Highland Park, Illinois

By Anita Maree

Ravinia Festival, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Highland Park, Illinois, beckons music lovers to indulge in an unforgettable summer of live performances. The 2024 concert lineup boasts a diverse array of acts, featuring legends like James Taylor, Robert Plant, Allison Krauss, and The Beach Boys with John Stamos, alongside anticipated shows by Daryl Hall with Elvis Costello, Norah Jones, Gipsy Kings, Crowded House, and more. Founded in 1904, Ravinia has become a cultural cornerstone, seamlessly blending classical sophistication with contemporary flair. Beyond the music, the festival’s picturesque setting invites patrons to partake in the cherished tradition of picnicking under the stars, fostering a sense of community and shared joy.

Whether drawn to the grandeur of orchestral masterpieces or the infectious energy of pop sensations, Ravinia Festival promises an unparalleled experience that transcends genres and captivates audiences of all ages. Unrated Magazine has been a trusted media source for concert reviews and photos from many of their shows over the years, so keep an eye out for a tremendous summer under the stars! For tickets and more information, visit their website: Ravinia Festival.

September 1, 2023

Ravinia Festival, Highland Park, IL

Photos and Review by Anita Maree

Carrie Underwood, the queen of country music, graced Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL, and she did not disappoint. With a voice that can move mountains and a stage presence that’s second to none, Underwood delivered a performance that left the audience spellbound.

The night began with Carrie taking stage with her band and guitar in hand performing Church Bells, and that set the stage for an incredible night of country favorites. Looking around, Ravinia’s gift shops must have sold the most cowboy hats that lit up than ever before. It was great to see the hats and the sea of cowboy boots on thousands of her fans.

Carrie performed other songs including “Blown Away,” “Undo It,” “Southbound,” and “See You Again”. Other crowd favorites included, “All-American Girl”, “Cowboy Casanova,” “Good Girl,” and “Two Black Cadillacs.”  Her vocals were flawless, effortlessly hitting high notes and her impressive range and control were on full display throughout the evening, reminding us why she’s one of the most celebrated voices in the industry.

What truly sets Carrie Underwood apart is her ability to connect with her audience. She shared personal stories and anecdotes between songs, making it feel like an intimate gathering of friends.  Her genuine and warm personality shone through as she interacted with fans, making everyone feel like they were a part of something special.

The set list was a perfect blend of her classic hits and songs from her latest album, ensuring that both long-time fans and newcomers had something to cherish. Highlights of the evening included soul-stirring renditions of “Before He Cheats,” “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” and “Something in the Water.” Her emotional performance of “Cry Pretty” left not a dry eye in the house, showcasing her incredible ability to convey raw emotion through her music.

The production values were nothing short of spectacular. The lighting, visuals, and choreography were all top-notch and added an extra layer of excitement to the already incredible show. The backing band and vocalists were incredibly talented, creating a seamless musical experience that left no room for disappointment.

In a world where live music has the power to heal, inspire, and unite, Carrie Underwood’s concert at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL was a shining example of the magic that happens when a gifted artist takes the stage. Her powerful voice, charismatic presence, and genuine connection with her fans left all with a sense of gratitude for being a part of this musical journey. Carrie Underwood truly is a superstar, and her performance last night will be etched in our memories for years to come. Huge thank you to Carrie Underwood for letting Unrated Magazine attend and provide photos with this exclusive concert review.  Another huge thanks to the beautiful outdoor venue Ravinia Festival for the wonderful hospitality.

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Arcada Theatre

St. Charles, IL

August 20, 2023

Review and all photos by Anita Maree

The Artimus Pyle Band (APB) rolled into St. Charles, IL playing the historic Arcada Theatre on August 20, 2023. From the moment the first note reverberated through the venue, it was evident that this was no ordinary concert. Pyle’s drumming prowess was awe-inspiring, infusing each beat with a vitality that radiated throughout the audience.
APB performance was an exhilarating journey through the annals of rock history, leaving an indelible mark on every soul present. Centered on the enigmatic drummer Artimus Pyle, the band’s concert was a testament to the enduring power of classic rock and Southern sound. APB band also includes the incredible talents of Brad Durden – vocals/keys, Scott Raines – vocals/guitar, Jerry Lyda – vocals/guitar, and Dave Fowler on bass.

