Jimi Hendrix did a home porn tape? You be the judge (WARNING: contains ADULT content)...

http://vc1.hendrixsextape.com/?x=8db4ee25ae82a406e4bf9ebd624cf7ae

The Loop Rock Girl 2008 grand finale is this coming Saturday at Austin's Saloon in Libertyville beginning with a live broadcast with me starting at 3pm and culminating with the crowning of the new 2008 Loop Rock Girl. Vince Neil of Motley Crue will serve as one of our guest judges, and if you join me during my broadcast, you'll have a chance to win an autographed guitar signed by Vince, tickets to see Motley Crue this summer at Cruefest, Cubs/Cards tickets and plenty of food and drink specials as well. Come join me and cheer on your favorite girl. It promises to be a blast! All the details here: www.wlup.com/rockgirlshowcase2008/browse.aspx.

(See Motley Crue's video for "Girls, Girls, Girls" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=OJrSyFpK3iQ)

All day this coming Tuesday, 97.9 The Loop will be spinning tracks from the new, yet to be released CD from Def Leppard entitled "Songs From The Sparkle Lounge" and giving you a chance to win a copy each time we play a new track. Having had a chance to preview the disc, I can tell you it's terrific!

(See Def Leppard's video for their new song "Nine Lives" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Op_8ek4OAZY)

If you're a regular listener to my show and reader of this blog, you knew Judas Priest were about to announce a summer concert date here in Chicagoland, and that they were working on their (first ever) concept album about Nostradamus. Tuesday night, I played the new Priest song "Nostradamus" during the 10 O'Clock News and it was every bit as good as Rob Halford had promised it would be a few months ago when he called me on my show to inform me about the progress of the new CD. All this week between 7pm - 12midnight, your chance to grab a pair of tickets to the Judas Priest, Heaven & Hell, Motorhead and Testament show August 19th at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre and the Kid Rock concert May 23rd at the Sears Centre from me. Don't miss out!

(See Judas Priest's video for "Breaking The Law" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=OYn5hxeFt10&feature=related)

(See Judas Priest's video for "You've Got Another Thing Coming" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=sr-rBAAfjjo&feature=related)

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

(See Kid Rock's video for "So Hott" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=fLfwdl7rWTU)

(See Kid Rock's video for "Amen" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=HMMLqmLaBNY&feature=user)

Busy week on the show! Alex Lifeson of Rush, Rickey Medlocke of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Vinnie Moore of UFO, and Carl Palmer of Asia all checked in with me to say hello, have a few laughs and chat about their latest doings. Alex Lifeson told me about his modest hopes for Rush in the early days (he hoped they would last 5 years) and about the new Rush concert CD "Snakes & Arrows - Live." Rikey Medlocke informed me that Lynyrd Skynyrd plan on recording a new album soon, and how much they were looking forward to Friday's show in Chicagoland. Vinnie Moore talked about the return of original UFO drummer Andy Parker to the band and how pumped they were as well to be returning to Chicago to play. Carl Palmer discussed the reunion of Asia after 25 years and their set list for Sunday which would also include songs from each member's illustrious past, such as E.L.P., Uriah Heep, King Crimson and Yes.

In addition to the above, I did my show live from the Sears Center Friday night for the Lynyrd Skynyrd concert, took in/MC'ed both UFO and Asia at the House Of Blues over the weekend, hung out with the guys, and got a chance to meet some more great Loyal Loopers, to boot! Phew. I think I need a nap! All three shows were tremendous.

(See UFO's video for "Only You Can Rock Me" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=HZzZUyD00Fg)

(See UFO perform "Love To Love" with Vinnie Moore and Jason Bonham live in the studio here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=VNM9YHoG1YU)

(See Asia's video for "Heat Of The Moment" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Yk5tOion6F8)

As I indicated on an earlier blog, Motley Crue indeed announced their summer tour this week, which the Loop will bring to Chicagoland July 16th at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre. Special guests include Buckcherry and Sixx A.M., among others.

(See Motley Crue's video for their new song "Saints Of Los Angeles" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=4sWpS8iSDIY)

Also announced this week, the Loop presents Poison/Dokken/Sebastian Bach August 3rd at the FMBA.

