The legacies of the Loop, the city of Chicago and it's legendary music scene converged in a historic celebration Friday night at the House Of Blues. As soon as I took the stage to greet the sold-out crowd of Loyal Loopers and introduce UFO on stage, I sensed that we were in for a special night. The electricity in the room was palpable. One of Chicago's favorite bands UFO were back in town and unbeknownst to the crowd, the members of Metallica had quietly snuck in to catch the performance as well. Long time UFO fanatics, they were just as excited to be there as the rest of the audience. Backstage just prior, UFO drummer Andy Parker emerged from the restroom beaming. He had on the classic black Loop t-shirt he had asked me for last year. He became increasingly animated as he told me how big a fan he was of the Loop ("I've got the Loop sticker on my truck and I wore my old Loop shirt till it was in TATTERS!") and how he couldn't wait to wear his new Loop shirt on stage that night. When the crowd caught sight of us approaching the stage, they erupted. Feeding off the frenzy, UFO then proceeded to tear the roof off the place. Another bombastic show befitting their iconic status.

(See UFO perform "Only You Can Rock Me" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMrn4w3mGLw)

(See UFO perform "Lights Out" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeovskSANMU&NR=1)

Backstage after the show, Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett was eagerly telling UFO singer Phil Mogg that he was one of his all-time favorite vocalists and how legendary the Loop was when he caught sight of me. Grinning, he bounded over and began reminiscing with me about the crazy times we had shared in the past.

It was truly a memorable night for all. Here's hoping UFO returns to their second home soon... special things seem to happen.

This week on show from 10am-3pm: chances to win KISS tickets at 10:05am and 2:05pm each day, as well as Trans Siberian Orchestra tickets. A conversation with Rik Emmett of Triumph on Tuesday at 12:30pm, JY of Styx on Wednesday at 11:30am and daily at 1:15pm, I will be giving you "Byrd's Word Of The Day." Keep track of all 5 and you stand a chance to win an autographed guitar from Tesla on Friday at 1:15pm. Singer Jeff Keith of Tesla will join me Friday at 1:30pm with your chance to win tickets to their show this Saturday night at the Star Plaza Theatre, too.

Don't miss out!

This week on show on my show from 10am-3pm: Chances to win Black Crowes tickets all week at 10:05am and 2:05pm as well as tickets to Queensryche each day and conversations with Ritchie Blackmore of Deep Purple/Rainbow fame Wednesday at 12:30pm and UFO this Friday at 2:30pm.

I will be doing my show this Wednesday from Abbey Road Studios, London England!

That's right, I will be broadcasting my 10am-3pm show this Wednesday (09/09/09) from the legendary recording studios where the Beatles, Pink Floyd and many others recorded all their iconic works... Abbey Road Studios in London, England! Closed to the public, it will be a very rare behind the scenes trip into the private inner sanctum of some of the greatest artists of all time. Listen via 97.9 FM The Loop in Chicago, or worldwide at www.wlup.com.

Many special guests and surprises are planned. A splendid time is guaranteed for all... don't miss it!

How many bands can say they've legitimately inspired a whole sub-genre of imitators in this thing we call rock 'n' roll? A sound that is so recognizable and unique that merely mentioning the band's name becomes musical shorthand for a sound that every rocker instantly understands? The list is short: Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, Van Halen, the Beatles, Black Sabbath, Pink Floyd... and AC/DC. Of course, all of the aforementioned bands sounds were rooted in their inspirations (Angus Young has described AC/DC's sound as nothing more than Chuck Berry riffs on steroids), but what each band on "the list" did was take those early inspirations and develop a whole new and distinct sound from them. The AC/DC sound is a stripped down, primal experience delivered with punishing volume and precision. A sound that instantly elicits uncontrollable fist pumping, head nodding and devilish grins. Add in wildly unique innovations such as making the guitarist essentially the front man, hero and comic relief all rolled into one, it's a sound and approach that is inextricably linked to their legacy. This past Friday night at the United Center, AC/DC delivered a master class in front of another rabid, sold out crowd with the Loop. Better with each tour, they were simply awe inspiring.

(See AC/DC perform "Rock 'N' Roll Train" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y8BfJCyR3s)

(See AC/DC perform "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMaGp9WGWdE)

(See AC/DC perform "Shoot To Thrill" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z46LN3L6vUI)

(See AC/DC perform "Whole Lotta Rosie" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRJl5lEfbxk)

(See AC/DC perform "Back In Black" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x_e8vk8Tgo)

Opening for AC/DC's latest tour is a baby band out of Belfast, Ireland who show a great deal of promise. Called The Answer, the Loop was the very first station in the US to play their music, debuting on my show several years ago. Although the band didn't even have a American record deal at the time, they have made impressive strides since then. After winning over crowds at the three AC/DC shows in Chicago on this tour, the Answer performed their first ever headline gig in town Saturday night at the Beat Kitchen. Packed to the brim with enthusiastic Loyal Loopers, the guys put on a show that will become legendary years from now. "You saw the Answer at that tiny club?!? Wow!" Yup, you can say you were there.

(See The Answer perform "Under The Sky" live at the Beat Kitchen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Lpp4FV1ewg)

(See The Answer's latest video for "On And On" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6FSenxt9LA)

Joe Perry of Aerosmith's visit with me last week to give the scoop on Steven Tyler's condition after injuring himself falling off stage caused quite a stir. Press coverage of the event went worldwide, including CNN, USA Today, MSNBC, Huffington Post, Forbes, NY Times, People magazine and approximately 2,500 other TV, radio and newspaper outlets.

(See the Associated Press article on my interview with Joe Perry of Aerosmith here: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jQ52qaLSvIACj_E2JpA6uMr0012AD99UBT000)


(See the People magazine article on my interview with Joe Perry of Aerosmith here: http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20297512,00.html)

(Hear my interview with Joe Perry of Aerosmith here: http://www.wlup.com/checkitout/byrdJoePerry.aspx)

This week on my show from 10am -3pm on 97.9 the Loop in Chicago or www.wlup.com, win Creed tickets at 10:05am and 2:05pm daily as well as Dream Theatre tickets. Guests this week include Tony Iommi of Heaven & Hell this Tuesday at 12:30pm and George Thorogood on Thursday at 1:30pm. First listens to new music from KISS, Creed and George Thorogood, too!

