxman, Rogers Randle.
Sat. July 30, 2:30-4:15pm
Joe Jordan Tribute to Marvin Gaye
Bio & Videos
Where did the singer go who sounds even better in person than on recordings? The artist who personifies “cool”, whose vocals epitomize “smooth” and who can connect “intimately” with any audience? Joe has been a fixture in the Milwaukee, greater Wisconsin and surrounding Midwest cities since he first took to the stage as a high school senior with his band for a local talent contest.
His first two solo projects; “Can You Find Your Soul” and “Let’s Go To That Place” earned Joe Jordan three Wisconsin Area Music Award (WAMA) nominations including “Best R&B/Soul Artist”. Joe Jordan’s recent performances include Tribute Concerts to Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway & Teddy Pendergrass. Joe has also done backup vocals for American Idol vocalist Danny Gokey and opened for artists such as Anthony Hamilton, David Sanborn, Angie Stone, Elvis Costello and Tower of Power.
Joe performed sixteen seasons as the Lead vocalist for The Milwaukee Bucks house band Streetlife (www.streetlifemke.com), a fixture in the Milwaukee Jazz scene. Joe is also featured on two renowned Streetlife CD projects; “Live at the Red Mill” and “Live at Jazz in the Park”. Joe has been featured on CD projects from talented musicians such as Peter Mac, Chameleon, Edlin Jackson, Christopher’s Project and in the incomparable George Braith.
Jordan just finished his CD project. Give Love. It is preceded by Can You Find Your Soul, Let’s Go To That Place, and Songbook Soul.
Sat. July 30, 4:30-6:15pm
New Orleans Beau
Bio & Videos
New Orleans Beau, Lead Vocalist (Robert LeBeau Jr.) was born on March 4, 1967 and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, the oldest of three sons. BEAU’S talent was inherited and root founded by his grandfather Alvin Thomas and mother Lucy LeBeau, both long time professional singers who passed on the “Mardi Gras of flavors” in singing to BEAU during his childhood days. Beginning at the age of five BEAU was exposed to talent shows, city competitions, back yard galas and of course, those family and friends singing spin offs on the front porch, singing the blues and harmonizing on the good times. Those good old fashioned hometown memories will always play a part in BEAU’S performances.
Throughout BEAU’S national and international touring schedule he has performed with numerous entertainers and legends, most notably: The Chi-Lites, The Neville Brothers, Irma Thomas, Charmaine Neville, Melba Moore, Aaron Neville, Denise LaSalle, Bobby Rush, The Whispers, Willie Clayton, Little Milton and Buddy Guy. BEAU has also performed at many venues including: New Orleans House of Blues, The National Black Expo, New Orleans Jazz Fest, numerous clubs on the legendary Bourbon Street, Illinois Governor George Ryan’s Inaugural Ball, and Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White’s Inaugural Reception. BEAU has also made guest appearances on the Angela Hill Show and WGN Channel 9 Sound Stage.
BEAU’S talent goes beyond singing the Blues, R&B, Jazz, Gospel, Pop, and even Opera. He is also an accomplished bass guitarist and drummer. BEAU is a registered songwriter and producer to most of his music. BEAU is currently working on his sophomore blues album coming to you soon. You can get a preview of his original hits during his shows. You’re going to love it.
Headliner
Sat. July 30, 6:30-8:15pm
Ivy Ford
Bio & Videos
Ivy Ford, ‘Chicago’s Blues Kitten’. Ivy Ford is a versatile, talented, old soul. From singing the blues to being sultry, she is an indigo artist who’s gift connects those who are around her and those who listen. Whether leading a full band or serenading a small audience solo on stage, Ivy Ford commands an energy that is most magical.
Ivy Ford kick-started her career opening up for Buddy Guy in 2015; since then she’s performed bi-coastal North and South and ranked in the top 40 of the International Blues Challenge and released an original album “Time to Shine,” which is nominated for the 2018 Blues Blast Music Awards, soul blues album of the year.
Ivy Ford is the next generation of blues, roots and soul music. She’s a red lipstick wearing, guitar slinging showWOMAN to remember!
Sunday, July 31
Sun. July 31, 12:30-2:15pm
Eddie Butts Band
Bio & Videos
The Eddie Butts Band delights audiences at festivals, concerts, night clubs, weddings, and many other corporate and private entertainment events throughout the Midwest, delivering an exciting blend of R&B, pop, jazz, and more. Eddie is well known as a premier vocalist, and when you combine his smoky baritone with the highly-praised musicianship and vocal talents of this polished and professional band, it is easy to see why the Eddie Butts Band is considered a must-see — and must have — favorite.
Sun. July 31, 2:30-4:15pm
The NuBlu Band featuring Carlise Guy
Bio & Videos
Carlise Guy is the daughter of seven-time Grammy Award-winning blues legend Buddy Guy. She is also the lead vocalist of the NuBlu Band, which blends blues, soul and R&B into their powerhouse performances that pay homage to their Chicago roots.
NuBlu has performed around the country and around the world, from huge outdoor festivals in Brazil to intimate nightclubs in Chicago. Performing with Carlise Guy are lead guitarist Mark Maddox, drummer Dan Henley, back-up vocalist Kenyatta Gaines, bass guitarist Michael Sterling, and keyboardist Dave Holloway.
Sun. July 31, 4:30-6:15pm
Asama Johnson & The Associates of The Blues
Bio & Videos
This Unique and captivating Blues Band, Asamu Johnson and The Associates of The Blues have performed across the nation at various festivals, night clubs, and other venues. They have opened up for Blues legend such as Koko Taylor, Mud Morgan field and more. Asamu Johnson and The Associates have played at notable; venues such as Chenango Blues Fest in Norwich, New York; Teddy’s Juke Joint in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and the Pee Dee Blues Bash in Florence, South Carolina, BB King in Memphis and Buddy Guys Bar in Chicago. Asamu and the Associates became regional winners from west Michigan in The International Blues Festival two years and the row.
Headliner
Sun. July 31, 6:30-8:15pm
Mike Wheeler Band
Bio & Videos
Michael Lewis Wheeler (born June 30, 1961) is a Chicago blues songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist. His first gig was with Muddy Waters’ piano player, Lovie Lee. He performed with numerous Chicago bands and well-known artists such as Koko Taylor, Buddy Guy, and Shemekia Copeland. He formed his own band, the Mike Wheeler Band, in 2001.His CD, Self Made Man, was released by Delmark Records in 2012 with critical acclaim. He was inducted into the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame in 2014. He is a regular performer at the famed Chicago blues club, Kingston Mines