Published January 2025
Chicago is a major player in the American music scene - some of the best sounds and hottest new artists find themselves in our great city. We scoured through some of the local talent (with help from some of you) and found some new local favorites that you should definitely be listening to.
Oh, and this is just our first Volume, so if you don't see your fav, keep a lookout for the next one!
Photo: Instagram/Rheathesecond
Rhea The Second | @rheathesecond
Genre: Dance-Pop/R&B/Multi-Genre
Rhea The Second is already a staple in the Chicago scene and is on a fast track to becoming a global one. You may already recognize her sound as she's worked with powerhouses like NoName, Leon Bridges, Akenya, and Tony Moran and has performed at Pitchfork (RIP) and Coachella! Inspired by artists like Donna Summer and Janet Jackson, Rhea The Second bends and blends genres and paints stories with her work. Her next show is at Cole's Bar on February 23rd - enter below to win tickets!
Take a Listen here:
Photo: PROVIDED BY ARTIST
Jennifer Hall | @jenniferhallmusic
Genre: Indie Pop
Raw, vulnerable vocals spread on top of cinematic soundscapes is just one flavor of music Jennifer Hall will give you. Her song "Belonging Forever" reminds us of the haunting pop of the 80s, with deep synths dancing so delicately with her voice. She is a must-listen for those who need to purge some feelings. Jennifer is working on a new record, so keep an eye on her or catch her for her next show! She's letting us give away some *sick* merch - so enter to win an official Jennifer Hall hoodie and a beanie!
Take a Listen Here:
Photo: Instagram/Pink Squeeze
Pinksqueeze
Genre: Indie Rock / Queer Power Pop
Be Gay Have Fun, not only is that the name of one of Pinksqueeze's albums, but it's essentially their mantra. Their songs are rooted in community and joy and that's exactly what you'll feel after seeing them live. With witty lyrics and an affinity for color, Pinksqueeze is here to bring in some light in the darkness.
Take a Listen Here:
Photo: PROVIDED BY ARTIST
Tommy Bravos | @tommybravos
Genre:
Tommy Bravos is Chicago’s very own Greek god. A self-described "Child of Apollo,” Tommy’s music features themes of nature, fantasy, queerness, and human philosophy. Fusing Greek folk, pop and bossa nova, his discography and performances are like no other. Listen to his dreamy new EP Everything is Growing, Am I? and enter for a chance to win two tickets to his next show on 2/15!
Take a Listen Here:
Photo: Instagram/illville_vanguard
Illville Vanguard | @illville_vanguard
Genre: Multi-genre (Jazz, Gospel, Funk, Hip-Hop, Latin, Neo-soul)
Illville Vanguard brings a fresh take on multi-genre. With influences from jazz to hip-hop, their sound is truly unique and their drive for finding new sounds is what makes their live shows an unforgettable experience.
Take a Listen Here:
Photo Provided by Wht.rbbt..obj
wht.rbbt.obj | @wht.rbbt.obj
Genre: Indie Blues/Lounge
wht.rbbt.obj pronounced "White Rabbit Object" is composed of a musical power-couple, Frank and River Rabbitte. Besides their obvious chemistry onstage, these two provide the perfect balance of drama, emotiveness, and style to their performances. Keep a lookout for their new EP, Oscar Bravo Juliett out this summer.
Take a Listen Here:
Photo: PROVIDED BY ARTIST
Won't Stay Dead | @wontstaydead
Genre: Horrorpunk
The members of Won't Stay Dead come from deep within the Chicago punk scene and have made a name for themselves through their catchy hooks, chilling harmonies, and macabre lyrics. With several of their songs inspired directly from famous horror films, Won't Stay Dead is a must-listen for those of us drawn to the more taboo sides of life. Enter to win tickets for their next show on 3/15 at Reggie's Music!
Take a Listen Here:
Photo: Facebook/French Police Band
French Police | @frenchpoliceband
Genre: Darkwave
Sometimes you just need to vanish into your feelings to get out on the other side. The music of French Police can absolutely help you with that with songs that explore dark themes alongside upbeat sounds.
Take a Listen Here:
Photo: Instagram/lefetedufunk
La Fete du Funke | @lafetedufunk
Genre: Disco Rock Band
Equal parts 1970s rock and disco, La Fete du Funke has the attitude, style, and flair of decades past. Their live shows are nothing less than a full disco experience with the crowd getting into the theme just as much as them! Their next show, STUDIO FIFTY FUR, is on February 15th at Ephiphany Center for the Arts - so pull up decked out!
Photo: The Flourescents Webpage
Fluorescents
Genre: Post-Pop-Punk
The new wave of pop-punk is here! You may have caught them making a splash on your TikTok feed, but the Fluorescents are Chicago-based! Coming in hard with the nostalgic vibes of 2000s pop punk, these three vocalists are known for big production shows and adding modernity to old-school sounds.
Take a Listen Here:
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Got a local band that you love? Let us know for our next article! Email us at [email protected]
