Browsing: Michael Lepek Photography

Under a warm summer sky and the soft glow of a strawberry moon, blues legends Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ reunited as TajMo for an unforgettable evening of music, message, and musical kinship. Backed by a tight seven-piece band and joined by the electrifying Anne Harris on violin and vocals, the duo delivered a set steeped in joy, unity, and deep musical conversation—reminding everyone why their collaboration continues to strike such a powerful chord.

At a sold-out Thalia Hall, Bill Murray took to the stage with the Blood Brothers band for an unforgettable performance. Despite initial nerves, Murray’s charisma and passion for music shone through as he belted out hits like Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” and The Kinks’ “Tired of Waiting.” With an all-star cast, including blues veterans Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia, the night was a celebration of both Murray’s comedic charm and musical talent.

Whether it was a tale about Sonny Boy Williamson horning in on Otis Rush’s club gig or Musselwhite’s experience of penning his “Stranger in a Strange Land” as a new arrival to Chicago in 1962, Musselwhite’s stories were as engaging as the music that’s garnered him a Grammy win, numerous Blues Music awards and several other accolades.

Ivan Singh expressed his admiration for the Chicago blues tradition, before serving up his own Argentinian twist on the genre.