Chicago musical institutions Kevin Cronin and REO Speedwagon rolled into the Star Plaza Theatre this past weekend with a party in tow for Loyal Loopers. Always a guaranteed good time, the Midwest's hardest working band delivered another knockout with their patented enthusiasm and road-honed chops.

(See REO Speedwagon perform "Roll With The Changes" live at the Star Plaza Theatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53OAAJ3c9HQ)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: win $100.00 per hour as the Loop's "Workforce Payroll" returns. Make sure we have your name so we can give you yours! http://www.wlup.com/contests/WorkforcePayroll2011.aspx

Also this week, win tickets daily to the just announced Journey/Foreigner/Night Ranger show.

(See Journey's video for "Any Way You Want It" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atxUuldUcfI&feature=related)

(See Foreigner perform "Jukebox Hero" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5_qhnWByA4)

(See Night Ranger perform "Don't Tell Me You Love Me" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iURWJEmeBI)

As promised, here are the totals from my 5th annual "Byrd For Birds" food drive. This year another 8 tons of food and more than $18,000 in cash donations were donated by Loyal Loopers. To date, nearly 100 tons of food and $100,000 in cash donations have been raised for 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!

Kid Rock's love of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Seger and all things classic rock was in full evidence once again this past weekend.

(See Kid Rock perform a special version of "All Summer Long" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUPTLId5vB0)

In fact the Loop is bringing Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Seger, Yes, .38 Special, Bon Jovi, Thin Lizzy, UFO, Rush, Jethro Tull, U2, Def Leppard, Heart and many more to town in the next few months. Get the complete list here: www.wlup.com/music/concertcalendar/listings.aspx

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: win tickets to the Def Leppard/Heart concert daily at 5:05pm, and win tickets to see Yes each day as well.

(See Def Leppard's video for "Photograph" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZ5bS3_BCDs)

(See Heart's video for "Barracuda" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q74u5Mo4Onw)

(See Yes perform "Roundabout" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xql99I1VSdI)

As a teenager, Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister was there furiously taking notes during early Beatles shows at Liverpool's Cavern Club. A few years later, Lemmy was hauling around equipment as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix. Fast forward some 40 years and his dedication and love for rock & roll is undiminished. This past weekend saw Lemmy and his band Motorhead mark their 35th anniversary with a contagious and ear-splitting celebration of his beloved vocation before a sold-out crowd at the Congress Theater.

(See Lemmy and Motorhead perform "Ace Of Spades" live at the Congress Theater here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRFGaTHVNak)

(See Lemmy and Motorhead perform "Louie, Louie" live on television here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PNX9leguuA)

(See my conversation with Lemmy of Motorhead here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXtUv1E-jAQ)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: win tickets to see REO Speedwagon daily, as well as conversation with David Coverdale of Whitesnake this Friday at 5:30pm.

(See REO Speedwagon perform "157 Riverside Avenue" live here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSKAdlCMcCM)

(See Whitesnake's video for "Here I Go Again" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3MXiTeH_Pg&feature=relmfu)

(See Whitesnake's video for their brand new song "Love Will Set You Free" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOwd30wXc-0)

Fresh off his halftime cameo at the Superbowl, Slash presented Chicago with a unique Valentine's Day gift this past weekend. Before a roaring crowd of Loyal Loopers, Slash and Myles Kennedy of Alterbridge ripped through numerous Guns N' Roses and Velvet Revolver classics and then brought local hero Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick on-stage to jam on Cheap Trick's version of "Ain't That A Shame."

(See Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick, Slash and Myles Kennedy perform "Ain't That A Shame" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7BcCTtgOFU)

(See Slash and Myles Kennedy perform Guns N' Roses' "Rocket Queen" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PiUsRiKJdQ)

(See Slash and Myles Kennedy perform Guns N' Roses' "Civil War" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I7Gz9GmJPU)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: a chance to win an all-inclusive trip for two to Riviera Maya, Mexico each day at 5:05pm! http://www.wlup.com/contests/8-10-2-5/MexicoTrip-end20110218.aspx

We lost another guitar great this weekend. Gary Moore, best known for time in Thin Lizzy was found dead while vacationing in Spain. He was only 58. While Gary only appeared in recorded form occasionally (most notably on the Thin Lizzy album "Black Rose"), he spent nearly a decade involved on and off with Lizzy.