I've always enjoyed spending some time having a few laughs with Joe Perry of Aerosmith when he swings through town, but this time was for a rather unfortunate and concerning reason that he found himself in Chicago nearly a month earlier than he had anticipated. Friday afternoon, Joe stopped by on my show to hang out and give me the scoop on Steven Tyler's condition and the tour.

AEROSMITH GUITARIST: TYLER BROKE SHOULDER IN FALL

By Carla K. Johnson (AP)

CHICAGO — Aerosmith lead singer Steven Tyler has a broken shoulder and stitches in his head after falling from the stage during a South Dakota concert, and the band plans to discuss what that means for the future of its current tour, guitarist Joe Perry said Friday.

Perry told The Associated Press after a stop at a Chicago radio station that Tyler has been flown to Boston and was meeting with his own doctor. Perry did not have further details on Tyler's condition and calls to representatives went unanswered Friday.

Tyler, 61, fell several feet while dancing around as the sound crew replaced a fuse that blew during the song "Love in an Elevator" at the Buffalo Chip Campground, which hosted the Wednesday night concert during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in western South Dakota. An amateur video showed him spinning around before falling off the stage.

Perry said Friday that his back was turned when Tyler fell, so he didn't see the lead singer go down. Perry said he hadn't had a chance to talk with Tyler yet and wasn't sure what made him lose his balance.

"I've seen it a thousand times, him dancing or just twirling around, doing a somersault, he's really agile, so I don't know," Perry said. "We're like kinda still in shock. What can you say? It's stuff that could happen to anybody."

The guitarist says band members planned to talk Friday about the tour. A show in Winnipeg, Canada, already was postponed but Perry said he wasn't sure what would happen with the remaining 18 tour dates. The band's Web site didn't mention other cancellations Friday evening.

"After we get on the phone call ... there will be some announcement that will give us some kind of idea what the future's gonna hold," Perry said during his interview on Chicago radio station WLUP-FM.

Perry said the band had to cancel only a couple of concerts during its first 25 years but has had a run of bad luck the last three years.

On June 28, Tyler hurt his leg at a concert in Uncasville, Conn., and the band had to postpone seven shows in July. Tyler also battled pneumonia before the tour began in June, while Perry fought a knee infection.

Associated Press Writer Carson Walker contributed to this report from Sturgis, S.D.

At least for now, the Loop's Aerosmith/ZZ Top show at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre August 28th is still scheduled to go ahead as planned. Keep it locked on 97.9 The Loop for developing details.

(See video of Steven Tyler of Aerosmith's accident here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoi97-Gljao)

(Hear my conversation with Joe Perry of Aerosmith here: http://www.wlup.com/checkitout/byrdJoePerry.aspx)

Joe has a new solo record called "Have Guitar, Will Travel" coming out in the fall (no pun intended) which he previewed during his visit. Titled by fans, he may want to consider re-titling his forthcoming solo album "When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemonade!" Indeed Joe did just that over the weekend, showing up at both Lollapalooza and the Jimmy Buffett show to jam as he mentioned he might during our conversation.

(See Joe Perry of Aerosmith guest with Jane's Addiction live at Lollapalooza in Grant Park here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_giKjrG4to)

(See Joe Perry of Aerosmith guest with Jimmy Buffett live at Toyota Park here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBkDXOFH6CM)

The super group/super friends Chickenfoot pulled out all the stops in a blazing Loop show Friday night at the Chicago Theatre before an enraptured, sold-out crowd of Loyal Loopers. Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony gave the Loop and myself copious props on-stage that night for our support of their debut disc. It was hardly a difficult decision to make... the album is downright fantastic!

(See Chickenfoot perform "Sexy Little Thing" live at the Chicago Theatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NhcoKgXmJI)

Coming up this week on my show from 10am-3pm on 97.9 FM The Loop in Chicago, a replay of the highlights of Joe Perry of Aerosmith's visit Monday at 12:30pm and a conversation with AC/DC this Thursday at 2:30pm. All this week, your chance to win tickets to see a Cubs game from the Wrigley Done Right rooftop at 10:05am and 2:05pm daily as well as Heaven & Hell tickets complete with backstage passes to meet the band when they play next Wednesday at Charter One Pavilion!

BULLETIN!!!

Joe Perry of Aerosmith will be stopping by my show at 2:30pm on Friday, and I will have the last 3 pairs of Chickenfoot tickets left available (including a pair in the 4th row!) to their sold-out show Friday night, plus AC/DC tickets at 10:05am and 2:05pm to give away!!!

Is it August already? As the saying goes "time sure flies when you're having fun", the sheer number and relentless frequency of great concerts, parties and events have made the months fly by. With many more still on the way, I suspect in the not too distant future we may look back on this summer/fall with a grin of wistful fondness.

Speaking of nostalgia, here's a couple links to some iconic Chicago party spots of yore. Fortunately, the Kinetic Playground has been resurrected... still waiting on the Thirsty Whale.

http://thirstywhale.com/

http://www.thekineticplayground.com/

Keeping with the nostalgia vibe, Twisted Sister has just released their first new original song in 22 years called "30." Part of the newly expanded, remixed and remastered 25th anniversary edition of their "Stay Hungry" disc, it captures the feeling incisively... and humorously.

(See Twisted Sister's video for their new song "30" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4Vv3wBsVjE)

This week on my show from 10am-3pm, win AC/DC tickets at 10:05am and 2:05pm daily, and tickets to see The Answer's solo gig next weekend as well. Guests this week include Dee Snider and J.J. French of Twisted Sister on Tuesday at 1:30pm, and Chickenfoot this Thursday at 11:30am.

