Four Winds Casinos | New Buffalo Hotel | Michigan Casinos
Adding smooth jazz vocal stylings to a variety of genres, Chad Thompson enjoys an interactive crowd which often finds itself singing along to covers of Garth Brooks, Zac Brown Band, Neil Diamond & Billy Joel. Previously leading up the original country music bands The Road Home and Local Motive, he shared the stage with bands Exile, Highway 101, Ronnie McDowell & The Eli Young Band. Now playing solo acoustic venues, Chad enjoys free-forming on keyboard and guitar, and most of all, bringing people together.
Rising from New York City’s legendary music scene, Willie Lock is quickly carving out his place in the world of country rock with his captivating sound and undeniable talent. Armed with a distinct style that pays homage to his roots in Maryland, Indiana, and West Virginia, Willie speaks from the heart with songs and stories that are impossible to ignore. His debut album, West Side Stories, was released at the end of 2023 and has already made waves, reaching half a million streams on Spotify and an impressive #5 on the iTunes Top Country Albums Chart. After studying vocal performance at Indiana University, Willie began writing his own songs as a release from the daily stress of conservatory life. It was a habit that became an obsession, and post-college, he went on to co-found the internationally acclaimed a cappella group Gentleman’s Rule, creating and producing viral videos and studio albums, as well as starring in a nationally televised concert special on PBS. With a successful and international five-year-run with Gentleman’s Rule in the books, Willie began writing the songs that would eventually become his debut album as a solo artist, pushing his talents and creativity in new directions to create an album that was true to his roots and own timeless style. West Side Stories is a testament to Willie’s unique blend of gritty New York character and classic country sensibilities. With a voice that echoes both raw authenticity and smooth charm, he paints vivid narratives of nostalgia, life, love, and the pursuit of dreams against the backdrop of energetic guitars and driving rhythms. To date, Willie’s work has been featured by MTV, Billboard, On Air With Ryan Seacrest, Country Central, and Country Swag. In addition to sharing the stage with artists such as Lainey Wilson, Kid Rock, Parker McCollum, Jake Owen, Pete Davidson, and Cuba Gooding Jr, Willie’s multifaceted career has lead to him acting roles in series such as HBO’s ‘And Just Like That’, Showtime’s ‘Billions’ and Amazon’s ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’.
Tim was born and raised in SW Michigan. As a young boy he was greatly influenced by two of his uncles who played flamenco guitar. He would listen for hours as they played the old Spanish ballads from Puerto Rico. His uncle gave him a guitar at 13 years old and Tim was hooked.
From age 15 on, Tim played solo and with various rock bands. He has attended the Front Porch Music school in Valparaiso, Indiana as well as a number of classes ranging from piano and theory to vocal studies and master guitar.
Tim plays different shows from festivals, concerts, supper clubs, pubs and cafes. He is known for his 70’s & 80’s style and features the music of various artists, like: Dan Fogelberg, James Taylor, America, Poco, Eagles, Jimmy Buffet, Cat Stevens, CSNY, Van Morrison, Jim Croce, John Denver, Paul Simon, John Fogerty, etc.
Poison’d Crue is made up of 4 Pro Musicians who don’t just play the music, they Live the Music.
They are all about giving you “Nothing but a Good Time” at the show. Taking you back to that decade of 80’s Glam Rock ! So come and catch a show so you can take a Ride on the “Wild Side” with us. These guys look forward to meeting you at the show!
Tracy Boucher from Logansport IN and
Angell Morgan from Carmel IN
Play a variety of music, spanning decades. Music from the 90s through modern rock and pop country of today. Inspired by bands. Such as Matchbox 20, Oasis, The Cranberries, Luke Bryan, Cole Swindell, Luke Combs, Britney Spears. And many more
Each Monday will feature Live Trivia night at Kankakee Grille New Buffalo, where guests have a chance to win gift cards ranging from $20-$50 in Four Winds Gift cards. Free admission to all guests. Cheating is prohibited. This includes utilizing cell phones or smart phones to come up with team answers. If a phone call or a text must be made, please respect the game and wait until all answers have been submitted. Teams will be disqualified if caught cheating.