(See Gary Moore with Thin Lizzy in the video for the song "Waiting For An Alibi" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLjMmZ8D0E4)

This weekend marks the beginning of the 103rd edition of Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place - the world's largest and longest running of it's kind. Please join me this Saturday from 2pm-6pm as I broadcast live from the show. http://www.chicagoautoshow.com/default.aspx

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: win tickets to see Bon Jovi each day at 5:05pm, as well as tickets to see Rod Stewart/Stevie Nicks daily as well.

(See Bon Jovi's video for "Livin' On A Prayer" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDK9QqIzhwk)

(See Rod Stewart's video for "Hot Legs" here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHcjjxYbgNM)

January is typically the coldest month of the year around these parts, but George Lynch of Dokken fame helped warm things up considerably this weekend with a searing set of fretboard pyrotechnics Saturday night. George's other band, Lynch Mob tore through a hit-laden set featuring both Lynch Mob and Dokken classics for the packed house.

(See Lynch Mob perform Dokken's "Into The Fire" live at Tailgaters here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tYz0RHDBx4)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: win tickets to see the return of Rush and their "Time Machine" tour each day!

(See Rush's video for "Tom Sawyer" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7DFsBcVMDA)

(See Rush's video for "Limelight" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKpn0esJ73w)

(See Rush's special gift to Loyal Loopers at their most recent Chicago show here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ho7--y441w)

A bonus round chance to win Rush tickets from the Loop every day this month here: http://www.wlup.com/checkitout/RushToFacebook.aspx

Tough one for the Chicago Bears and we Bears fans. On the bright side, the team advanced further than most would have predicted this year, giving creedence to the idea that this team is almost there. Much like the Blackhawks in 2009, don't bet against the Bears being back next year and taking it all.

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: The Loop's "World Tour" returns with a chance to win a trip for two to see Eric Clapton live in London, England daily at 5:05pm. http://www.wlup.com/contests/WorldTour_Clapton.aspx

Also this week, win tickets to see the return of UFO daily as well.

(See Eric Clapton perform "Layla" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Raw_y_GGptM)

(See UFO perform "Love To Love" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvddLotvgLA)

How 'bout dem Bears? For the first time since 1941, the Chicago Bears take on our arch rivals the Green Bay Packers in playoff action this Sunday at Soldier Field. The winner heads to the Superbowl. Could this be our year? GO BEARS!!!

*Make sure you listen to 97.9 The Loop all day this Thursday so you can win tickets to Sunday's game!

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: The Loop's "World Tour" returns with a chance to win a trip for two to see Eric Clapton live in London, England daily at 5:05pm. http://www.wlup.com/contests/WorldTour_Clapton.aspx

Also this week, win tickets to see Robin Trower each day.

(See Eric Clapton perform "Cocaine" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdDhV45lYHU&feature=related)

(See Robin Trower perform "Bridge Of Sighs" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tLsFsGxLmE)

Our fair Chicago is racking up some pretty impressive credits as a go-to co-star in the movie world these days. The latest flick to proudly display our great city to the world is the Ron Howard produced "The Dilemma", starring Chicagoan Vince Vaughn as well as Kevin James, Jennifer Connelly and Winona Ryder. "The Dilemma" contains scenes filmed at The Green Mill, a Blackhawks game and many more places you will instantly recognize. The big budget Hollywood film opens this coming weekend nationwide.

(See "The Dilemma" movie trailer here: http://thedilemmamovie.com/)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: Win tickets to see the re-formed super group Asia each day as well as a conversation with Blackhawks legend Bobby Hull this Wednesday at 3:30pm.

(See Asia's video for "Heat Of The Moment" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfFjb3B9RRw)

(See Bobby Hull live at the Loop here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IIIn-IK51Q)

GO BEARS!!!

He was sick as a dog, but Rob Halford and his band delivered a stunning show at the House Of Blues this past Thursday night. Mixing in some Judas Priest, and even some material from his holiday album into the set, it was a definitive statement more than worthy of his iconic "Metal God" status.

