Rock In Chicago

14/04/2026

Howdy!

It's hard to believe it's been ten years since the heyday of the Rock in Chicago showcases and festivals. Back then, our mission was simple: to give a massive platform to hardworking, independent musicians right here in our own backyard.

I am beyond thrilled to see that exact same spirit is not just alive but thriving today—and to be able to participate as a performer with Afrofuturistics!!!

Massive shoutout to Deb Sonzo and Jamie Ri from 13-Monsters and Music Graphics Chicago. They are the driving force behind the upcoming Goatstock 2026 Fest, and what they're doing is the pure embodiment of what Rock in Chicago was always about. It takes a ton of passion and grit to champion local artists, and Deb and Jamie are doing it right. It's all about supporting the local independent music community.

If you love Chicago's independent music scene, you need to be at this event. Let's pack the place and show our local bands some love!

— Erik Oldman

https://facebook.com/events/s/goatstock-xxvi/2461627520925898/

15/05/2025

Thank you to Steve Feigenbaum for bringing this up!

20/10/2024

Been a busy couple of years since the last podcast.
Every once in a while I pop on. Tonight was a good one. One of the OG Rock in Chicago Show guests played for the first time in five years out at the Outtaspace. They slayed as usual. Larvettes put in a great set and was treated to another performance by the OG punk legends in Silver Abuse. Stay well my friends.

23/01/2024

02/05/2023

https://gofund.me/64cec97d

Mars Williams is a beloved member of the creative music community whose influence radiates… Dave Rempis needs your support for Help Mars Williams Beat Cancer

14/01/2023

Completely gutted to learn about the loss of Southside Tanya Vega. She was an amazing supporter of the scene via her blog SouthSide On The Town and as a contributing writer for Rock In Chicago. I have fond memories of seeing her smiling face in the crowd for many of my Beneath The Stares shows back in the day. She also did a lot of work with blogging about student work and experiences at a npo stem program I worked at then. She was a great friend and human being. Please donate if you can. - Erik Oldman
Link in comments

01/12/2022

Huge thank you to all of my guests for the last 18 episodes of the Rock in Chicago Show. This year I really was able to branch out and meet some really cool people involved in our local music scene in Chicago. From promoters to engineers to our beloved artists from the various genre-facets of our music scene it creates quite an an amazing landscape. Most importantly thanks to all of you who have listened, from when I started this 10 years ago to when I rebooted in 2021.

I’ll be back with the show later in 2023 with a few updates to the format and new website. Happy holidays, everyone!

E

28/11/2022

Ha….
Some pretty wild lineups

15/11/2022

Our latest guest is celebrating their third anniversary this week: check it out !
Repost from
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Fortunately for us, Isaiah Collier will be back from his European tour for a special live performance at our anniversary party!

No cover. All ages welcome.
Live performance 8-9pm.

14/11/2022

Trey Elder has worn many hats since arriving in Chicago, ranging from sound engineer at the infamous Double Door, Head of Sales & Consulting at Intelligentsia Coffee, American whiskey connoisseur and educator, and Operations Manager of Jerry’s Restaurants. While at Jerry’s, Elder booked an eclectic array of music 7 nights a week for several years, organized many craft beer and spirits focused dinners and events, as well as oversaw all PR and marketing.

In 2019, Elder launched Quiet Pterodactyl, a non-profit that creates experiences, enjoyment, education, and entry into arts and music. In his “spare time”, Elder has created music in various original projects, as well as booked/promoted local and national touring acts at venues all over Chicago.

Elder is a member of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels, and currently serves on planning committees with the Andersonville Chamber of Commerceon Chicago’s north side.

Featured Tracks:

MIIRRORS: Sinistry
Moritat: Weapons
Neptune’s Core: Turning Red

Listen to the Rock in Chicago Show from our SoundCloud channel and whereever podcasts are available.

Trey Elder has worn many hats since arriving in Chicago, ranging from sound engineer at the infamous Double Door, Head of Sales & Consulting at Intelligentsia Coffee, American whiskey connoisseur and