1st Place – $50 Four Winds Gift Card
2nd Place – $30 Four Winds Gift Card
3rd Place – $20 Four Winds Gift Card
Martini: A sensational duo comprised of Sallie Pierpont and TJ Martin who have embarked on a musical journey like no other. Martini has become synonymous with delivering unforgettable performances that blend the best of classic rock, modern pop, and alternative anthems.
TJ and Sallie’s shared love for iconic bands such as Fleetwood Mac, John Mayer, to the Goo Goo Dolls and other classic rock anthems is the cornerstone of Martini’s musical selection. The duo’s eclectic repertoire features a medley of chart-topping hits from the 70’s to current hits!
Both TJ and Sallie possess remarkable vocal abilities, seamlessly transitioning between lead vocals, harmonies, and enchanting duets. Their voices blend harmoniously, creating a dynamic and versatile sound that resonates with listeners of all ages. Whether they’re belting out powerful rock ballads or delicately weaving melodies together, Martini’s vocal prowess leaves an indelible impression.
Not only does Martini captivate audiences with their musical prowess, but they also possess a visually captivating aesthetic. So raise a glass to Martini and immerse yourself in a sonic journey that transcends time, genre, and expectations.
Jessi & The Fizz is a premier NWI/Chicagoland party band who knows how to have fun and entertain the crowd with quality music and their “bubbly” personalities! Jessi & The Fizz plays covers of the hits from the 80’s 90’s and 2000’s but Jessi especially loves to sing Pop and Modern Classics from artists such as Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, Lizzo and more. “Our favorite music is whatever gets people dancing and singing along!” Jessi commands the stage with her contagious energy, upbeat persona and powerhouse vocals.
If ever the term “music business royalty” applies, it is custom made for Wilson Phillips. Literally born into the music business, Carnie Wilson, Wendy Wilson, and Chynna Phillips were born with vocal harmonies in their DNA. Carnie and Wendy are the daughters of Beach Boy legend Brian Wilson, and Chynna is the daughter of the equally notorious Michelle and John Phillips of the famed Mamas and Papas.
Friends since birth, Carnie and Chynna knew each other even before Wendy was born. Best friends growing up, the three of them would often share their love for music and specifically for vocal harmonies. In 1989 they were signed to SBK Records, and their debut album was released in 1990.
Their debut album had three number one singles including HOLD ON, RELEASE ME, and IMPULSIVE. And it sold five million copies in the US alone. Their debut album was nominated for four Grammy awards. Their follow up album, released in 1992, had their fourth number one single YOU’RE IN LOVE. They have sold over ten million albums worldwide over their storied career becoming one of the best-selling female groups in recorded music history.
Taking a break from recording and touring, all three have married (they still are married to their first husbands) and collectively have raised nine children as very hands-on moms.
Returning to recording in 2004 releasing three albums on Sony – their take on California classics (CALIFORNIA), a wonderful Christmas album (CHRISTMAS IN HARMONY), and a tribute album singing the hits of their parents (DEDICATED). All three albums charted in the Billboard top 50 and get airplay to this day.
The most unexpected “surprise” in their career was their appearance in the comedy classic BRIDESMAIDS in 2011 singing HOLD ON. It was a surprise in that they were told that they were simply performing in a “wedding scene.” The director, Judd Apatow never told them they were in the final scene and the punchline in the entire movie. That classic scene secured their place as one of the most beloved harmony groups ever.
And these best friends continue to record and harmonize with each other releasing a harmony-rich version of Harry Styles’ song BOYFRIENDS in November of 2022.
The DISTANCE is a solo acoustic project that blends an eclectic mix of his own personal musical influences that range from modern rock to rock and roll’s earliest days. His crowd-pleasing performances include popular singalongs from genres throughout multiple decades including pop, rock, grunge, Motown, country, and classics.
DJ Slice – Tony Turner
DJ Slice has been banging the wax since 1985 and is well versed in the art of mixing all styles of music, including house, hip-hop, R & B, country and rock. He is one of the original heavy hitters in the Michiana area and will guarantee a musical experience like none other.
Each Monday will feature Live Trivia night at Kankakee Grille New Buffalo, where guests have a chance to win gift cards ranging from $20-$50 in Four Winds Gift cards. Free admission to all guests. Cheating is prohibited. This includes utilizing cell phones or smart phones to come up with team answers. If a phone call or a text must be made, please respect the game and wait until all answers have been submitted. Teams will be disqualified if caught cheating.
