Buddy Guy to Rock Chicago Street Race Weekend: The Chicago Street Race Weekend is set to offer an exhilarating blend of racing and world-class entertainment. NASCAR has announced that legendary Chicago blues musician Buddy Guy will perform a special set on Saturday, July 6, adding a unique cultural touch to the event. Known as one of Rolling Stone’s “greatest guitarists of all time,” Guy will bring his hallmark Chicago Blues sound to the main stage, following a 40th Anniversary Chicago House Music showcase. This exciting announcement highlights the event’s commitment to celebrating the rich musical heritage of Chicago while providing a thrilling experience for race fans.
Buddy Guy to Perform at Chicago Street Race Weekend
Today, NASCAR announced an exciting addition to the Chicago Street Race Weekend lineup: Chicago’s own legendary blues musician, Buddy Guy. The event, scheduled for Saturday, July 6, will feature a special set by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. Known as one of Rolling Stone’s “greatest guitarists of all time,” Guy will bring his signature Chicago Blues sound to the main stage.
Guy’s performance will follow a 40th Anniversary Chicago House Music showcase, highlighting the rich musical heritage of the city. This showcase and Guy’s set aim to celebrate Chicago’s influential music scene. The event promises to be a highlight of the weekend, drawing both music and racing fans.
“Last year’s Chicago Street Race was a great opportunity to put Chicago center-stage and I’m excited to join the lineup,” said Guy. “The Blues is like gumbo. I can tell you how good it is, but you won’t know until you taste it for yourself. I’m looking forward to the chance to introduce more fans to that Chicago feel, Chicago flavor, and most importantly – that Chicago sound.”
The inclusion of Buddy Guy in the lineup is a nod to the cultural significance of Chicago Blues. Fans can expect an authentic experience that captures the essence of Chicago’s musical history. The event organizers are confident that Guy’s performance will resonate with attendees and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the race weekend.
Buddy Guy’s Legacy and Influence
Buddy Guy is more than just a performer; he is a cornerstone of Chicago’s musical history. A Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Guy has significantly influenced rock legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. His pioneering work in Chicago’s West Side sound has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Guy’s accolades include eight GRAMMY Awards, a 2015 Lifetime Achievement GRAMMY Award, and an unprecedented 38 Blues Music Awards. His contribution to music has also been recognized with the Billboard Magazine Century Award for distinguished artistic achievement, a Kennedy Center Honor, and the Presidential National Medal of Arts.
Rolling Stone ranks Guy at #23 on its list of “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.” His style, a blend of traditional blues with rock influences, continues to inspire musicians worldwide. Guy’s performance at the Chicago Street Race Weekend is expected to be a testament to his enduring legacy.
In his own words, Guy likened the blues to gumbo, emphasizing the need to experience it firsthand. “The Blues is like gumbo. I can tell you how good it is, but you won’t know until you taste it for yourself,” he said. His set will be an opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the rich, soulful sounds that define Chicago Blues.
Julie Giese’s Vision for the Event
Julie Giese, President of the Chicago Street Race, emphasized the importance of showcasing Chicago’s cultural assets. Giese highlighted Buddy Guy as a perfect representation of Chicago’s music scene. His participation is expected to add a distinctive Chicago flavor to the event.
“Whether it’s our food and beverage, corporate sponsors, community partners, and certainly our entertainment, we want to make sure we’re showcasing Chicago to a global audience of millions,” said Julie Giese, Chicago Street Race President. “When you think about Chicago music, you think about Buddy Guy, so we know his set will add to the signature Chicago experience for our race attendees.”
The inclusion of diverse musical acts aligns with Giese’s vision of a multifaceted event that appeals to a wide audience. By integrating iconic Chicago musicians like Buddy Guy, the event aims to create a memorable experience that goes beyond racing. The music acts serve as a bridge, connecting the cultural and sporting aspects of the weekend.
House Music 40th Anniversary Celebration
The Chicago Street Race Weekend will also celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Chicago House Music, an influential genre born in the city. This special showcase will precede Buddy Guy’s set, featuring a lineup of iconic house music artists who have shaped the genre over the decades.
The House Music 40th Anniversary Celebration will include performances by Bad Boy Bill, Byron Stingily (Ten City), Chip E., Curtis McClain, Dajae, The Good Girls (DJ Lady D, Lori Branch & Vitigrrl), Lidell Townsell, Marshall Jefferson, Maurice Joshua, The Outhere Brothers, Ralphi Rosario, Wayne Williams of the Chosen Few, and White Knight. These artists represent the pioneering spirit and enduring legacy of Chicago House Music.
This segment of the event aims to highlight the impact of house music on the global music scene. From its origins in Chicago’s underground clubs to its influence on contemporary electronic dance music, house music has a rich history worth celebrating. The anniversary showcase is a tribute to the genre’s pioneers and their contributions.
The house music showcase will provide a vibrant and energetic start to the day’s musical performances. Following this celebration, Buddy Guy’s blues set will offer a contrasting yet complementary musical experience. This transition from house music to blues underscores the diversity and richness of Chicago’s musical heritage.
Performance Schedule and Closing Acts
Following Buddy Guy’s performance, the NASCAR Xfinity Series race, The Loop 110, will take place. This race is set to be broadcast nationally on NBC, providing extensive coverage and exposure for the event. The integration of high-profile musical performances with the racing schedule is designed to enhance the overall experience for attendees.
Later in the day, The Black Keys, one of the most successful rock bands of the last two decades, will perform from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. CT. Known for their gritty, blues-infused rock sound, The Black Keys are expected to deliver a powerful performance that will captivate the audience.
The evening will culminate with a performance by global superstars The Chainsmokers from 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. CT. Their set will follow a special NASCAR Cup Series driver reveal, adding an element of excitement and anticipation. The Chainsmokers’ return to the Chicago Street Race Weekend is highly anticipated, promising a dynamic and energetic show.
On the following day, Sunday, global country superstars Keith Urban and Lauren Alaina will headline the events at Grant Park. Their performances will bring a different musical flavor to the weekend, appealing to country music fans. This diverse lineup ensures that the event offers something for everyone, making it a truly inclusive celebration.
The carefully curated schedule of performances, featuring a blend of blues, rock, electronic, and country music, reflects the organizers’ commitment to creating a unique and memorable experience. The Chicago Street Race Weekend promises to be an event that not only celebrates motorsport but also showcases the rich and diverse cultural tapestry of Chicago.
News in Brief: Buddy Guy to Rock Chicago Street Race Weekend
The Chicago Street Race Weekend is poised to be an unforgettable event, seamlessly blending the excitement of NASCAR racing with the rich cultural tapestry of Chicago’s music scene. With Buddy Guy’s iconic blues performance, a celebration of 40 years of house music, and headlining acts like The Black Keys, The Chainsmokers, Keith Urban, and Lauren Alaina, attendees are in for a diverse and dynamic experience.
Julie Giese’s vision of highlights Chicago to a global audience is realized through this unique combination of sports and world-class entertainment. As the city takes center stage, fans will witness a celebration of Chicago’s musical legacy and the thrilling spectacle of street racing, making it a weekend to remember.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many laps are in the Chicago NASCAR race?
A. After clinching a race win, Shane van Gisbergen left Supercars in 2024 to pursue a full-time NASCAR career in the United States. On October 20, 2023, NASCAR announced changes to the 2024 Cup Series Chicago Street Race, reducing it from 220 miles (100 laps) to 165 miles (75 laps).
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