(See Poison recording "We're An American Band" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=X0bLKR5-G1g)

(See Dokken's video for "It's Not Love" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=R5bweZNXvzY)

(See Sebastian Bach's video for his new song "(Love Is) A Bitchslap" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpUTwDP42Oo)

My buddy Dean DeLeo, guitarist and founding member of Stone Temple Pilots called me during my show this past week to update me about their reunion tour (their first tour in 7 years) with Scott Weiland back in the fold and to share a few laughs and stories. Dean and I talked about what lead to the reconciliation with Weiland, the current feeling amongst the members and what lies ahead for STP in the near and distant future. The Loop will be bringing them to the Charter One Pavilion May 22nd, tickets are on sale now and going fast through www.wlup.com.

(See highlights of the Stone Temple Pilots press conference announcing the tour here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_0f_SDltiVo)

JY of Styx also checked in with me to chat about the Chicago blues benefit show they will be a part of tomorrow (Monday) night at the Vic Theatre. In a reversal of the "pay it forward" sentiment, JY and Styx, along with Koko Taylor and others will "pay it backward", raising money for the now aging bluesmen who laid the foundation for the rock movement, many of whom are now sadly destitute. A few tickets remain through www.wlup.com.

Alex Lifeson of Rush will be joining me this coming Tuesday night on the show at 9:30pm to talk about their new live CD and their upcoming concert at the United Center June 9th. Right afterwards I will play some of the yet to be released "Snakes & Arrows Live" disc. Also, this Friday night, I will be doing my show live (7pm-12midnight) from the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates for the Lynyrd Skynyrd show there. Come by and say hello! After the show, you will be able to upload your pictures and reviews of the show at www.wlup.com for the whole world to see.

(See Rush perform "In The Mood" live in 1976 here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Geus8-rbjr8)

(See Lynyrd Skynyrd perform "Simple Man" live here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=sHQ_aTjXObs)

Ever wonder what it's like behind the scenes at the Loop? We all had a little fun this week putting together a "sneak peek" for you.

(See the "Behind The Scenes At The Loop" video here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Lnrq6XylgDs)

The search for the Loop Rock Girl 2008 is in full swing. Narrowed down to the final 64 ladies, voting is currently underway. Vote for your favorite and come join us at the crowning party! All the details at www.wlup.com.

Many new Chicagoland concerts are being unveiled almost every day on the Loop. Recent announcements have included the re-united Stone Temple Pilots, Lollapalooza, Alterbridge and many more. Upcoming information on shows from Motley Crue, Triumph and a Poison/Dokken/Sebastian Bach triple bill are forthcoming. Keep it locked on the Loop for the breaking news and buy tickets via www.wlup.com.

Make sure you also dial in to my show from 7pm - 12midnight in the coming weeks to hear conversations with Alex Lifeson of Rush, JY of Styx, Dean DeLeo of Stone Temple Pilots, and David Coverdale of Whitesnake to name just a few.

Sad news in the Led Zeppelin family recently. The vocalist for Jason Bonham's one time band Bonham, Daniel McMaster suddenly passed away from a blood infection at the tender age of 39.

(See Bonham's video for "Wait For You" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=74KheeagcLM)

Dave Foley of "News Radio" and founding member of the brilliantly funny sketch comedy troupe Kids In The Hall checked in with me on the show the other night to chat about their reunion tour that will see them make stops at the Star Plaza Theatre April 4th, and at the Chicago Theatre May 29th. Dave's dry, twisted sense of humor was in full evidence during the laugh-filled conversation.

(See a clip from the Kids In The Hall TV show here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=toFwUGusdK0&feature=related)

Anyone who says "they just don't make good music anymore" hasn't been paying attention, nor listening to the Loop. Here are four new "baby bands" who are betraying that sentiment.

(See the band The Answer here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=JL3gIO624X8)

(See the band Airbourne here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=CgAgG68TRKE&feature=related)

(See the band Black Tide here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=M0E6nsE6_e4)

(See the band Dragonforce here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=0jgrCKhxE1s)

It's official... "Guitar Hero" has become a full-fledged, bonafide cultural phenomenon! Topping 15 million units sold, the video game has generated some $1 billion in sales, and shows no signs of slowing. Competitions at bars have become widespread, and new versions featuring the music of Aerosmith and perhaps even Rush are on the way. For more info www.guitarhero.com.