1st Place – $50 Four Winds Gift Card
2nd Place – $30 Four Winds Gift Card
3rd Place – $20 Four Winds Gift Card
Pamela Rocha has been playing piano, singing vocals, and loving music since the 1980’s when she was just a kid. She has competed in piano competitions at a young age and has played with various musical acts throughout northwest Indiana over the past 30 years. Pamela also composes music and has also taken part in different recording projects. Along with loving performing, Pamela also enjoys teaching piano and music theory. Music is a way to communicate with others on a deeper level and that is what Pamela enjoys most about what she gets to do!
Chris Burch is an alternative rock influenced artist who has been performing to audiences across the country. His sets are like a rock n’ roll history lesson, with selections from the 50’s to today. Using a guitar as the spill canvas for his sharp song-writing, raw vocal appeal, and bravely fresh sound, Chris delivers his songs with an intensity that sets him apart from his contemporaries.
The wait is over. Legendary frontman Stephen Pearcy and guitar virtuoso Warren DeMartini, the driving forces behind RATT, are back together, in Pearcy | DeMartini, bringing fans the music that made their band one of the most influential of the ‘80s hard rock scene.
RATT’s signature Sunset Strip sound helped define a generation, making them one of the biggest rock acts of the mid-’80s. As pioneers of Hollywood’s legendary hard rock scene, Pearcy and DeMartini became true rock legends—headlining massive arena tours with RATT and selling multiple platinum albums.
Now, Pearcy and DeMartini are reigniting the fire, delivering the music that made RATT a household name with an all-star lineup including Carlos Cavazo (Quiet Riot, Ratt), Blas Elias (Slaughter) and Matt Thorne (Ratt).
“Never say never, right? There was no question when the idea was brought up doing something with Warren again. It wasn’t even a thought, its time, let’s do this. Pearcy | DeMartini back in the cellar, let’s go!” says Stephen.
“I am thrilled to get back in front of the fans, performing these songs they made famous,” adds Warren.
This isn’t just a band—it’s a celebration of the music that made Hollywood the epicenter of hard rock. With iconic anthems like Round and Round, Lay It Down, and Wanted Man, Pearcy | DeMartini are bringing the arena rock spectacle back to life with the energy, attitude, and authenticity only the originals can deliver.
Get ready to RATT n’ ROLL!
DJ H2 is one of Michiana’s most creative and inventive DJs. His high energy sound instantly transports you to your happy place. DJ H2 has entertained all across Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan. With his special styles of mixing his career has let him entertain for dignitaries, politicians and artists from all walks of life. His music expertise covers all styles, but he specializes in dance music.
Frank Ruvoli is a Northwest Indiana native and has been performing live for over 10 years. His fun, upbeat, unique style has been compared to an acoustic mixture of Dave Matthews, John Mayer, and Jack Johnson. Over his career, Ruvoli has released 3 Ep’s, 3 singles, and most recently a full-length album entitled For Better or For Worse in October 2022. He has shared the stage with national acts such as: Los Lonely Boys, Clayton Anderson, and Robert Rolfe Feddersen, among others; and has performed throughout the Midwest and beyond for various events, venues, colleges and universities, and festivals.
Jon grew up in the South Bend area. Now residing in Nashville, Jon continues to write, record and perform as a soloist and with his band around the north, south and eastern US. He has been a recording artist for a label as well as releasing his own music that can be found on iTunes and Spotify. His music has also been used for nationally syndicated television and commercials.
Each Monday will feature Live Trivia night at Kankakee Grille New Buffalo, where guests have a chance to win gift cards ranging from $20-$50 in Four Winds Gift cards. Free admission to all guests. Cheating is prohibited. This includes utilizing cell phones or smart phones to come up with team answers. If a phone call or a text must be made, please respect the game and wait until all answers have been submitted. Teams will be disqualified if caught cheating.
1st Place – $50 Four Winds Gift Card
2nd Place – $30 Four Winds Gift Card
3rd Place – $20 Four Winds Gift Card
PS Dump Your Boyfriend (aka Pfreak Show) has been knocking the socks, shoes, pants and halter-tops off midwest club goers for the past 5 years with no real end in sight. This multimedia show is woven into a rambunctious cocktail shaker of psychedelic rock, spaced-out funk, hardcore rock, freestyle disco rap and everything else under the sun up to, and including the proverbial kitchen sink.