Another great week for Loop shows in Chicagoland began with the 6 hour plus Cruefest 2 marathon at the First Midwest bank Amphitheatre this past Wednesday. Motley Crue marked the 20th anniversary of their "Dr. Feelgood" album by performing the work in it's entirety to begin their headlining set. Motley Crue didn't just perform the songs from "Dr. Feelgood" in note-perfect fashion, they even donned their stage attire and replicated the set (including the female background singers) from the original 1989 tour that supported the record. After a short intermission, the Crue retook the stage in their current garb and pounded out another set, this time focusing on their other classics as well as their most recent "Saints Of Los Angeles" to cap off the evening.

(See Motley Crue perform "Wild Side" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHu9DI_YtE4)

(See Motley Crue perform "Saints Of Los Angeles" live at the first Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSTqGAKSnu0)

(See Motley Crue perform "Sticky Sweet" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8Azu8xbPbw)

(See Motley Crue perform "Looks That Kill" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UhNheUgs2w)

Friday night saw the return of Ratt and Extreme to Chicago, this time together at the House Of Blues.

(See Ratt perform "Round & Round" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vv3m0DsKliQ)

(See Extreme perform "Decadence Dance" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tiAzdpvKOuw)

As we at the 97.9 The Loop rapidly approach our 33rd anniversary as Chicago's Rock Station, a film featurette was created to commemorate the occasion... and you, the Loyal Looper!

(See the Loop's anniversary featurette here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnbwCSck4TU&feature=channel_page)

Another piece of Chicago history took place this week as Mark Buerhle of the White Sox pitched a perfect game. We've all seen the play-by-play, but what was it like to actually be there in the stands?

(See the final 3 outs of Mark Buerhle's perfect game from the stands at US Cellular Field here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbUKKwxg248)

This week on my show from 10am-3pm, win Nickelback tickets plus the chance to go backstage as well as a trip to see them in Las Vegas in September daily at 10:05am and 2:05pm. During the noon hour, win "dinner and a show" prize packs. Guests this week include comedian Jim Breuer this Tuesday at 2:30pm and Joey Kramer of Aerosmith on Thursday at 1:30pm.

This past weekend was one stellar weekend for concert going in Chicagoland! Some of the most anticipated shows of the summer all fell within days (and sometimes merely hours) of each other all weekend. Friday saw the terrific Def Leppard/Poison/Cheap Trick triple bill at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre. Just as Phil Collen of Def Leppard, Bret Michaels of Poison and Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick all promised when they checked in with me during my show leading up to the concert, it was a night filled to the brim with hits and a party atmosphere. Killer sound and mind-blowing visual accompaniment merely topped off an already spectacular evening.

(See Def Leppard perform "Rock Rock Till You Drop" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0j3tv8ljpBk)

(See Def Leppard perform "Foolin'" live at the First Midwest bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EyHEex7dg3I)

(See Def Leppard perform "Rock Of Ages" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Y1DsW9AAhg)

(See Def Leppard perform "Pour Some Sugar On Me" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LM7AO4BzGI)

(See Def Leppard perform "Bringing On The Heartbreak" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKD741ToR-o)

(See Poison perform "Nothin' But A Good Time" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qr72Z3VyRdI)

(See Poison perform "Unskinny Bop" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3CyBtrB6xM)

(See Cheap Trick perform "Surrender" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s93Ecvi_TLs)

The other Loop mega-show this weekend took place Sunday at the Charter One Pavilion starring Judas Priest, Whitesnake and Pop Evil. Judas Priest celebrated the 30th anniversary of the release of their seminal "British Steel" disc by performing the album in it's entirety live for the very first time. Both Rob Halford of Judas Priest and David Coverdale of Whitesnake were in top-shelf vocal form for the concert, effortlessly nailing the tough vocal parts. Both the guys told me when they appeared on my show how excited they were about the upcoming pairing, and it showed. Revitalized and reinvigorated, both put in ferocious performances.

(See Judas Priest perform "Breaking The Law" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7f8anDsIpg)

(See Judas Priest perform "Living After Midnight" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45YCuiZ9wvk)

(See Judas Priest perform "Freewheel Burning" Live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVbsTsd-SbQ)

(See Judas Priest perform "The Ripper" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWqaVkPy9Cc)

See Whitesnake perform "Lay Down Your Love" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MG2vA9nHVRw)

(See Whitesnake perform "Still Of The Night" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Alf0VeiAan0)

(See Whitesnake perform "Slow & Easy" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMip9V9EJLI)

(See Whitesnake perform "Here I Go Again" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GozFyjhAgp0)

Saturday night saw the Black Crowes play the "Festival Of The Lakes in Hammond, and Candlebox at the House Of Blues.

(See the Black Crowes perform "Twice As Hard" live in Hammond here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4FxuBTxvxY)

(See Candlebox perform "Far Behind" live at House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQfCEFBLCSs&feature=related)

This week on my show from 10am-3pm, chances to win tickets to see Chickenfoot at 10:05am and 2:05pm daily, tickets to see Ratt and Extreme this Friday night during the noon hour every day and a conversation with Tommy Lee of Motley Crue this Wednesday at 11:30am.

This past weekend could very well have been dubbed the "First Annual Chicago Super-Duper Loyal Looper Celebratory Sing-a-Long Weekend" for the full-lunged enthusiasm and wild abandon with which Loyal Loopers greeted their favorite bands and each subsequent song.

First up was the sold out Styx/REO Speedwagon/.38 Special show at Charter One Pavilion at Northerly Island Friday night. Great bands, great location and great weather made for a truly memorable night that was "filled with hits" as James Young of Styx promised when he checked in with me on my show earlier in the week.

(See Styx perform "Come Sail Away" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGP57fsx1Wg)

(See REO Speedwagon perform "Roll With The Changes" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOQBZKSLxd0)

(See .38 Special perform "Hold On Loosely" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbabFeLvFAM)

Following in the "show us your hits" vein was the highly anticipated return of the Lynyrd Skynyrd/Kid Rock double bill Sunday at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre.