(See Halford perform "The Green Manalishi" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifxKLEgJ7EA)

(See part 1 of Halford on TV plugging his Loop show at the HOB here: http://www.wgntv.com/videobeta/edbe77cc-87e8-4530-b4ca-2b95368c7ead/News/Music-Lounge-Rob-Halford-Performs-Live)

(See part 2 of Halford on TV plugging his Loop show at the HOB here: http://www.wgntv.com/videobeta/b30c7554-a215-4553-895c-9d70ca1d1380/News/Music-Lounge-Rob-Halford-Performs-Live-Part-2-)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: Win U2 tickets each day at 5:05pm, tickets to a private REO Speedwagon show, and autographed guitars during the second (and final) week of the Loop's "Merry Axe-mas." A conversation with Joe Satriani on Friday at 6:30pm.

(See U2's video for "Pride (In The Name Of Love)" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHcP4MWABGY&feature=channel)

(See U2's video for "Desire" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8rQ575DWD8)

(See U2's video for "Sunday Bloody Sunday" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EM4vblG6BVQ&feature=channel)

(See REO Speedwagon perform "Roll With The Changes" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGgLPriZUSA)

(See the autographed guitars you can win this week with the Loop's "Merry Axe-mas" here: http://www.wlup.com/contests/MerryAxemas2010.aspx)

(See Joe Satriani's video for "Big Bad Moon" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VK-slJC_2TY)

"Rock me, roll me, Jackyl me off!" Jesse James DuPree and Jackyl did just that with two loud 'n proud shows in town over the weekend. Several bar stools have unfortunately been reported damaged... along with many eardrums!

(See Jackyl and DMC perform Aerosmith's "Walk This Way" live at Austin's here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3DmbIb0ldY)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: Win tickets to see Rush before you can even buy them each day at 5:05pm as well as Joe Satriani VIP prize packs which include tickets in the first 5 rows, meet 'n greet passes and much more. The Loop's "Merry Axe-mas" giveaways of autographed guitars continues all week too, and a conversation with Rob Halford of Judas Priest on Thursday at 5:30pm. Don't miss out!

(See Rush's video for "Tom Sawyer" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5i5-1tGHVo&playnext=1&list=PLD7DB988D3DE1108D&index=26)

(See an amazing fan made video for Rush's "YYZ" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjS5ckeoens&list=PLD7DB988D3DE1108D&index=28&playnext=2)

(See Joe Satriani's video for "Satch Boogie" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1MJAyRN3Lg)

(See the autographed guitars and learn how to win with The Loop's "Merry Axe-mas" here: http://www.wlup.com/contests/MerryAxemas2010.aspx)

(See Judas Priest's video for "Livin' After Midnight" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcAwJ8tq9p4&feature=related)

Happy Thanksgiving!

How do they keep doing it? It seems every year, Trans-Siberian Orchestra's annual holiday show keeps getting bigger, better and more bombastic... and this year was no exception!

(See a montage of Trans-Siberian Orchestra performing live at the Allstate Arena here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQAUFzXRnjk)

This week on my show from 3p-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide via www.wlup.com: win 4 packs of tickets to the movie premiere of "Tron-Legacy" in 3D each day at 5:05pm, as well as Kid Rock tickets and copies of the "Big 4 - Metallica/Megadeth/Slayer/Anthrax" DVD. Conversations with Blackhawks legend Eddie Olczyk on Tuesday at 6:30pm and Jackyl this Friday at 5:30pm.

(See the "Tron-Legacy" in 3D trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9szn1QQfas)

(See Kid Rock's video for "So Hott" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2x93iLj06iM)

(See Kid Rock's video for "All Summer Long" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nppJyBUtb5o&feature=channel)

(See the "Big 4" DVD trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BibR2SKY2AI)

(See Jackyl's video for "The Lumberjack" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A52p9jc-gOo)

Anything but yes men, Uriah Heep continued to do things their own unique way this past Saturday night at Durty Nellie's in Palatine, much to the delight of the gathered Loyal Loopers. Mixing robust new tracks in with their classics, they delivered another spectacular show in their very 'eavy but very 'umble way. Dickens would be proud.