Circling back some years, Artimus Pyle joined the original southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1974 and left it in 1977, and then he rejoined the band in 1987 and eventually left the band for good in 1991. In 2006, Artimus and his band mates were inducted into the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame. There is so much history with the band and timeless classic songs.
The APB musical chemistry was undeniable on Sunday Night, effortlessly weaving together the intricate melodies of Southern rock with an eclectic mix of classic hits. Guitar solos were masterful, alternating between soulful introspection and explosive crescendos that sent waves of energy through the crowd. The vocals soared with emotion, paying homage to the original tracks while imbuing them with a fresh vibrancy.
The band played 15 songs including hits like “Saturday Night Special” also “The Needle And The Spoon”, “That Smell”, “Simple Man”, “What’s Your Name”, “Sweet Home Alabama”, “Freebird” and an incredible performance of “Tuesday’s Gone”.
In a world of ever-evolving music trends, the Artimus Pyle Band remained a beacon of authenticity. Their concert wasn’t just a performance; it was a celebration of timeless southern rock, exceptional musicianship, and the enduring legacy of rock and roll. As the final chords reverberated through the air, it was evident that the Artimus Pyle Band had not only honored their storied past but also created an unforgettable memory for the audience to carry forward.

The band told the audience that a new album is being worked on to be released soon. They also were thrilled to work with Dolly Parton on her upcoming ‘rock-n-roll’ album that will feature the APB and Dolly performing “Freebird”.
Big wheels – they sure keep on turnin’

Here is a link to the movie review

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Review and Photos by Anita Maree

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A beautiful August summer night was glowing hot as three legendary bands hooked up for the “Letting It Go Show” tour and they rolled into Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre in Tinley Park, IL to showcase their hits to a sea of fans at the outdoor music venue.

Up next performing nine classics was the band Berlin.   Berlin is an American new wave/synth-pop band that achieved significant success in the 1980s.  The band has a few original members touring with them and Terri Nunn still showcases her sultry distinctive lead vocals.  The band performed all their hits including “Masquerade”, “No More Words”, “The Metro”, and during the song “Take My Breath Away” Terri left the stage and joined her fans in the arena seating area to sing with them the chorus.  The band ended their set with their breakthrough hit single “Sex (I’m A…).  During many of their songs the band played on the large video screens their timeless music videos from the 80’s and it was great to see these again. More bands should incorporate these into their shows.

Then, the band everyone was waiting for emerged. Boy George and Culture Club graced the stage bringing their vibrant energy and timeless hits to an ecstatic crowd. The air was filled with anticipation as fans of all ages gathered to witness the legendary band perform their classic hits.

As the lights dimmed, the unmistakable silhouette of Boy George emerged, adorned in his signature eclectic fashion, sending the audience into a frenzy of cheers and applause. The band kicked off the night with “Next Thing Will Be Amazing” and from the first note, it was evident that their musical prowess had not diminished over the years.

Boy George’s unique voice, with its velvety and soulful tones, soared through the venue as he effortlessly performed hits like “It’s A Miracle”, “I’ll Tumble 4 Ya”, and their break out hit “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me”. Boy George still has amazing stage presence as he engaged the crowd with his charismatic charm and witty banter between songs.

Culture Club’s musicians showcased their virtuosity, effortlessly transitioning between the infectious rhythms of their classic hits and the occasional surprise rearrangement like covering Bread’s “Everything I Own”. The skillful interplay between the band members was a testament to their years of camaraderie and musical collaboration.

