I haven’t run into too many gospel rappers in my protracted dallying with the music business, but horizons can continually expand, and in my search for singer/songwriters residing in our local music mecca, I was …
Posts by Ray Miner:
Great Cover-Up 31 bringing tradition and fun back to C-U once again
Are you familiar with Champaign-Urbana’s Great Cover-Up? It’s a weekend of music that raises money for local charities, held once again this year at the Rose Bowl Tavern. The event features local bands and individuals …
Behind the curtain: Unveiling the magic of show booking at the Virginia Theatre
I have recently had the pleasure of attending a couple of excellent concerts at the Virginia Theatre in Champaign: Pat Metheny and Lyle Lovett and his Large Band. As I sat there enjoying the concerts, …
Lyle Lovett and Champaign in mutual love affair Friday night
When recording artist Lyle Lovett says he travels with a large band, he isn’t kidding. He brought his Large Band, including horns, electric, acoustic, bass, steel guitars, violin, piano, drums, and background vocalists to Champaign …
A harmonious rhapsody at The Virginia Theatre with Pat Metheny
Editor’s Note: Photos weren’t allowed during the performance. The photos in this review of Mr. Metheny are from his social media. Jazz aficionado and eminent guitarist Pat Metheny, the recipient of 20 Grammy Awards across …
Tom Faux’s musical journey to C4A
I recently sat down with Tom Faux, music professor at Illinois State University and one of the founders of Community Center for the Arts (C4A) — an oasis for music lovers of all ages and …