(See Uriah Heep perform "Easy Livin'" live at Durty Nellie's here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEYGmSnKcR8)

Heads up! My 5th annual "Byrd For Birds" food drive will take place Tuesday November 23 in the main lobby of the Merchandise Mart starting at 8:00am. More details forthcoming.

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide on www.wlup.com: The Loop's "World Tour" returns with a chance to win a trip for two to see Roger Waters perform "The Wall" live in Barcelona, Spain each weekday at 5:05pm!http://www.wlup.com/contests/WorldTour_Waters.aspx

Also this week, win copies of the newly released "Crossroads 2010" DVD as well as tickets to see Rob Halford of Judas Priest at the House Of Blues, and a conversation with Great White on Friday at 3:30pm.

(See a"Crossroads 2010" DVD preview here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFTLTitCuNU&feature=related)

(See my conversation with Rob Halford of Judas Priest here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhXb2RYsp4s)

(See Great White perform "Once Bitten Twice Shy" live on my show here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLK4eJ-LCsM)

Never short on creativity or showmanship, Queensryche presented their new "Queensryche Cabaret" show at the House Of Blues this past Friday night. Just in time for Halloween, the show featured many a visual delight set to the music of Queensryche.

(See Queensryche perform "Empire" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvPfAntdsro)

(See Queensryche perform "Jet City Woman" live at the House Of Blues here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HsoY5xHC_Xg)

This past week also saw The Cult return to Chicago to rock the Vic Theatre.

(See The Cult perform "She Sells Sanctuary" live at the Vic Theatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_cTZaL9ei4)

(See The Cult perform "Love Removal Machine" live at the Vic Theatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYmdOqbsEvM)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and wordwide via www.wlup.com: The "Loop Workforce Payroll" is back with your chance to collect $100 per hour just for listening to the Loop! (http://www.wlup.com/contests/WorkforcePayroll.aspx) Tickets to see the Australian Pink Floyd Show and meet them after the show daily this week as well. Conversations with Dave Mustaine of Megadeth this Wednesday at 6:30pm and Bret Michaels of Poison on Thursday at 5:30pm.

(See the amazing Australian Pink Floyd Show in action here: http://www.aussiefloyd.com/Media.aspx)

(See Megadeth, Metallica, Slayer and Anthrax's "Big 4" DVD trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BibR2SKY2AI)

(See Poison's video for "Talk Dirty To Me" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rKHeN69r_M)

Hot weekend in Chicago, in more ways than one! With the temperatures and the proliferation of great concerts soaring, it was a opportune time to get out and catch some fantastic shows.

Iron Maiden has earned a reputation as being one of the greatest live acts you will ever get a chance to see. Many years ago at the beginning of their career, we all went out for a few tastey adult beverages and the thing that sticks in my mind was how excited the guys in the band were that they might be starting to break through in North America. This past weekend, some 25,000 Loyal Loopers (the largest crowd ever for Maiden in Chicago) packed the First Midwest Bank Amphitheater to catch them. It it a rare sight indeed to witness an opening act get a standing ovation, but Dream Theater did just that as they cultivated many new fans with a stunning performance. Little more than 30 minutes later, the mighty Iron Maiden took to the stage and delivered another spectacular show worthy of their hard-earned rep. Well done lads. Up The Irons!

(See Dream Theater perform "Pull Me Under" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheater here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bkEkdAyag4)

(See Iron Maiden perform "Number Of The Beast" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheater here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzmQAGzwEw4)

(See Iron Maiden perform their encore "Running Free" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheater here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRFmq-MDlb4)

Across town that same night, REO Speedwagon and Pat Benatar filled the Charter One Pavilion and rocked the house there.

(See REO Speedwagon perform "Ridin' The Storm Out" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S6otevh0jg)

(See Pat Benatar perform "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" live at Charter One Pavilion here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8tVa6SpBF8)

The previous night, Tom Petty played to a sold-out crowd at the United Center.