(See Lynyrd Skynyrd perform "What's Your Name" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uM7ngxhU44w)

(See Kid Rock perform "Rock and Roll Jesus" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stipQmbrKSc)

Thursday saw Davy Jones of the Monkees pop by my show with his band in tow to say hello and perform a few numbers live before his appearance the next night at "Railroad Days" in West Chicago. Few people on the planet can claim to have been present at the Beatles recording sessions for "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band", had Jimi Hendrix as an opening act, influenced the style of Loyal Looper Axl Rose of Guns N' Roses AND be recently voted the "#1 Teen Idol of all time"... but Davy can. I suspect I know what you're now thinking. "Wait a minute. Axl Rose was influenced by Davy Jones?!?" Yup. Pay attention to the dance moves.

(See Davy Jones and the Monkees video for "Daydream Believer" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2hPJ_3m-kc&feature=related)

(See Axl Rose and Guns N' Roses video for "Sweet Child Of Mine" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oobDQ0vdm8M)

(See Davy Jones perform "Pleasant Valley Sunday" live at Railroad Days here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_g9LFq90uc)

Busy week on my show from 10am-3pm! The Def Leppard/Poison/Cheap Trick concert is this Friday night at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre, so Bret Michaels of Poison will be joining me Tuesday and Phil Collen of Def Leppard on Wednesday. This Sunday at Charter One Pavilion the Judas Priest/Whitesnake double bill moves into town. A conversation with David Coverdale of Whitesnake Thursday on my show and Rob Halford of Judas Priest Friday, as well as your chance to score tickets to the show daily at 10:05am and 2:05pm and tickets to see UFO during the lunch hour. Phew!

Happy 4th Of July! Hope you got to enjoy some sun, fun, fireworks and bbq this weekend.

Several great shows and bands swept through town to help us celebrate the long weekend including Heart rocking at "Ribfest" Thursday night in Naperville. The Wilson sisters always deliver the goods, and this one was no exception.

(See Heart perform "Barracuda" live at Ribfest here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Miq4VBefkWk)

(See Heart perform "Crazy On You" live at Ribfest here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZC6WNQi8n8Q)

Friday and Saturday night saw a packed line-up for what will hopefully be an annual event at Toyota Park called the "Bridgeview MusicFest." With great sound, lights and easy access, the bill included Billy Squier, Lita Ford and Warrant among many others.

(See Warrant perform live at the "Bridgeview MusicFest" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0u-_osSLPUk)

Michael Schenker - for some the bridge between the Jimmy Page and Eddie Van Halen guitar styles, ferociously kicked off the week Monday night at the House Of Blues. The former precocious "boy wonder" of guitar was in stellar form, redeeming his tarnished reputation and reclaiming his status as one of the greats.

(See Michael Schenker perform "Into The Arena" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zloan8aZ3y8)

Speaking of bad reps, the loathed and detested former manger of both the Rolling Stones and latter-day Beatles (many claim he was one of the main factors in the break-up of the band) Allen Klein passed away over the weekend. He was famously skewered by John Belushi for his personality traits and business practices as "Ron Decline" in the brilliant 1978 film spoof/commentary about show business and the Beatles career entitled "The Rutles - All You Need Is Cash." A joint effort from members of Monty Python and the classic Saturday Night Live cast, it became the inspiration for a whole new genre of films including another famous mockumentary... "Spinal Tap." Hysterical performances, razor-sharp writing and cameos from Mick Jagger and Ron Wood of the Rolling Stones, George Harrison of the Beatles among many others, make this a gem of a film well worth searching out.

(See John Belushi portray Allen Klein as "Ron Decline" from the movie "The Rutles - All You Need Is Cash" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdjZSb0S7ZU)

(See more of John Belushi's portrayal of Allen Klein as "Ron Decline" from the movie "The Rutles - All You Need Is Cash" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HnGNuj9RL0)

Some big changes and re-tooling from the Blackhawks in the off-season. The Hawks pick up Hossa and Kopecky from our rival the Detroit Red Wings and lose Havlat and Khabibulin. More coming soon in the latest "Byrd's Puck Podcast", through www.wlup.com.

This week on my show from 10am-3pm, JY of Styx will be checking in Wednesday at 11:30am about their upcoming show this Friday night at Charter One Pavilion with REO Speedwagon and .38 Special. All week, chances to win tickets to both the NASCAR 300 and 400 races this weekend at the Chicagoland Speedway at 10:05am and 2:05pm daily, plus chances to win tickets to see the Lynyrd Skynyrd/Kid Rock show at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre this Sunday where I will be doing my show live from 3pm-7pm. See you there!

Quite a summer season it's turning out to be for guitar virtuosos visiting our fair city. First it was Jeff Beck, then Eric Clapton and on Friday night at the House Of Blues, Robin Trower... with more to come.

Robin Trower and his band put in a note-perfect, mind-blowing show.

(See Robin Trower perform "Bridge Of Sighs" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NqlNwAGwqdk)

(See Robin Trower perform "Too Rolling Stoned" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjXV3NCWnLI)

This Monday at the House Of Blues, the Loop presents another guitar legend, Michael Schenker. Schenker was a founding member of the Scorpions along with his brother Rudolph, former lead guitarist of seminal hard rockers UFO during their recorded-live-in-Chicago classic "Strangers In The Night" period and has led his own successful band since then.

(See the video for The Michael Schenker Band's song "Armed and Ready" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBsdYcZDglE&feature=PlayList&p=CC4FF8F941D91C3A&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=3)

(See Michael Schenker perform "Rock Bottom" with UFO live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qP_OqOJ8ug)

While we're on the topic of guitar gods, the Joe Satriani fueled super group Chickenfoot will indeed be coming back to town for another Loop show, this time at the Chicago Theatre August 7th. Even Nigel Tufnel of Spinal Tap is excited.