New on the scene is the even more amazing "Rock Band" video game. Played with not just a single guitar-shaped controller but with guitar, bass, drums and vocals, this game is a cross between Guitar Hero and karaoke. In essence, you and your friends can all jam together! The company recently brought a demo version to one of my "Friday Night Live" broadcasts. To say it was a huge hit was an understatement. Check it out www.rockband.com.

Here comes summer! How can you tell? The concert calendar is starting to fill up! Upcoming announcements will include shows from Journey/Heart/Cheap Trick, ZZ Top, Kid Rock, King Crimson, R.E.M., George Thorogood, Boston, The Black Crowes, Peter Frampton, Seether, Pat Benatar, Lollapalooza, Yes, with many more to come! Keep it locked on the Loop for all the breaking concert news, and don't forget you can grab tickets through www.wlup.com.

Local playwright/director/thespian (and fan of my show as it turns out) Tony Fiorentino recently invited me down to see his latest theatre production "My Dinner With Amy." Sharp, funny and very entertaining, I enjoyed it a great deal. Tony has been on a roll lately, with an Off-Broadway opening in New York and rave reviews of his works. Congratulations, Tony!

After 30 odd years of estrangement and a type of "cold war", legendary Blackhawk players Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita were fianlly welcomed back as the heroes they are at Friday night's sold-out Hawks game against San Jose at the United Center. Chatting with the guys before the ceremony, they could not have been happier. Like the two kids they were when they first came to town to play for the Hawks, much giggling and ribbing of each other ensued. Both Hawks new owner Rocky Wirtz and new president John McDonough have made swift work of mending fences with Chicago fans and past players alike. Bravo!

(See the tribute video shown that night here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=AgI7lZc7rUE)

(See Bobby Hull's speech here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=NGkjKPnpqU0)

We lost a very gifted musician and kind man this past week. Jeff Healey finally succumbed to the cancer that took his eye sight at the age of 1. He was only 42 years old. During his all-too-short life, Jeff touched everyone he came in contact with with his razor sharp wit and his extraordinary musical talents. I count myself one of lucky ones that got to know Jeff over his brief life. As it turns out, Jeff was a regular listener to my show and a fan. I in turn, became of fan of his. Fortunately for us, Jeff had successfully completed recording his first rock record in nearly eight years "Mess Of Blues" which will be released in the next month or so. Rest in peace my friend. Thanks for the laughs and your great music. It was truly a pleasure to know you.

(See Jeff Healey perform live with the late Stevie Ray Vaughn here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=XqU9RZqvFKY)

(See Jeff Healey's video for "Angel Eyes" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=QYz_LHKrgDY)

(See Jeff Healey's video for "Confidence Man" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=6MevNeiO4Zk)

Speaking of great guitarists with a knack for catchy tunes, Steve Miller is set to play the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre July 5th.

Scott Weiland and Velvet Revolver just passed through town for another great Loop show, amid talk that the original lineup of Stone Temple Pilots will be reuniting for a show later this summer. Will STP do a full-fledged tour that might see them appear here in Chicago as well? What then will be the fate of Velvet Revolver? Could this set the stage for a Guns n' Roses reunion? In the next two weeks, STP lead guitarist and founding member Dean DeLeo will be joining me on my show to address these questions and more. Don't miss it!

(See Velvet Revolver's Video for "The Last Fight" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=JvFnBdNhQ1E)

(See Stone Temple Pilots' video for "Interstate Love Song" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=8BDQ6mQzOKQ&feature=related)

This summer, the Blackhawks will hold their inaugural "Blackhawks Convention" July 18th -20th at the Hilton Chicago. This will be a first for the Hawks and for any team in the NHL. Legendary players like Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita and Tony Esposito will be appearing as well as current stars Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Duncan Keith and Patrick Sharp, among others.

(See a Bobby Hull highlight montage here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=uoCONk_jKl4, and another here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=loa3wsY_wdc&feature=related)

(See a Stan Mikita highlight montage here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_USp_Bv8Ho8)

(See a Tony Esposito highlight montage here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=WZ7qqs5mYQs)

Keep up with all things hockey via my podcast "Byrd's Puck Podcast" available through my page at www.wlup.com.