One of the standout moments of the night was during “Time (Clock of the Heart),” where the crowd became a sea of waving hands and swaying bodies, singing along with heartfelt nostalgia. It was a beautiful reminder of the band’s enduring impact on multiple generations of music lovers.

Boy George told the audience he just celebrated his 62^nd birthday.  It was great to see Mikey Craig on bass and Roy Hay on guitar and keyboard.  The band had two incredible backing vocalists performing on most songs. 

The band’s set list also included crowd favorite “Church of the Poison Mind” and they intermixed the Wham hit “I’m Your Man” which was fun to hear. They also performed flawlessly “Miss Me Blind.”

The encore was nothing short of spectacular, with Boy George returning to the stage delivering a soul-stirring rendition of The Rolling Stone’s “Sympathy for the Devil”.  The crowd erupted during “Karma Chameleon” and they ended the night with the T.Rex cover “Bang a Gong (Get it On)”.

Boy George and Culture Club proved, once again, that their music remains as relevant and enchanting as ever. Their timeless melodies and message of love and acceptance united the audience in a memorable evening of joy and camaraderie. As the lights came up, fans left the venue with beaming smiles, dancing in the aisles, and cherishing the unforgettable experience of witnessing this iconic tour of three top notch bands.

Boy George Website | Facebook | YouTube | Twiter | Instagram | Tik Tok |

Howard Jones Website | Facebook | YouTube | Twiter | Instagram |

Berlin Website | Facebook | YouTube | Twiter | Instagram | Tik Tok

Ravinia Festival Highland Park, IL

photos and Review by Anita Maree

August 6, 2023

On the beautiful grounds of the outdoor music venue Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL the nearly sold-out audience experienced some silky smooth music from two incredible artists.

Keb’ Mo’ took the stage, igniting a musical fire that swept through the venue. His seasoned fingers danced across the strings of his guitar, producing a tapestry of blues and roots melodies that resonated deep within the hearts of the audience. With a voice that carried both raw emotion and soothing comfort, he transported us to a realm where time seemed to stand still.

Each song was a chapter of life, a story of love, struggle, and triumph. The crowd swayed and sang along, creating an atmosphere of shared connection. Keb’ Mo’s infectious energy and genuine smile radiated, inviting everyone into his world. His witty anecdotes between songs added a personal touch, forging a deeper bond with the crowd.  He performed songs including “Everything I Need”, “Life is Beautiful”, “She Just Wants to Dance”, and “All Dressed Up in Blue”.

The musicianship on display was a masterclass. The interplay between Keb’ Mo’s guitar and his bandmates was seamless, each note a testament to their skill and chemistry. From foot-tapping grooves to soul-stirring ballads, the performance was a dynamic showcase of his diverse musical influences.

As the final notes faded with “The Worst Is Yet to Come”, the applause thundered, and the smiles on the faces in the audience were evidence of the magic we had all experienced. Keb’ Mo’ had woven an unforgettable night of music, leaving us with a sense of gratitude for his artistry and a longing for more. The concert was a testament to the timeless power of music to unite, uplift, and inspire.

Next up was Boz Scaggs, and he graced the stage with timeless charisma and musical finesse, captivating the audience in a night of sheer delight. With a voice that has only grown richer over the years, Scaggs effortlessly transported us through his decades-spanning catalog. From the sultry blues of “Lowdown” to the soulful  “Lido Shuffle,” his performance was spot on.

Backed by an exceptional band, Scaggs’ guitar work was a revelation, weaving intricate melodies that wove seamlessly with the rhythm section. The crowd swayed and sang along, united in a shared appreciation for the musical journey he crafted. Each song was a story, a snapshot of a life lived, and Scaggs’ between-song anecdotes added a personal touch that endeared him to the audience. He performed many songs including “Jojo”, “Miss Riddle”, “Harbor Lights”, and “Look What You’ve Done To Me”.