(See Tom Petty perform "Runnin' Down A Dream" live at the United Center here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff6NqGZfhE8)

Also on Saturday, Heart appeared at the first Lilith Fair in more than a decade at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre.

(See Heart perform "Crazy On You" live at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yd_Jfmea8IA)

This week on show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide at www.wlup.com: Win 4-packs of White Sox tickets, a commemorative Loop 33 1/3 t-shirt and a chance to win Crosley turntable and 15 classic Loop vinyl albums at 5:00pm daily during our month-long 33 1/3 birthday celebration as well as passes to the premiere of the Crossroads Guitar Fest 2010 theater screening each day. Conversations this week with Ted Nugent this Tuesday at 3:30pm and Jeff LaBar of Cinderella on Thursday at 4:30pm.

(See Ted Nugent perform "Stranglehold" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIKbjqq2tEU)

(See Ted Nugent perform "Cat Scratch Fever" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCJux_7W2i8&feature=related)

(See Cinderella's video for "Shake Me" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptPekKOigkQ)

In what has been rumored to be their last ever tour, the Eagles played Soldier Field this weekend. Hit after hit, spanning their entire career were delivered to the massive audience. Always spot-on live, this performance was no exception.

(See Eagles perform "Hotel California" live at Soldier Field here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znbRI9ZzSTs)

With Blackhawks delirium still gripping Chicagoland, now is a great time to preserve those memories with some of the coolest (and most affordable) Blackhawks 2010 Stanley Cup Champions memorabilia around. However, these items are almost sold out, so get 'em before it's too late!

(See/order the Chicago Blackhawks 2010 Stanley Cup Champions 2-puck commemorative set here: http://www.nikcosports.com/chicago-blackhawks-stanley-cup-appearance-two-puck-set-with-displays.aspx)

(See/order the Chicago Blackhawks 2010 Stanley Cup Champions commemorative photo mint here: http://sbflip.com/)

This Saturday marks the 3rd (2nd in Chicago) and final historic "Crossroads Guitar Festival." To be held at Toyota Park and hosted by Eric Clapton, it will be a collection of some of the finest blues/rock guitarists on the planet, all on one stage including ZZ Top, Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa, BB King and many more. Selling out in a mere 20 minutes, this is by far the hottest ticket in town this summer. If you weren't lucky enough to get tickets, the Loop will be giving them away all week long! I will be doing my show live from Toyota Park 2pm-6pm Saturday with lots of prizes and special guests. Don't miss it!

(See Eric Clapton perform "Cocaine" live at the 2004 Crossroads Guitar Festival in Dallas here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fG_P5TMt87k)

(See ZZ Top perform "La Grange" live at the 2004 Crossroads Guitar Festival in Dallas here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFqFtBSXM_k)

(See Buddy Guy and friends perform "Sweet Home Chicago" live at the 2007 Crossroads Guitar Festival in Chicago here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VD8Fv2PRRis)

(See Eric Clapton and Joe Bonamassa perform a spectacular rendition of "Further On Up The Road" together live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEEfDdJyxPY)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop in Chicago and worldwide at www.wlup.com: win Crossroads Guitar Festival tickets at 5:05pm daily, Alice Cooper tickets with a chance to win the grand prize of front row and backstage passes and Steel Panther tickets as well. Conversations with Duncan Keith of the Chicago Blackhawks this Tuesday at 5:30pm and Joe Bonamassa on Saturday at 3:30pm.

(See Duncan Keith of the Chicago Blackhawks speech at the 2 million strong Chicago victory parade here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=894&id=72375)

(See a Duncan Keith highlight reel here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=1012&id=48069)

(See Duncan Keith just after losing 7 teeth here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=36&id=71110)

Beware: Adult (but hilarious!) Content:

(See Steel Panther's video for "Death To All But Metal" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfB7vF7nCdA)

Blackhawks fever has attained a whole new level of frenzy this week as the team doggedly pursues Chicago's first Stanley Cup title in 49 years versus the pesky, never-say-die Philadelphia Flyers. GO HAWKS!!!