The 100th annual Chicago Auto Show just wrapped up at McCormick Place this weekend. Far and away the biggest hit this year was Dodge's re-introduction of the famed "Challenger." What a car!

(See and read more about the 2008 Dodge "Challenger" here: http://www.chicagoautoshow.com/vehicles/detail.asp?type_id=2&make_id=9&vehicle_id=600)

Also garnering many ooh's and aah's were Chevrolet's Camaro "BumbleBee" concept car, and the 2009 Corvette ZR1.

(See and read more about the Camaro "BumbleBee" concept car here: http://www.chicagoautoshow.com/vehicles/detail.asp?type_id=1&make_id=20&vehicle_id=45)

(See and read more about the Corvette "ZR1" here: http://www.chicagoautoshow.com/vehicles/detail.asp?make_id=20)

A ton of new Loop concerts have recently been announced such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Police, R.E.M., Megadeth, Styx, Tom Petty, Van Halen, Dream Theatre, U.F.O, Rush, etc. with more being added every week. Keep it locked on the Loop for the latest. In upcoming weeks, look for Robert Plant, The Eagles, Triumph, Iron Maiden and more to potentially announce Chicago dates. Tickets and the most up-to-date list can be had on the "Concert Calender" page at www.wlup.com.

And last but not least... the 2008 Loop Rock Girl search is coming... details very soon on 97.9 The Loop!

Rik Emmett of Triumph fame checked in with me this week on my show to give me the scoop on the reunion of Triumph after 22 years apart. A number of factors have warmed relations between Rick, Mike Levine and Gil Moore over the last few years. Induction into the Canadian Music Hall Of Fame, the untimely death of Rick's younger brother (and subsequent emotional support from his former band mates), and a growing realization of their enduring popularity all contributed to a re-examination of the current status of the band. Triumph will play their first gig together this summer at a rock music festival in Sweden with scattered shows planned Stateside as well. Don't be surprised if Chicago is one of those stops. Rick said a full scale, worldwide tour is planned for the summer of 2009.

The Loop and the House Of Blues brought the 20th anniversary edition of the Laser Floyd show back to town yesterday. Both shows were packed to the brim with Loyal Loopers. After a quick hello and introduction from me, we all settled in for yet another amazing production. The show is different and dare I say it, better than previous years. If you haven't taken in the show, or haven't attended in a few years, you owe it to yourself to do so the next time it's in town. The show really does live up to its billing as the Laser Floyd "Spectacular." In the meantime, get your weekly Floyd fix on my show during "Thinks Pink" every Monday night at 10pm, exclusively on the Loop.

Queensryche once again descended on Chicago for two sold-out shows at the House Of Blues this past weekend. A mix of time-tested favorites, as well as their impressive version of Pink Floyd's classic "Welcome To The Machine" from their latest CD "Take Cover" were dished out for the rabid crowd. On Saturday night, the three finalists from the Loop's "Sing With Queensryche" contest joined me on stage to belt out their best. The winner (determined by audience response) got to sing lead vocals with Queensryche during the first encore. What a thrill for the young lady who won, and an impressive performance to boot! When Queensryche singer Geoff Tate checked in with me earlier this week, he was amped up to be playing Chicago again and looking forward to the contest. Unfortunately for Geoff, he became very ill Saturday night and was not able to manage their usual second encore. All in all though, another stellar swing through town for the band, and one thrilled Loyal Looper!

(See Queensryche perform "Welcome To The Machine" live here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=NYwBtIimi5E)

And what about the Superbowl? What a spectacular finish! Whichever team you were rooting for, the final few minutes were riveting to watch.

(See the GoDaddy.com ad with Danica Patrick that didn't make the censors cut here: http://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/media/play.asp?mediaID=exposure&ci=11526&tab=sb)

Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers may well have pulled off the best half-time performance in the post nipple-gate paranoia era. Nicely done. By the way, The Loop is bringing Tom Petty and the band back to Chicagoland for a show July 2nd at the United Center. If you didn't win tickets to the show this past weekend from us, tickets are going fast at www.wlup.com. Don't wait!