The venue was alive with an electric atmosphere, a testament to the enduring appeal of Scaggs’ music. His stage presence exuded a warmth that transcended the footlights, making everyone feel like a welcomed guest in his living room. The energy in the air was palpable, and as the final chords of the encore reverberated, the applause was thunderous, echoing the sentiment of a captivated crowd.

Boz Scaggs’ concert was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of a musical legacy that has left an indelible mark on generations. His ability to effortlessly traverse genres, from blues and rock to R&B and jazz, showcased his versatility and musical prowess. As the night drew to a close, there was a collective sense of gratitude for having been part of an unforgettable evening of music, shared in the presence of a true icon.

Boz Scaggs Website | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter | Instagram |

Keb Mo Website | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter | Instagram |

Arcada Theatre, St. Charles, IL

July 15, 2023

Review and Photos by Anita Maree

Singer, songwriter, and mastermind Tom Keifer has proven once again that in your face rock-n-roll songs are alive and well. The Keifer band concert was a rock ‘n’ roll extravaganza. The band rolled into St Charles, IL on July 15, 2023, at the beautiful Arcada Theatre. Taking the stage with undeniable charisma, Keifer launched into his set with the powerful “Life Was Here” followed by “Hot and Bothered”.  His distinctive raspy vocals held a raw, emotional quality that had the crowd up on their feet the entire night singing to every song, fist pumping, and just having an incredible time.

The sold-out theatre of fans heard the hits including “Heartbreak Station”, “Coming Home”, “Nobody’s Fool”, “Night Songs”, and “Shake Me”.  He added in songs from his solo albums including “The Death of Me”, and “Solid Ground”.  The soulful ballads of ‘Nobody’s Fool’ and “Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone)” brought a profound sense of nostalgia and touched the hearts of the fans.  

What stood out most was Keifer’s undeniable passion for his craft. Every lyric he sang seemed to come from the depths of his soul, and he poured himself into every chord he played. This genuine connection with the music and the audience created an electric atmosphere that engulfed the venue.

The concert’s set list was carefully curated, striking a perfect balance between classic Cinderella hits and songs from his solo albums. The band’s tight performance and impressive musicianship complemented Keifer’s talent, elevating the overall experience to greater heights. Shout out to lead guitarist and backing vocalist Tony Higbee as he unleashed his mastery on guitar. The entire Keifer band was pure gold – and all live with powerful energy and in your face rock-n-roll hits.

As the show reached its climax the encore performances included his world-wide hit “Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone)”.  Keifer also covered the Beatles hit “With a Little Help From My Friends” and ended the night with “Gypsy Road.”

Tom Keifer’s concert was an unforgettable journey through his solid rock songs, a testament to his enduring legacy as a rock icon. His timeless talent and infectious energy left fans craving for more, making it an unforgettable night of rock euphoria. Tom Keifer proved once again why he’s a rock legend.

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Concert Review of Belinda Carlisle

Review and all photos by Anita Maree

Belinda Carlisle proves she still has the beat as she shined performing her classic hits !

Belinda Carlisle’s concert was an extraordinary celebration of her remarkable career and musical legacy. From the moment she stepped on stage, it was evident that she still possesses the same magnetic charisma and vocal prowess that made her a ’80s icon.

Circling back to 1981, Belinda fronted the all female band The Go-Go’s. The band went on to become one of the most successful American bands of the 1980s, and becoming the first and only all-female band that wrote their own music and played their own instrumentsto ever achieve a No. 1 album, ‘Beauty and the Beat’. The Go-Go’s were inducted into the Rock-n-Roll hall of fame in 2021. Belinda also has had a very successful solo career with many world-wide hits under her belt. In May 2023, Belinda released a five track EP called ‘Kismet’ with songs penned by American songwriter Diane Warren.

When Belinda took stage with her four piece band at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts inA Skokie, IL she simply sparkled – just like her awesome skirt.  The venue was packed with a sea of her fans cheering her on song after song. From the balcony seats to front row, her fans danced the night away and sang along with all her hits.   