(See Nigel Tufnel of Spinal Tap give props to Joe Satriani here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3_dPrt7vSw&feature=related)

Because of the downturn in the economy, many people are opting these days for "stay-cations" with extra value. This 4th of July weekend, the Loop presents a phenominal 2-day event for those on a budget. Dubbed the "Bridgeview Musicfest", it features a robust line-up that includes Billy Squier, Warrant, Lita Ford, L.A. Guns, Lynch Mob, Enuff Z'Nuff, Off Broadway, Starship, Adler's Appetite (featuring former Guns N' Roses drummer Steven Adler), Over The Rainbow (featuring former Rainbow vocalist Joe Lynn Turner) and many more this Friday and Saturday at Toyota Park all for only $5.00 per day with fireworks included on the 4th!

(Click here for more info on the "Bridgeview Musicfest": http://www.bridgeviewmusicfest.com/)

(Click here and use the codeword "Loop" to get $5.00 tickets to the "Bridgeview Musicfest": http://www.wlup.com/music/concertcalendar/Listings.aspx)

This week on my show from 10am-3pm win tickets, backstage passes and more for the Def Leppard/Poison/Cheap Trick show July 17th at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre. Rick Neilsen of Cheap Trick will be joining me this Thursday at 1:30pm to tell us a little more about the show and their new CD entitled "The Latest." This is also your last week to win $10,000 with "10 Grand In Your Hand" daily at 10:05am and 2:05pm. Don't miss out!

Happy Father's Day!

The iconic Eric "Slowhand" Clapton made another musical pilgrimage to his spiritual home of Chicago this past Wednesday night. Playing classics from his solo career, Derek & The Dominoes, Cream and even Blind Faith with his old band mate Steve Winwood in tow, it was another memorable show from Clapton. Although he is of British and Canadian descent, Eric has long made it clear that the inspiration for his sound was rooted in the Chicago blues scene. So central to him is Chicago that he was reportedly furious upon leaving the Yardbirds in1965 that his replacement Jeff Beck and the rest of the band had managed to play a live concert here before he could. Ironic that in 2009 Jeff Beck once more played Chicago before "Slowhand"... 2 months and 1 day, to be exact. Not to be outdone, Eric invited local blues legend Buddy Guy on-stage with him to jam, just as he did back in 2007 when he brought his Crossroads Guitar Festival to Bridgeview's Toyota Park.

(See Eric Clapton perform "After Midnight" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXqvKY89DVs)

(See Eric Clapton perform "Crossroads" live at Toytota Park in 2007 here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yxWqsHX2mw)

(See Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy perform "Sweet Home Chicago" live at Toyota Park in 2007 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtmebR-vqNQ)

Eric Clapton's old pal George Harrison would be proud. George's son Dhani helped develop the forthcoming special edition "The Beatles: Rock Band" slated for release 09/09/09*, the same day the entire re-mastered Beatles catalogue gets it's release. "The Beatles: Rock Band" is a stunning achievement in gaming, raising the bar for all future releases of it's kind.

(See a preview of "The Beatles: Rock Band" here: http://www.thebeatlesrockband.com/)

All this week on my show from 10am-3pm, more chances to win $10,000 with "10 Grand In Your Hand" at 10:05am and 2:05pm each day as well as chances to win tickets to Cruefest 2 starring Motley Crue, Godsmack, Theory Of A Deadman, Drowning Pool and Charm City Devils July 22nd at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre. This Tuesday at 12:30pm, Tommy Lee of Motley Crue will be checking in with me to fill us in on what to expect. Don't miss out!


*John Lennon was very fascinated by the number 9 (he was born on the 9th of October in Liverpool, his son Sean also on October 9th) and titled numerous of his Beatles and solo songs employing the number 9, so convinced was he of it's significance in his life. Tragically, his murder would occur on the 9th of December, Liverpool time.

Just as they promised when they stopped by my 10am-3pm show to say hello and have a few laughs, Chickenfoot have indeed announced a return to Chicagoland with a Loop show at the Chicago Theater August 7th. Hope you had a chance to win free tickets from the Loop this weekend!

(See Chickenfoot visiting my show here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3MpmwcPQ1A)

(See Chickenfoot's video for their new song "Oh Yeah!" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKkxxLEBwBo)

Also stopping by the Loop studios this past Friday, Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry filled us in on their Loop show at Alpine Valley for Saturday night. Joe was very excited to tell us about the killer new sound and lighting system that they will be bringing out on this tour and that in addition to playing the "Toys In The Attic" album in it's entirety, they would be also be playing several rarely heard live songs this time around, including "Combination."

(See Aerosmith perform "Train Kept A-Rollin'" live at Alpine Valley here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aNxprwiZcY)

(See Aerosmith perform "Sweet Emotion" live at Alpine Valley here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BY5cIsE5Yz4)

(See Aerosmith perform "No More No More" live at Alpine Valley here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGfPIYxZxZ0)

You'll have another opportunity to catch this one-of-a-kind Aerosmith show August 28th at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre with ZZ Top. Tickets can be had through www.wlup.com.

All this week on my show from 10am-3pm, chances to win tickets to see Ratt and Extreme at the House Of Blues July 24th and Queensryche November 1st at the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet... and of course, $10,000! Don't miss out!

Guitar Hero: Van Halen won't officially be out until August 4th, but I've got a sneak preview for you.

(See a preview of Guitar Hero: Van Halen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA-S6m4vGBk)

Speaking of sneaks, any self-respecting rock star (or rock star wannabee) must dress the part. Converse has issued several limited edition rock-themed Chuck Taylor sneakers including Van Halen, Metallica, AC/DC, Pink Floyd, The Who, Ozzy Osbourne, The Doors, and Black Sabbath to aid you in your endeavor.

