Dear Friends,

First, let me give a big thanks to my pals Don Stiernberg, Andy Brown and Jim Cox for putting on a spectacular show in my absence. Also thanks to Carl Ross and Sam Fishkin for handling all the technical details of the evening. It was such a success that I understand I've been let go. Oh well, it's been a nice run. Just kidding, we have another show to do, dammit!

I am writing this at 37,000 feet on my way back from my son's college graduation in Los Angeles. The weekend was a dreamy blur filled with sweet moments. The ceremony itself was spectacular, and afterward we held a gathering for Daniel and his USC friends and their families. Also at the party were friends Béa and I made way back when we were at Northwestern ... now living in Los Angeles. These folks, some of our closest friends, became Daniel's L.A. family away from home, and we are so grateful for them.

Throughout the weekend, evidence of the power of community was abundant. Daniel and his friends. Daniel and his professors. Our family and the families of those we love in California. And back here, my community of friends putting on a show for you all in my absence. And of course, you, the community of supporters of this series. I believe strongly in the power of music as a transformative force in society. Music makes us think, laugh, dance and weep, all because it helps connect us to our common humanity. Without community we are impoverished. Let us not forget that we are all wealthy, rich in the communities surrounding us. Each Thursday we celebrate the Chicago jazz community with an intimate performance by some of our finest musicians. You are all welcome to join us. Please do. It's your community, too.

Join us! The music is fantastic, the food and drinks are great, and it’s so affordable! What fun! In fact, more people = more fun! Your presence helps make it possible.

Thanks a million - and see you at the Whiskey Lounge!

PS Join us next week (5/28) when we welcome the Petra Van Nuis with Bobby Lewis and Andy Brown ... in a tribute to Peggy Lee! Stay tuned for more details … and as always, see the calendar below or click HERE for more upcoming shows.

Whiskey Lounge FAQs

(AKA the fine print about the series):

What is WDCB Live at the Whiskey Lounge?

Every Thursday evening, WDCB Live at the Whiskey Lounge presents small-group jazz in an intimate setting. Focusing on duets and trios, WDCB Live at the Whiskey Lounge draws from the deep well of extraordinary jazz instrumentalists and vocalists in the Chicago area. Emmy award winning composer Steve Rashid is the series host and an occasional performer. Chicago jazz station WDCB (90.9FM) is the series co-sponsor. WDCB Live at the Whiskey Lounge has a “house concert” feeling, allowing audience members an up-close look into the process and the intimate musical conversation that is the heart of a small ensemble. The beautiful second floor lounge of Evanston’s 27 Live provides an elegant, comfortable setting that is not only hip and urbane, but as comfortable as your living room. Come, order a drink, sample the great 27 Live menu, and sit up close to see and hear some of Chicago’s finest jazz musicians perform and discuss their craft.
Smart music and intelligent conversation for curious people.

I can’t make it this week! Oh no! Any way to watch online?

Don’t fret! We broadcast a live video stream over the internet for each show, as well as create a studio-quality multi-track audio recording. We are worldwide, baby. Come, be part of the broadcast – it's fun, and your physical presence makes this series possible. If you can't make it, tune in of course! Visit steverashidpresents.com just before showtime to watch us live. Feel free to pass on our website to your jazz fan friends in other areas -- then when we turn on the “audience cam” you can wave at them from the club! And if you missed it entirely, check out an archive of our previous shows HERE.

How did I get on this list?

My email list is my own, comprised of our friends and acquaintances, and others who have chosen to subscribe. I will only use this list for these occasional emails (no more than one per week), and will not share my list with others. Having said that, if for any reason you would not like to continue receiving these emails, please use the unsubscribe button below. Similarly, if you have been forwarded this email by a friend and would like to be added to my list, click here to sign up! See you at the Whiskey Lounge!