Pablo’s Great Revenge is a popular group based out of the South Bend, Indiana area, playing an eclectic mix of rock, pop, soul, and country hits from the past 50+ years as well as their original music. The trio performs stripped-down acoustic versions of their set, and features singer Joey Garcia accompanied by keyboardist Kevin Krizmanich and guitarist Chris Keck. With their full talent on display and the wide variety of musical genres covered, PGR is sure to connect with and entertain any audience.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd Promotes Two Albums and One BIG Tour
‘Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol. 2’ AND ‘Young Fashioned Ways’ with Bobby Rush
With a career as distinctive as Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s, it’s unusual to say “this is the first time” but, in a rare career first for a multi-platinum, Grammy nominated global superstar who has seen and done it all, Shepherd has two spectacular albums to promote simultaneously.
With the acclaimed ‘Dirt on My Diamonds Vol. 2’ having been released in September, and the widely anticipated upcoming release, ‘Young Fashioned Ways’ with the legendary Bobby Rush (to be released on March 21, 2025) Kenny Wayne Shepherd has quite a tour planned for his fans.
Shepherd’s shows have become legendary with his incendiary guitar and the ceaseless energy the band projects showcasing his hit songs from Ledbetter Heights and Trouble Is…all the way through Dirt On My Diamonds Vol. 2. And now, with the added bonus of Bobby Rush, fans can expect a truly unique experience. “This tour will be incredibly special,” says Shepherd. “There are so many different ways to structure the show having Bobby out with us. The current plan is to start the show with a set with just me and Bobby, stripped down, featuring songs from our new album together and then transition into the Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band set.”
Taking fans on a musical journey of the many different sounds of Blues music is something Shepherd has mastered. “There will be acoustic, electric, and everything in between.”
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: https://www.kennywayneshepherd.net/
Scott and Amy Hicks are an acoustic duo from NW Indiana and have been performing in the music industry for many years. In 2023, they joined forces in both marriage and music to perform acoustic “Gen X” rock from the 80s, 90s and 00s. Their song list is ever growing and includes artists such as Natalie Merchant, Green Day, Peter Gabriel, U2, Radiohead, and Alanis Morissette. Scott and Amy enjoy performing all over the Region of NW Indiana, and can often also be found at several venues in SW Michigan and NE Illinois.
Raucous Leo is one of the newest and hottest rock-n-roll dance bands in Southwest Michigan filling the dance floors at the local bars and other establishments performing a wide variety of music from artists such as Janis Joplin, Journey, GnR, Gretchen Wilson, Pat Benatar, AC/DC, Halestorm, Dorothy, Pink, The Warning, and more…
DJ 30X’s musical talents have been heavily influenced by his world travels and strong faith. While specializing in 80’s, 90’ pop and house/EDM music he is versed in all styles of music and has been entertaining professionally since 2014. He is a family man first to his 4 kids, music is his next love. He is also very versed in crowd participation and just having fun. Join him for a night you won’t forget.
A professional musician for over 30 years, Angelo performs a wide variety of musical styles from a repertoire of over 1000 songs, while easily accommodating most any request, Angelo’s command of the guitar and skilled musicianship allows him to improvise intricate guitar solos and syncopated rhythms into the performance Seamlessly blending songs into one another or rearranging songs played instrumental for solo guitar, Angelo interprets the music rather than strictly imitating it, making him one of the most sought after musicians around northwest the Chicago area.
Each Monday will feature Live Trivia night at Kankakee Grille New Buffalo, where guests have a chance to win gift cards ranging from $20-$50 in Four Winds Gift cards. Teams are currently limited to eight persons. Free admission to all guests. Cheating is prohibited. This includes utilizing cell phones or smart phones to come up with team answers. If a phone call or a text must be made, please respect the game and wait until all answers have been submitted. Teams will be disqualified if caught cheating.
1st Place – $50 Four Winds Gift Card
2nd Place – $30 Four Winds Gift Card
3rd Place – $20 Four Winds Gift Card
Join us at The Pool for a Hippie Party featuring Dick Diamond and the Dusters.