(See a photo collage of myself with various Chicago Blackhawks greats past and present here: http://www.wlup.com/Pics/Airstaff/Byrd/goHawks/goHawks_1000w_02.jpg)

The guys in Airbourne popped by my show last Saturday afternoon before their set at the Riviera to say hello and share a few laughs. After spending nearly 3 months living in Chicago recording their new CD "No Guts, No Glory", the band became big fans of my show and the Loop and were beyond thrilled by the experience. For those that missed the concert, you will get another chance to catch Australia's hottest new young band at the "Uproar Fest" August 21st at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre.

(See Airbourne's visit to the Loop here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjQ1Cc8Ttic)

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 the Loop in Chicago and worldwide at www.wlup.com: win KISS tickets at 5:05pm daily, Rush tickets as well as 4-packs of passes to the award winning Rush documentary "Beyond The Lighted Stage", commemorative Chicago Blackhawks puck sets and a conversation with Blackhawks legend Denis Savard this Wednesday at 5:30pm. Don't miss out!

(See the video for KISS - "Modern Day Delilah" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTSYBuzmmD0&feature=fvst)

(See the trailer for the Rush documentary "Beyond The Lighted Stage" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gz48xbcw7rw)

(See the commemorative Chicago Blackhawks puck set here: http://www.nikcosports.com/chicago-blackhawks-stanley-cup-appearance-two-puck-set-with-displays.aspx)

(See a highlight reel of Blackhawks Hall Of Famer Denis Savard here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=816&id=3472

This week on my show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 the Loop and worldwide at www.wlup.com: win tickets to 3 great upcoming shows at Charter One Pavilion featuring Styx, REO Speedwagon and Shinedown at 5:05pm daily, tickets to Cinderella in the first 5 rows each day, chances to win Rush tickets as well as 4-packs of passes to the award winning Rush documentary "Beyond The Lighted Stage" and conversations with Chicago Blackhawks legends Stan Mikita this Tuesday at 6:30pm and Bobby Hull on Thursday at 5:30pm. Don't miss out!

(See Cinderella's video for "Gypsy Road" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6j7E7pvLxmI)

(See the trailer for the Rush documentary "Beyond The Lighted Stage" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gz48xbcw7rw)

(See the "History Will Be Made" NHL promo featuring Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=816&id=71119)

(See footage of the Blackhawks 1961 Stanley Cup victory featuring Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=816&id=12549)

(See a highlight reel of Blackhawks Hall Of Famer Bobby Hull here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=816&id=3523)

(See a highlight reel of Blackhawks Hall Of Famer Stan Mikita here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=816&id=3548)

Stanley Cup fever has officially gripped Chicago! This is how the West was won. It took only 4 games (and cost Hawks defenseman Duncan Keith 7 teeth), but our Blackhawks jumped the Sharks to win the Western Conference Finals and earn their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 18 years and a chance at their first Stanley Cup win since 1961. Unfortunately it doesn't appear like we'll get that Original 6 match up of the Chicago Blackhawks vs. Montreal Canadiens we were hoping for. Long-time Hawks fans were relishing the chance to wipe out the bad voodoo from heartbreaking losses to the Canadiens in the 1965 and 1971 finals with a victory this year. Nevertheless, GO HAWKS!!!

(See the Chicago Blackhawks clinch a 2010 Stanley Cup Finals playoff berth here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?hlg=20092010,3,324)

(See Duncan Keith of the Chicago Blackhawks interviewed after the game here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=690&id=70464)

The guys in Airbourne popped by my show Saturday afternoon before their set at the Riviera to say hello and share a few laughs. After spending nearly 3 months living in Chicago recording their new CD "No Guts, No Glory", the band became big fans of my show and the Loop and were beyond thrilled by the experience. Video of their visit will be posted on www.wlup.com soon. For those that missed the concert, you will get another chance to catch Australia's hottest new young band at the "Uproar Fest" August 21st at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre.

(See Airbourne perform "Runnin' Wild" live at the Riviera Theatre here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SoUojTNz70E)

(See Airbourne's video for "Too Much, Too Young, Too Fast" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AkMZ6fV3T_0&feature=channel)

Earlier in the week on my show, I played a snippet of some new music Ronnie James Dio was working on before his untimely passing a week ago. With any luck, that material will see the light of day as an official release soon.