(See the rock-themed Chuck Taylor's here: http://www.classicsportshoes.com/converse-music-shoes.html#top)

Several years ago, I blogged to you that I had just caught a local Chicago band live who I thought were quite good and a band to watch. Fast forward a couple of years and my prediction came true. Nikki Sixx of Motley Crue agreed with me and subsequently signed the guys in The Last Vegas to his record label as well as having them open up for Motley Crue's winter tour. This past week, the guys dropped by my show once again to catch up and play their new song live before their gig at the Metro. Rave reviews from Billboard magazine, Spin magazine and inclusion in Guitar Hero II have made this a whirlwind 12 months for the band.

(See the video for The Last Vegas' new song "I'm Bad" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_F4_DG_5O8&feature=related)

Keep it locked on the Loop for word on more upcoming Chicago shows from Chickenfoot, Queensryche, Motorhead and more.

It was supposed to be an honor for Poison to play the Tony Awards, but it ended up breaking Bret Michaels' nose. D'oh!

(See Poison on the Tony Awards here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dA-AL90_RE)

Coming up all this week on my show from 10am-3pm, your chance to win tickets to the Loop's triple bill July 17th at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre featuring Def Leppard/Poison/Cheap Trick. Don't miss out!

The Blackhawks season came to a close this past week, but it was an exhilarating, nail-biting ride. A full five games (three against Detroit alone) in the post-season forced overtime to decide a winner. The Hawks final game was no exception. Trailing 3 games to 1 in the series, the Hawks needed a win to stay alive. In what may have been the most exciting final 30 seconds I have ever witnessed in a hockey game, the Detroit Red Wings mounted a desperate frenzy as they attempted to put the game winner past Blackhawks France-born backup goaltender Cristobal Huet before regulation time ran out. With less than 30 seconds left, Huet made the stop of his career to send it in to overtime. Was it skill? Was it luck? I don't know, but it was one hell of a "fantastique french foot flip!"

(See Blackhawks goaltender Cristobal Huet's last second save here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtfXK6JoRys)

Ultimately, the Wings scored in overtime to end the game and our season, but what a season! Here is a team that didn't even make the playoffs last year (actually they hadn't made the playoffs for the better part of a decade, but that's another story for another time) dispatching the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks to advance to round 3 against the defending champion, one round away from the Stanley Cup finals! In the last 18 months, the Blackhawks have made what Forbes magazine termed “... arguably the most remarkable turnaround in the history of sports in the United States.” How far have they come?

(See a video montage of the resurgence of the Blackhawks here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=690&id=40168)

Even cities we eliminated on our rise were cheering for us. I was interviewed last week by the flagship radio station for the Calgary Flames, "960 AM The Fan." Expecting a cool reception at best, I was surprised to find the hosts were as excited for us as we were. They breathlessly wanted to know what the atmosphere was like in town, and how fans and non-fans alike were reacting to the spectacular turnaround of our Original Six, heritage team. I simply told them..."The Roar Is Back... at The New Madhouse On Madison, baby!!!"

The similarities between the current Blackhawks team and the team that brought us our last Stanley Cup championship in 1961 are quite startling and somewhat eerie. Back then, we had a couple of youngsters (one fair-haired, the other dark maned) named Hull and Mikita who were the new "face" of the franchise. Young, fast and exceptionally talented, they were the jet-fuel the team needed to re-invigorate the fan base and excite the city, just as Kane and Toews are doing now. Anchored by veteran goaltending from Glenn Hall (Nikolai Khabibulin now) and a stunning upset of an aging arch-nemesis Detroit Red Wings by an upstart Blackhawks, and the picture is complete. Well... not quite yet. It took several tries before the 1961 team finally hit the jackpot, but hit it they did. That core group were a dominant force in the NHL for the next 10 years. I believe we may very well be witnessing history repeating itself.

(See the Blackhawks win the 1961 Stanley Cup in Detroit here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sB-csuX0GBk)

This past Thursday, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS joined me on my show from 10am-3pm to update me on the progress on their new album and summer tour plans. In the finishing stages of recording an "old-skool" KISS album, the guys were amped about releasing it and getting on the road. In an interesting concept, where the band will play this time around will be determined by fan demand. Would you like to see KISS in Chicago this summer? If so, cast your vote through www.wlup.com today!

KISS are legendary for their over-the-top shows. This weekend the actors/comedians behind the always competing, but seemingly always falling flat "other" band Spinal Tap presented some of their most infamous send-ups at the Chicago Theatre. Beyond hysterical, "This Is Spinal Tap" is a brilliant and viciously biting satire of the rock music business. Appropriately, their live performance was presented without a drummer. Perhaps they know better by now?

(See the movie trailer for "This Is Spinal Tap" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBllPEwjEJ4)

(See the infamous Spinal Tap scene "Goes to 11" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7IZZXQ89Oc&feature=related

(See Spinal Tap's creators perform live at the Chicago Theatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvxbLGTcZ7I)

This Friday during the lunch hour, local rock phenoms The Last Vegas will be stopping by my show to play live and give away copies of their new CD and tickets to their show that night at the Metro.

All this week from 10am-3pm on my show, chances to win tickets to the Judas Priest/Whitesnake show July 19th at Charter One Pavilion, and $10,000 with "10 Grand In Your Hand"at 10:05am and 2:05pm every day! Don't miss out!

Hope you had a terrific long weekend! It was certainly one full of activity. Newly formed super group Chickenfoot (Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony and Chad Smith) stopped by during my show Friday afternoon to have a few laughs and to talk about their formation, what to expect later that evening at their sold-out Loop show at the Park West and to play another new track from their debut CD set for release next week. Mike Anthony was in particular excited to be back in his hometown and it showed that night on stage. A ferocious performance from the band served ample notice that these "warm-up" gigs (before launching a larger tour later this year) were just the beginning of a new musical legend for these veteran players. Visibly re-energized, they gleefully cranked out nearly their entire repertoire of killer new songs along with a few crowd favorites as an encore. Mixing the crunchy power of early Montrose, the party-hearty fun of vintage Van Halen and more hooks than a bait & tackle shop, the new CD will undoubtedly delight Loyal Loopers.