Dick Diamond and the Dusters:
Dick Diamond and the Dusters is a 6-member, retro-inspired, ridiculously entertaining cover band that’s been winning over crowds throughout Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana since 2010.
Dick Diamond and the Dusters is not your average live band, but more of a production with costumes, hilarious fictitious characters and a boat load of shenanigans!
Our cover selections range from the 60s to the present, with an emphasis on the most popular, high-energy dance selections and medleys. We bring a fresh approach to reliving the glory days while embracing today’s pop favorites. We have a timeless catalog of catchy and memorable songs spanning over seven decades to the present.
2025 will mark the 16th year of the highly successful, hit-filled summer package, THE “HAPPY TOGETHER” TOUR. The touring sensation that has crisscrossed the nation delighting audiences for over a decade returns this summer with a show full of chart-topping hits from the ‘60s and ‘70s – an undeniable 55 Billboard “Top 40” smashes. The Tour is once again joined by THE TURTLES, who also act as musical hosts for the evening.
THE TURTLES are best known for their harmony-heavy California pop sound. With such hits as “Elenore,” “She’d Rather Be with Me,” “It Ain’t Me Babe,” “You Showed Me,” and the title of the tour, “Happy Together,” the band ruled the airwaves in the late ‘60s. Ron Dante joins the line-up to delight with his own mega-hits, “Sugar Sugar,” and “Tracy.”
Few groups have ever reached the musical heights with hits from 1962 – 1971 as JAY and the AMERICANS! This group charted an amazing Five Billboard “Top 10” hits and Twelve “Top 20” hit records. Their breakout hit was “She Cried.” Their next chart hit was “Only In America,” which they followed with hit songs “Come A Little Bit Closer,” “Cara Mia,” and “This Magic Moment,” which hit the “Billboard Top 10.”
LITTLE ANTHONY will feature all his timeless classics including: “Tears on My Pillow,” “Shimmy, Shimmy Ko-Ko Bop,” “I’m on the Outside (Looking In),” “Goin’ Out of My Head,” “Take Me Back,” “Hurt So Bad,” and more.
Also back on the Happy Together Tour for 2025 is GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP. Gary’s trademark voice will be belting out his hits one more time. Fans will affectionately remember “Young Girl,” “Over You,” “Woman, Woman,” “This Girl Is A Woman Now,” “Lady Willpower,” “Don’t Give In To Him,” and more.
Rounding out the performance at Four Winds New Buffalo are THE VOGUES who are also known for their harmony-driven soaring pop sound. They had numerous “Top 10” hits with singles such as “Five O’clock World,” “You’re the One,” “My Special Angel,” and “Turn Around Look At Me,” among others.
The tour has played more than 50 plus shows a year and 2025 will be no exception.
More information on the Happy Together Tour is available at https://happytogethertour.com/.
I’ve spent several years touring the world with Billy Ray Cyrus and more recently supporting acts such as Whiskey Myers, Charlie Daniels, BlackBerry Smoke, Travis Tritt, Ashley McBride, Pricilla Block and many more. I made my Grand Ole Opry Debut in 2016 and I’ve also had 2 albums break into the top 10 on the iTunes country Charts, my self titled EP landed at #7 and my latest EP “Last Of A Dying Breed” landed at #3
I was most recently named 2023 Midwest Country Music Organizations “Band Of The Year“ and Nominated for 2023 “Male Vocalist Of The Year” and “Song Of The Year”…
From performing at the Grand Ole Opry to appearing on The TODAY Show, Pickler & Ben and Good Morning Australia to writing songs for major television outlets including tracks for Sportsman’s Channel’s “Tailgate Adventures” and the theme song for “Fishers ATV World” on the Velocity Channel and NBC sports there isn’t a stage I don’t want to step on!!
Join us at Four Winds Casino New Buffalo’s Silver Creek Event Center for the return of Rockin Brewfest! With several Michigan Breweries and Food Vendors from across the state. Live entertainment will be provided by Noise Pollution: The AC/DC Experience and The Spazmatics.
General admission tickets purchased in advance for $35 include 10 tasting tickets redeemable for beer or food and one commemorative tasting glass.