(See Ronnie James Dio's last interview here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXTL6EqHqkc&feature=related)

This week on show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop and worldwide at www.wlup.com: Win 4-packs of Chicago White Sox tickets daily at 5:05pm and chances to win 4-packs of passes to Arlington Park, a VIP parking pass and 2 spots in my Baggo contest where you could win $500 as well! Conversations with Michael Anthony of Chickenfoot this Tuesday at 3:30pm and Blackhawks legend Tony Esposito this Thursday at 5:30pm. Don't miss out!

(See Chickenfoot's video for "Sexy Little Thing" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeqpRvFaCtI)

(See Chickenfoot's video for "Soap On A Rope" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7OqQPFfOfA&feature=channel)

(See Chickenfoot's video for "My Kinda Girl" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-cZcYwnEXw&feature=channel)

(See a highlight reel of Chicago Blackhawks legend Tony Esposito here: http://blackhawks.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=816&id=3527)

One of rock's greatest and yet somehow tragically underrated front men Ronnie James Dio lost his battle with cancer early Sunday morning ending a brilliant and varied career that spanned an incredible 6 decades. Ronnie logged time in huge outfits like Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, and had a prolific solo run as well as helping to popularize the now ubiquitous "metal horns" hand gesture. He was 67.

Truly one of rock's "good guys", Ronnie and I shared many laughs over the years. My experience was by no means exclusive, however. Ronnie was hands down one of the kindest and most generous people I have ever met, especially with his many fans. I feel very fortunate to have known him. Thanks for all the great music Ronnie. You will truly be missed, but never forgotten.

This Monday from 3pm-7pm on my show, tune in for a special tribute to Ronnie James Dio featuring music from his storied career, as well as never before heard interview segments from my personal archives.

(See Ronnie James Dio perform "Rainbow In The Dark" live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUXSTY9AW-s)

(See Ronnie James Dio's video for "The Last In Line" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEV4Tov1GBM&feature=related)

(See Ronnie James Dio perform "Man On The Silver Mountain" live with Rainbow here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFH36je9Hro)

(See Ronnie James Dio in Black Sabbath's video for "Neon Knights" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhe1SuBGkiA)

(See Ronnie James Dio's last performance in Chicago August 19, 2009 at Charter One Pavilion performing "The Mob Rules" with Heaven & Hell here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KZd3HwB8Xk)

(See photographs of Ronnie James Dio during his final trip to Chicago here: http://www.wlup.com/airstaff/byrd/ronnioJamesDio.aspx)

This past Thursday night, Ratt and the Loop packed the Cubby Bear in Wrigleyville to celebrate the release of Ratt's new CD "Infestation." Looking and sounding remarkably refreshed, Ratt proceeded to lay waste to the capacity crowd of Loyal Loopers with a heady mixture of their classics as well as selections from their return-to-form latest.

(See Ratt perform "Round And Round" live at the Cubby Bear here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_dvVFyZOSE)

This Tuesday from 3pm-7pm, join me as I broadcast my show live from the Nickelback/Shinedown/Breaking Benjamin show at the Allstate Arena. In addition, the members of Shinedown will be joining me on the air at 5:30pm. See you there!

(See Nickelback's video for "Burn It To The Ground" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxgeSv88c2w&feature=related)

(See Nickelback's video for "Too Bad" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3E7_8FWqY9o)

(See Nickelback's video for "Rock Star" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1hgVcNzvzY&feature=related)

(See Shinedown's video for "Devour" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QXNtLaOnSE)

Also this week on show from 3pm-7pm on 97.9 The Loop and worldwide at www.wlup.com: Win tickets to Ozzfest 2010 featuring Ozzy Osbourne, Motley Crue, Rob Halford, Black Label Society, and many more each day at 5:05pm, tickets to Alice In Chains each day as well as conversations with Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon this Friday at 6:30pm and Airbourne this Saturday at 4:30pm.

(See Airbourne's video for "No Way But The Hard Way" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DHHv5OuEzY)

(See Airbourne's video for "Runnin' Wild" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2IyX5LXGyg)