(See Chickenfoot perform their new song "Sexy Little Thing" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmfF8Zgos7M&feature=related)

(See Chickenfoot perform their new song "Soap On A Rope" live at the Park West here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9NcBQOHvE4)

(See Chickenfoot perform the Montrose classic "Bad Motor Scooter" live at the Park West here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUF19cfkOJ8)

(See Chickenfoot perform the Deep Purple classic "Highway Star" live at the Park West here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CX1thdpt0is&feature=related)

Speaking of legends (as I hinted at during my show) AC/DC have indeed announced a return to Chicago August 14th at the United Center. Tickets for this Loop show go on sale next Saturday June 6th at 10am through www.wlup.com. Grab yours before they sell out!

(See AC/DC's video for their latest song "Anything Goes" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58t_ID_s9X8)

It was a roller coaster ride of emotions for Blackhawks fans this weekend as the youngest (and quite possibly the most talented and exciting) team in the NHL scored a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory at the United Center over the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the Detroit Red Wings Friday night. This was swiftly followed, however, with a 6-1 drubbing at home on Sunday. The Hawks are now in a tight spot, trailing 3 games to 1 in the best-of-seven conference final series. Next game is Wednesday in Detroit. Go Hawks!

Coming up this week on my show from 10am-3pm, your chance to grab free Cruefest 2 tickets, a conversation with Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS Thursday at 1:30pm and of course, your chance to win $10,000 just for listening with "10 Grand In Your Hand" each weekday at 10:05am and 2:05pm. If you haven't already entered your name to be called on the air to win the $10,000, do so today at www.listenerrewards.com/wlup!

In what has become Chicago's miracle on ice, the upstart Chicago Blackhawks have advanced to what amounts to the "final 4" against the defending Stanley Cup champions (and our 83 year long rival) the Detroit Red Wings in this years playoffs after dispatching the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks in rounds 1 & 2. In game 1 the Red Wings looked every bit the reining champs while the Hawks looked, well... a bit rusty and tentative after having to wait nearly a week to find out who they would face in round 3. Hawks goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin was stellar in the nets once again and kept us in the game until the 3rd period when the more experienced Wings methodically dissected our boys and won 5-2. Fortunately this is a best-of-7 round, so we have time to gather ourselves and make a push for our first championship since 1961. Game 2 is this Tuesday night in Detroit. Go Hawks!

While the Hawks had some time off between series', several players took in Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band at the United Center this past Tuesday night.

(See Bruce Springsteen perform "Born To Run" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_3_x9SPQyY)

Earlier in the day, Springsteen's guitarist (and Chicago native) Nils Lofgren checked in with me during my show to chat about that evenings show and to reminisce about his early days living in Chicago. Very excited to be back in his hometown, Nils promised another marathon Springsteen extravaganza, complete with a set list customized especially for Chicago.

All this week on my show from 10am - 3pm, your chance to win Styx/REO Speedwagon/.38 Special tickets for their July 10th concert at Charter One Pavilion.

This Wednesday during the lunch hour (12noon - 1pm) on my show, your last chance to win tickets to see the sold-out Chickenfoot show at the Park West this Friday night and meet n' greet passes to meet the band! Chickenfoot is a brand new "super group" featuring Sammy Hagar on vocals, Joe Satriani on guitar, Michael Anthony (also a Chicago native) of Van Halen on bass and Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers on drums. And during my show on Friday, don't be surprised if the guys "pop by" to have a few laughs and jam on a few tunes. Don't miss out!

(See Chickenfoot perform their new song "Oh Yeah!" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRzb-iSOIOI)

To get you ramped up for the long weekend, join me at Arlington Racetrack this Friday from 5pm-7pm for an '80's themed party with your chance to win Def Leppard/Poison/Cheap Trick or Cruefest 2 tickets if you "dress the part" and live music from U2 tribute act Elevation. See you there!

Metallica was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame last night. Besides putting pressure on the Hall to finally induct Deep Purple, Thin Lizzy, Rush, KISS, Ted Nugent, Alice Cooper, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest and Motorhead and getting to play some of their classics in front of the star-studded crowd, Metallica then pulled some of the luminaries on stage with them for an all-star grand finale jam. Joining them were former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted, Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Ron Wood of the Rolling Stones, Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Jeff Beck. Heady day for the guys!

(See Metallica and friends perform "Train Kept A-Rollin'" live at the 2009 RRHOF here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2vnrIcEVvg)

(See Metallica perform "Master Of Puppets" live at the 2009 RRHOF here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8B2Zj7X-ex4)

(See Metallica perform "Enter Sandman" live at the 2009 RRHOF here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-ApMjaHk-k)

In case you missed Metallica's amazing two night stand recently here in Chicago, don't forget that you can download them through www.livemetallica.com.

Chicago is the greatest city in the world... and we now have even more believers. Chicago got some serious love from the website askmen.com this week, ranking it the best city in the world in which to live. I couldn't agree more! Click to see their findings here:

http://www.askmen.com/specials/2009_top_29/chicago.html

http://www.askmen.com/fine_living/destination/chicago.html

All this week on my show from 10am-3pm, your chance to win tickets to see Chris Cornell (former vocalist for Soundgarden and Audioslave) April 19th at the Riv.

Baseball is back! I will have more hard-to-find White Sox memorabilia to give away to commemorate their home opener Tuesday (rescheduled from Monday) during my show, and I will be doing my show live from the Red Ivy in Wrigleyville (www.redivychicago.com) next Monday April 13th to celebrate the Cubs home opener. See you there!

All 65,000 tickets for U2's concert September 12th at Soldier Field sold out in record time today, so a second show was added for the following day September 13th. Tickets go on sale next Monday April 6th at 10am through www.wlup.com.

