MAIN EVENT: 7 PM – 10 PM
HURRICANE REGGAE BAND
Based in the Chicagoland area, The Hurricane Reggae Band has made it their mission to bring positive Caribbean vibes to the ‘city of the big shoulders’ playing real ‘roots rock reggae’ with a modern twist. The band is led by bassist and lead vocalist Cleve ‘Hurricane’ Jean Jacques who has performed worldwide alongside acts such as calypso legend Mighty Sparrow, Ziggy Marley, Shaggy, Luciano, Arrow, Morgan Heritage and Steel Pulse. Originally hailing from the island of Dominica, Hurricane is now Chicago-based, where he enjoys playing the role of elder-statesman and musical ambassador.
The central hub of the band stays true to the traditional reggae pocket, creating an infectious pulse that guarantees to fill dance floors. Where The Hurricane Reggae Band ventures into uncharted territory is at the top end – with the ever-steady drumming of Kevan Watson(Drifter’s Review, Fortunes), and opting for fusion guitar in lieu of the customary blues approach. For this they call on Tommy Mitchell(Fortunes), who often attracts a crowd of his own with his boundary pushing melodic adventures. With this unique arrangement of elements, The Hurricane Reggae Band turns heads and gets bodies moving, drawing ever-growing crowds hungry to soak up those warm island vibrations.
VIP: 5 PM – 7 PM
LYNN HILTON
As a Composer, Arranger, Vocalist, Instrumentalist, Music Director, and Educator Ms. Hilton continues to expand her proven track record of professionalism, creativity and charisma. This modern-day Renaissance woman is one of the most sought-after musicians in the industry. Ms. Hilton energizes her audiences with charismatic and exciting performances, both nationally and internationally. According to Russia’s St. Petersburg Times: “Lynn Hilton captivates the most demanding audiences with her innovative style and wit.”
Beginning her musical journey as a teenager, Ms. Hilton was appointed musical director for the KUUMBA repertory theater in her native Chicago. She represented the U.S.A. in the International Festival of Song and Voice competition in San Juan Puerto Rico where she was awarded Best Arrangement and Best New Composer honors. Ms. Hilton continues to work on behalf of American Theatrical companies by serving as musical director for several theatrical productions. She continues her hallmark of excellence as composer of several theatrical scores, including Kasimu and the Coconut Palm (Runako Jahi), and Thunderstorm (Shongodina Ifatunji).
Continuously working the live jazz scene, Ms. Hilton is one of the most sought-after performers on stage and in the studio with her versatile repertoire that includes Jazz, Blues, Latin, Gospel, and today’s contemporary music. She has shared her unique performances with fans in many countries in Asia, the Caribbean, Middle East, South America, Africa, and Europe. Her unique keyboard and extraordinary vocal stylings have resulted in her affiliation with a variety of luminaries including Stevie Wonder, Morgana King, Jonathon Butler, Marion Meadows, Hugh Masekela, Steve Winwood, and Cyndi Lauper.
As a composer Ms. Hilton has written and arranged many national television and radio commercials often serving as composer, contractor, pianist, vocalist, voice-over announcer and was recently was commissioned to score a soon to be released independent film.
Currently Ms. Hilton teaches piano and voice privately both in-person and remotely.