She opened the night with her song, ‘(We Want) The Same Thing,” and the crowd instantly erupted with excitement. The energy in the venue was electric as she effortlessly moved through her extensive catalogue of hits. Her voice, as strong and vibrant as ever, soared through the air, as she danced away and with a few songs played tambourine.

She performed crowd classics like “Head Over Heels”, “I Get Weak”, “Circle In the Sand”, “Leave a Light On”, and her new song “Big Big Love”. 

The joy and nostalgia in the air were palpable, as memories from the past mingled with the present especially when she performed her mega hits “Mad About You”, “We Got the Beat”, “Heaven is a Place On Earth”, “Vacation”, “Runaway Horses” and “Our Lips Are Sealed”.

Belinda’s stage presence was captivating. Her connection with the audience felt personal and genuine, as she shared stories and interacted with fans throughout the performance. It was evident that she genuinely appreciated the love and support she received. In the end, Belinda Carlisle’s concert was a journey through time, evoking cherished memories and inspiring new ones. Her passion, talent, and connection with the audience made for an unforgettable evening that left concertgoers with smiles on their faces and hearts full of gratitude for her timeless songs.

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2023 Bryan Adams with Joan Jett & the Blackhearts

July 2, 2023

Review:  Dan Brodersen

Photos:  Anita Maree

Rock & Roll Powerhouses Unleashed: Joan Jett and Bryan Adams Join Forces for an Epic Tour

What makes over 10,000 fans happy?  An incredible night of rock music.  The Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL welcomed the ‘So Happy It Hurts’ tour on July 2, 2023.

Starting the night off was rock-n-roll hall of famer Joan Jett with her band The Blackhearts. The Blackhearts just released their new digital EP called ‘Mindsets’ and it was great to hear fresh new songs sprinkled into her set list of superior classic rock hits. The Blackhearts opened with their new song, Shooting Into Space, and the fans immediately felt the energy. Joan Jett’s stage mastery and raw-punching vocals shine with unmatched intensity.  Fans stood up and sang along to Joan’s classic world-wide hits like Cherry Bomb, Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah), Fake Friends, Crimson & Clover, Bad Reputation, I Hate Myself for Loving You, and of course her biggest hit, I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll.  The band also performed a few other new songs including the catchy new single If You’re Blue, and (Make the Music Go) Boom which has the perfect blend of the timeless punk/rock sound fans are familiar with. The band concluded their set with the thoughtful new bar-clinking song Whiskey Goes Good. Unrated Magazine has covered Joan Jett and The Blackhearts for nearly 40 years. The entire band was on fire, leaving no doubt in the minds of fans that they still dominate the music scene with unparalleled energy and passion.

Sometimes with an arena filling beep of a car horn, rock-n-roll just forges on, and that is exactly what happened.  About 10 minutes before Bryan Adams and his band took the stage for their two hour set, from behind the giant video screen, out came a flying convertible that made its way around the arena with headlights on. It was a play off his video ‘So Happy It Hurts’ that features his mom and dog.  After the flying car returned behind the massive video screen, the band walked onto the stage to start the show under a mystic dull red stage lighting with their fun new song Kick Ass. The legendary rock icon brought his electrifying energy and performed his classic hits including Somebody, Please Forgive Me, One Night Love Affair, Heaven, (Everything I Do) I Do It For You, and huge crowd favorite Summer of ’69.  Audience participation was happening with every song as the fans were singing and dancing along to each song he performed.  Of course, the concert would not have been complete without a few more of his iconic hits. He performed Cuts Like A Knife, Run to You, Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman, Can’t Stop This Thing We Started, and Straight From the Heart.

The Canadian singer/songwriter  Bryan Adams’ is a testament to his enduring talent and unwavering connection with his fans. Through a seamless fusion of classic hits and new songs, he showcased his ability to evolve while staying true to his rock roots. With each electrifying moment, Adams proved once again why his songs remain timeless classics, leaving Chicago in awe and with memories that will last a lifetime.