(See U2 perform "Sunday Bloody Sunday" live at the United Center in 2005 here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_-Ft5iBFZQ)

(See U2 perform "Bullet The Blue Sky" live at the United Center in 2005 here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6nzA5gtBUY&feature=related)

Caught the Cheech & Chong reunion tour at the Genesee Theatre last night. Nearly 25 years apart did nothing to dull their killer comedic chops. Mixing classic and new routines, they were absolutely hilarious.

Yesterday also saw the release of the much-anticipated "Guitar Hero - Metallica." Set to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame this coming weekend, Metallica are on a monumental roll. Not too much to have a little fun, however.

(See Metallica's commercial for "Guitar Hero - Metallica" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0TPodgomLs)

(See my recent backstage conversation with Lars Ulrich of Metallica here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4XI78zONo0)

ZZ Top will be taping an episode of "VH1 Storytellers" at the Congress Theatre this Wednesday night. Keep listening for your chance to win these exclusive tickets from the Loop!

Playoff tickets for the Blackhawks go on sale tomorrow. With the team leading the league in attendance season (selling out every home game this season) and making the playoffs for the first time in 7 years, you can bet these tickets will go fast.

All this week on my show from 10am-3pm, your chance to win tickets to see a great triple bill with Styx/REO Speedwagon/.38 Special at Charter One July 10th. Good luck!

Metal is for muthas... and their kids, too!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_Y9zWjCzuM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdOfUcEyWqk&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Xx-_MG3i6E&feature=related

All this week on my show from 10am-3pm, a chance to win tickets to Cruefest2 and copies of the special reissue of Pearl Jam's massive selling debut album "10."

This Friday night from 8pm-10pm at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, come join Guy Bauer and myself as we face off with you (and each other) in a Rock Band tournament. Go to www.harrahs.com/rockband to enter yourself. It's going to be a blast!

Others shows this week include the Eagles Thursday night at the Sears Centre, Black Label Society and Sevendust Saturday night at the Congress as well as Bret Michaels at Joe's and Cheech & Chong Sunday night at the Genesee. Footnote: Robin Williams' show at the Rosemont on Friday has been cancelled due to his heart surgery.

Welcome to the year of Metallica. Due to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in April, the subject of the latest installment of "Guitar Hero" in March, and with a brilliant new CD "Death Magnetic" already racking up rave reviews and double platinum sales in the US alone, 2009 will be the year Metallica re-establishes their dominance in the world of metal. Consider this; only Aerosmith, AC/DC and Led Zeppelin have outsold Metallica in the hard rock field and all three have been in existence a significantly longer time. Metallica has now sold more records here at home than (in descending order) Van Halen, Guns N' Roses, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Queen, The Doors, Boston, Pearl Jam, Tom Petty, Ozzy, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rush, Nirvana, ZZ Top, Motley Crue, The Police, Jimi Hendrix, among others. Wow!

The best part? They'll be here tomorrow and Tuesday night at the Allstate Arena. Don't forget I'll be doing my show live from both concerts, bringing you the sights, sounds and bombast that is a Metallica performance. See you there!

(See Metallica's video for their new song "All Nightmare Long" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1GsZPLqA6M)

Geoff Tate of Queensryche checked in with me this past Thursday night to update me about their forthcoming CD "American Soldier" and their upcoming tour. Geoff said the band would be performing extended sets of music from their "Rage For Order", "Empire" and "American Soldier" discs. All this week on my show, your chance to win tickets to see the return of Queensryche May 7th and 8th at the House Of Blues.

As promised, here are the totals from the 3rd annual "Byrd For Birds" food drive. This year more than 10 tons of food and more than $15,000 in cash donations were donated by Loyal Loopers... enough to provide meals for some 70,000 Chicagoans in need! As you might imagine in these times of economic challenges, the Greater Chicago Food Depository is being called upon to provide meals for significantly more people than in past years. If you were unable to get by the Merchandise Mart with a donation, but would still like to contribute a frozen turkey, non-perishable food item or simply to donate some money to have these items purchased in your name, you can contact the Greater Chicago Food Depository directly at 773-247-FOOD or log onto www.chicagosfoodbank.org.

Once again, my heartfelt thanks to the Loyal Loopers who took the time to share with others and my fellow Loop staffers who helped make it all possible again this year. You guys and gals are the best!

All this week on my show, your last chance to win tickets to see the Loop present Metallica next Monday and Tuesday nights at the Allstate Arena. Don't miss out! In addition to tickets every night this week between 7pm-12midnight, I will be broadcasting my show live from the concerts next Monday and Tuesday nights. If you are attending one (or both) of the shows, please stop by and say hello!

(See Metallica perform "Cyanide" live on TV here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8hTU9fLVgM)

(See Metallica's video for "All Nightmare Long" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bh_KF_ugRE)

(See Metallica's video for "The Day That Never Comes" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yErdJpg1ECg)

Coming up this week on the show, a conversation with Slash Thursday night at 9:30pm, the chance to win tickets to see Bret Michaels upcoming local stop on the "Rock Of Love Bus Tour" and Jimi Hendrix CD/DVD prize packs each night.

Welcome to 2009!

The brains behind the massively successful annual Trans Siberian Orchestra tours and multi-platinum discs, Paul O'Neill informed me during our on-air conversation several weeks ago that they had doubled the lights and pyro effects this year to up the ante... and he wasn't kidding. Seeing is believing.

(See Trans Siberian Orchestra perform "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo" live at the Allstate Arena here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9jXfA8BhCw)

(See more of Trans Siberian Orchestra live at the Allstate Arena here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpKitAGUDGg)

The attention to detail with the "Winter Classic" between the Blackhawks and Red Wings was also a sight to behold. Even though we ended up on the losing side in the actual game, the event was a runaway success for Chicago and the Hawks. The national TV audience was the biggest to date and amply demonstrated to the world (along with the Obama Grant Park celebration) that we sure know how to throw a spectacular party here. Let's hope those folks from the International Olympic Committee were paying attention.

This week on the show, win tickets to 3 Doors Down/Seether February 21st at the Venue and a conversation with Pat Travers Wednesday night at 9:30pm.