General admission tickets purchased the day of the event are $45 and include 5 tasting tickets redeemable for beer or food and one commemorative tasting glass.
VIP tickets can also purchased in advance for $60 and include 15 tasting tickets redeemable for beer or food, one branded tasting glass, other swag items, and passed hors d’oeuvres! VIP ticket holders will also be able to enter the venue one hour early at 2 p.m. Eastern!
Please note this is a 21+ Event.
A professional musician for over 30 years, Angelo performs a wide variety of musical styles from a repertoire of over 1000 songs, while easily accommodating most any request, Angelo’s command of the guitar and skilled musicianship allows him to improvise intricate guitar solos and syncopated rhythms into the performance Seamlessly blending songs into one another or rearranging songs played instrumental for solo guitar, Angelo interprets the music rather than strictly imitating it, making him one of the most sought after musicians around northwest the Chicago area.
A proud alumna of Columbia College Chicago, with a degree in Contemporary Urban and Popular Music, Jessi epitomizes the dynamic singer. Standing as a testament to the saying “big things come in small packages” Jessi captivates audiences with her surprising powerhouse vocals. Effortlessly spanning across genres, she has become a sought-after vocalist in the corporate and wedding entertainment industry. Having honed her craft alongside some of the biggest wedding bands in Chicagoland, Jessi brings a wealth of experience to every performance.
Appearing as Michael Jackson, Jalles Franca moved to the United States from Brazil at the age of 16 to fulfill his dreams as a professional dancer in Las Vegas. At the age of 21 he began a seven year residency as a performer, dancer and percussionist at Studio 54 Nightclub at the MGM Hotel & Casino.
A long time fan of the ‘King Of Pop,’ Michael Jackson, Jalles began imitating the star’s signature dance moves during his routines at Studio 54 and various other venues. Soon after the passing of his idol, Jalles began dedicating his talents to pay tribute to the late superstar. Jalles has won numerous contests for “Best Michael Jackson Impersonator,” Best overall “look” and “Best Moonwalk.” Billing himself as “MJ THE LEGEND” Jalles has thrilled audiences at private and corporate events, festivals and tribute shows throughout Las Vegas, Hollywood, Dubai and more.
MJ Live is proud to feature the extremely talented Franca as one of its’ star performers and audiences in Las Vegas and in theaters across the country agree with their nightly standing ovations.
MJ Live features all of Michael Jackson’s biggest hits including Bad, Billie Jean, Beat It, Dangerous, Smooth Criminal, Black & White, I Want You Back and many others. Relive the energy, excitement, spectacle and pure joy of this legendary superstar and his music. Witness the awesome sound, lighting and effects. Feel the energy from the MJ LIVE band and mega talented MJ LIVE dancers. Sing along to some of the greatest hits of all time.
The Michael Jackson Estate is not affiliated, associated, or connected with “MJ Live Tribute Concert,” nor has it endorsed or sponsored “MJ Live Tribute Concert.” Michael Jackson is portrayed by Jalles Franca.
More information on the MJ Live Michael Jackson Tribute Concert can be found at https://mjliveshow.com/.
Over their first 28 years as the band HANSON, brothers Isaac, Taylor and Zac Hanson have made a significant mark in music.
Starting in 1992, they spent their first five years building a fanbase as an independent band in Tulsa, Oklahoma. After signing a record deal, they saw a meteoric rise with the 1997 international smash single “MMMBop” from their debut album Middle Of Nowhere followed by consecutive top 40 singles. A long line of hits, five more studio albums, multiple Grammy nominations and over 16 million album sales followed.
Over their second decade, the band charted their own course, running an independent label while maintaining a coveted connection with their global fanbase. In 2007, they launched a grassroots campaign to support poverty and HIV/AIDS relief in Africa (TakeTheWalk.net). In 2013 they launched HANSON Brothers Beer, premiering their new venture with a signature Pale Ale, Mmmhops, and in 2014 they launched the hugely successful Hop Jam Beer and Music Festival in their hometown of Tulsa, which boasts more than 30,000 attendees annually.
More information on HANSON is available at https://hanson.net/home.
April Wine is a Canadian rock band formed in 1969. Originally based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the band enjoyed international success in the 1970s and 1980s, releasing more than 20 albums since 1971.