As his song says, “ If you like kick ass rockin’ music, we’re a kick ass rockin’ band.”  Why yes you are!

Bryan Adams Website | Facebook |YouTube |Twitter | Instagram | TikTok |

Joan Jett Website | Facebook |YouTube |Twitter | Instagram | TikTok |

April 22, 2023 – Rivers Casino, Des Plaines, IL

Photos and Review: Anita Maree

Cheap Trick’s concert at Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, IL was a nostalgic journey through the band’s extensive career, delivering a high-octane performance that left the audience feeling elated and thoroughly entertained. The band, which formed in the 1970s, has maintained its signature sound and style throughout the years, and it was evident that they still have a loyal fan base that spans across generations.

From the opening notes of “Hello There” to the closing chords of “Goodnight,” the band gave a dynamic performance that showcased their musical prowess. Robin Zander’s vocals were powerful and emotive, while Rick Nielsen’s guitar playing was nothing short of impressive. Tom Petersson’s bass playing and Daxx Nielsen’s drumming provided a solid foundation for the band’s sound, bringing an energy that kept the audience engaged and dancing throughout the night.

In addition to the band’s iconic hits like “Dream Police” and “Surrender,” they also performed some lesser-known tracks that pleased longtime fans. Cheap Trick’s stage presence was fantastic, with Nielsen’s showmanship and playful banter with the crowd creating a fun atmosphere. The band’s chemistry was palpable, and it was clear that they were having a great time on stage.

Overall, Cheap Trick’s concert was a phenomenal experience that showcased the band’s talent and longevity. Their performance left a lasting impression on the audience, reminding everyone why they are one of the most iconic rock bands of all time.

Set list – Des Plaines IL – 4/22/23

Hello There

Radio Lover

California Man

Big Eyes

She’s Tight

Hot Love

Cry Cry

Baby Loves to Rock

Yeah Yeah

If You Want My Love

Southern Girls

Need Your Love

I Know What I Want

The Flame

I Want You to Want Me

Dream Police

Surrender

Auf Wiedersehen

Goodnight

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The Arcada Theatre

Review and photos by Anita Maree

The Dead Daisies + Enuff Z’nuff = Win-Win

Walking into the beautiful Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, IL is always a thrill because you know as soon as they open the doors there will be a band or two that will rock your socks off.  One of the final rocking shows of the summer of 2022 did not disappoint.  Opening the night was the always sensational rockers Enuff Z’Nuff from Blue Island, IL. 

Unrated Magazine has covered this band for years and they always give 110% showcasing their catchy hits.  Chip Z’Nuff, co-founder of the band is lead singer playing bass guitar, Tory Stoffregen and Tony Fennell guitars, and Dan Hill on drums.  They played many of their classics including ‘Into the Groove’, ‘Baby Loves You’, ‘Fly High Michelle’, ‘New Thing’ and also performed the classic Wings hit ‘Jet’. 

Up next were the Australian-American rock supergroup The Dead Daisies.  The line-up of members for this band has changed quite a bit over the years since forming in 2013 but currently on stage are David Lowy on rhythm guitar, Doug Aldrich on lead guitar, Brian Tichy on drums, and with Glenn Hughes ill, the fantastic replacement singer for the night was Croatian rock singer Dino Jelusick. 

Dino is an incredible vocalist that peaked up each song to another level. They kicked off the night with ‘Long Way To Go’ and performed hard rocking favorites like ‘Unspoken’, ‘Rise Up’, ‘Dead & Gone’, ‘Radiance’, ‘My Fate’, and ‘Face Your Fear’.  Their fans were on their feet the entire show with fist pumping in the air.  Check out this band as they tour all over the world and their new album Radiance will be released soon.

Catch the tour! 

Visit thedeaddaisies.com and enuffzuff.com for tour news and more!