Now that the holiday season has passed and your finances are finally starting to show some signs of life, here are some items I recommend you treat yourself to... in the event that Santa forgot to leave them for you.

Led Zeppelin's re-release of "The Song Remains The Same" on DVD. The sound and picture quality have been vastly improved, with previously unreleased material included for the first time. There are numerous versions available. A special 2-disc version, a collector's edition as well as HD-DVD and Blu-Ray editions.

AC/DC's "Plug Me In" DVD. A terrific collection of live concert footage that is quite extensive and excellent in its scope. I recommend the 3-disc limited edition.

Pink Floyd's "Oh, By The Way" CD boxset. All of their 16 studio albums re-mastered with faithful reproductions of the original artwork and dust-sleeves of the vinyl releases, all housed in an eye-catching box.

And finally... Nokia's line of cell phones with FM receivers in them. Some 20+ models to choose from, many with MP3 players and camera/video as well. Quite the devices!

After over 20 years apart, the original members of Triumph (Rik Emmett, Mike Levine and Gil Moore) have announced they will be re-uniting to play a Swedish Rock Festival this summer. Also possible is an appearance at the second annual "Rocklahoma" fest, with a full-scale tour in 2009 being discussed. My long-time friend Rik Emmett will be checking in with me on my show on Thursday, February 7th at 9:30pm to give me the exclusive on the latest developments, including his upcoming solo charity show in Crystal Lake next month. Don't miss it!

(See Triumph's video for "Lay It On The Line" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=oJi0liWsst4&feature=related)

(See Triumph perform "Magic Power" live at the US Festival here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=rRDS9AwDF6g)

(See Triumph perform "Never Surrender" live at the US festival here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=bYde7a8V2-8&feature=related)

The tally for the second annual "Byrd For Birds" food drive to aid the Greater Chicago Food Depository has just come in... this year over 80,000 lbs. (over 40 tons) of food was donated during the drive! Wow! Many thanks again to all the Loyal Loopers who contributed. Needless to say, a great many less-fortunate families were able to enjoy a holiday meal, that otherwise would not.

With the start of a new year, numerous great Loop concert announcements have been made, including upcoming shows from Queensryche, Bon Jovi, Foo Fighters, UFO, and return visits by Rush and Van Halen, among others. For the complete list and info, visit the Loop's Concert Calender at wlup.com/Concerts/Listings.aspx.

Welcome to 2008!

The Loop's New Years Eve Rock 'n' Roll Ball at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare to usher out 2007 was even bigger than last year and a smash hit. This time, we took over a whole hotel with entertainment in every corner and on every level. The hotel sold out of rooms, and the complex was packed with some 5,000 + Loop revelers having the time of their lives. For those who didn't get a chance to partake in the party first hand, ABC-7 TV covered the event, including my countdown to midnight from the ballroom stage. If you didn't go this year, make sure you go next year. It was one hell of a party!

Last week, I was interviewed and my show featured by the fine folks at "Chicago Radio Spotlight." You can check it out here: http://chicagoradiospotlight.blogspot.com/2007/12/byrd.html

And finally this bit of information to look forward to in 2008... Led Zeppelin are indeed considering a full-scale reunion tour! Their show at the O2 arena in London was phenomenal. The audience was delirious, and the band was very pleased and encouraged by the response and their personal performance. Needless to say... the Loop is the place to be as this story unfolds, as tickets will be gone in a flash!

(See Led Zeppelin perform "Kashmir" live at the O2 Arena in London here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=QZxukPZ0pjA&feature=related)

Happy Holidays to you and all your loved ones. I hope Santa is good to you (even if you haven't been)!

Ozzy Osbourne rocked the Allstate Arena last weekend in his first arena tour in more than six years in support of his latest CD "Black Rain." I broadcast my show live from the venue and the roar I got when I stepped on-stage instantly told me how pumped up Loyal Loopers were to be at the concert. Ozzy was in excellent form, dishing out all his classics as well as several songs from the new album. Ozzy's band was tight and the opening act, Rob Zombie won over many new fans as well.

(See Ozzy Osbourne perform "Crazy Train" live at the Allstate Arena here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=qrTMWODeD_Q)