April Wine’s extensive discography includes numerous gold and platinum selling albums featuring mega-hits like “Roller,” “I Like to Rock,” “You Could Have Been a Lady” and others. Best known for their international top 40 hit “Just Between You And Me,” an iconic power ballad that made them the very first Canadian band on MTV, April Wine went on to release over twenty albums and has received a combined total of 11 Juno Award nominations in the Group of the Year, Album of the Year, and Best Selling Single categories.
In 2009, April Wine was inducted into the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for being part of Canadian Music History for 40 years, and in 2010 the band was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Molly Hatchet firmly cemented their place in music history in the late seventies. They stood alongside other iconic Southern rock bands out of Jacksonville, Florida, such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers. A perfect mixture of English invasion rock, blues, country, and gospel remains the unique sound of Molly Hatchet.
They were the hardest hitting of the Southern rock bands at the time when, in 1978, Epic Records released Molly Hatchet’s self-titled debut album. It reached multi-platinum status, and the band established their reputation of working hard, playing tough and living fast through intense touring. During this time, they were on the road with Aerosmith, Bob Seger, The Rolling Stones, and many others.
In 1979, Molly Hatchet’s second album Flirtin’ with Disaster was released, and it also quickly achieved multi-platinum status. It skyrocketed the band into the stratosphere and performing an average of two hundred and fifty shows per year kept them busy.
Molly Hatchet next released Beatin’ the Odds (1980), followed by Take No Prisoners (1981), No Guts… No Glory (1983), The Deed Is Done (1984), and Double Trouble Live (1985).
In 1987, Bobby Ingram joined the band as lead guitarist and songwriter. They continued to play over two hundred dates a year. In 1989 they recorded Lightning Strikes Twice on Capitol Records. The Greatest Hits album was released in 1991 and certified gold.
In 1996 Devil’s Canyon (the first studio album in six years) was recorded in Hamburg, Germany on SPV/CBH Records with producers Kalle Trapp and Bobby Ingram. The album was voted the number one rock record in Europe in 1996 with rave reviews.
It was followed by Silent Reign of Heroes (CMC International, 1998), Kingdom of XII (Sanctuary, 2000), 25th Anniversary: Best of Re-Recorded (SPV Records, 2003), Warriors of the Rainbow Bridge (Steamhammer, 2005), Locked and Loaded – Live (Steamhammer, 2006), Justice (Steamhammer, 2010), Greatest Hits II (SPV Records, 2011), and most recently Battleground – Live (Steamhammer, 2019).
Molly Hatchet continues their worldwide tour, performing classic hits such as “Flirtin’ with Disaster,” “Devil’s Canyon,” “Gator Country,” “Whiskey Man,” and “Dreams I’ll Never See.”
The band’s current lineup consists of long-time members Bobby Ingram on lead guitar and John Galvin on keyboards, as well as Tim Lindsey on bass guitar and Shawn Beamer on drums, with Jimmy Elkins on vocals. Molly Hatchet continues to honor the legacies of those members who passed away (including Danny Joe Brown, David Hlubek, and Phil McCormack) by keeping the music alive, performing across the United States, and throughout the world.
Molly Hatchet celebrated their 40th anniversary with a world tour and the release of the double CD and triple vinyl live album titled Battleground. Recorded in both Germany and Switzerland on the SPV/Steamhammer label and featuring cover art by famed artist Paul Raymond Gregory (Dio, Uriah Heep, Saxon), Battleground has garnered rave reviews by their loyal fans, as well as the national and international press.
According to Bobby Ingram, “In recording this album, we compiled a four-decade long catalog of songs that our friends wanted to hear. They would tell us what songs they wanted on the album, and we would record them. Some of these songs have never been recorded on a live stage before, and we were honored and proud to be able to perform them for many generations of past, present, and future Southern rock fans.” After forty plus years Molly Hatchet is still workin’ hard, playin’ tough, livin’ fast, and Flirtin’ with Disaster!!!
More information on April Wine can be found at https://aprilwine.ca/.
More information on Molly Hatchet can be found at http://mollyhatchet.com/MollyHatchet/.
© Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. Must be 21 years of age. Please play responsibly. Four Winds Casinos are Equal Opportunity Employers.