Events
SOUND OPINIONS featuring Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot: IT WAS 50 YEARS AGO TODAY
Thursday, June 23, virtual event via ZOOM (7 - 8:30 pm)
IT WAS 50 YEARS AGO TODAY: Albums from 1972 still inspiring and influencing musicians 50 years later
Some fans think that all of the innovations which continue to echo in popular music today came in the ‘60s. Greg and Jim will make the case that 1972 was actually every bit as creative and influential in the long term. They’ll examine the albums they think were enduring masterpieces created a half-century ago, and follow their threads into the present.
Teaser: "Exile on Main Street" by the Rolling Stones and "Ziggy Stardust" by David Bowie have already made the cut!
Sound Opinions LIVE with Superchunk
1:00 PM at Goose Island Tap Room 1800 W. Fulton Chicago, IL
Join Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions with Superchunk at the Goose Island Tap Room.
Take a late lunch hour and join Jim DeRogatis & Greg Kot for a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions at the Goose Island Tap Room on Fulton.
This time we’re featuring an interview and acoustic performance from Superchunk.
It's on Monday, June 6 at the Goose Island Tap Room in Chicago. And it's FREE!
Jim and Greg are big fans of the latest Superchunk album, Wild Loneliness.
Greg says he loves the way the album confronts the problems facing the world with the sentiment of "let's get through this."
Jim says "three decades and they've never sucked!"
Sound Opinions LIVE with Kurt Vile
1:00 PM at Goose Island Brewhouse 1800 N. Clybourn Chicago, IL
Join Jim DeRogatis & Greg Kot for a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions with Kurt Vile at the Goose Island Brewhouse.
Take a late lunch hour and join Jim DeRogatis & Greg Kot for a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions at the Goose Island Brewhouse on Clybourn.
This time we’re featuring an interview and solo performance from Kurt Vile.
It's on Friday, May 27 at the Goose Island Brewhouse in Chicago. And it's FREE!
Kurt Vile’s new album, (watch my moves), is his first release in partnership with Verve Records. The first single “Flyin (like a fast train),” is inspired by his lifelong love of trains. The song is a poetic tribute to Vile’s father who worked as a train conductor for decades and pays homage to Philadelphia’s SEPTA Regional Rail.
Recorded mainly at OKV Central—Vile’s newly created home studio in the Mount Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia—(watch my moves) was self-produced along with help from longtime collaborator Rob Schnapf (Richard Thompson, Elliott Smith). Across the record—which includes 14 originals as well as a version of Bruce Springsteen’s “Wages of Sin”—Vile pulls his talents in unexpected directions, resulting in a vibrant, yet meditative album propelled by his trademark laid-back charm and curious spirit.
Drink a beer and enjoy the music of Kurt Vile in this exclusive, intimate performance.
Sound Opinions LIVE with Pedro the Lion
11:30 AM at Goose Island Tap Room 1800 W. Fulton Chicago, IL 60612
Join Jim DeRogatis & Greg Kot for a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions with David Bazan of Pedro the Lion at the Goose Island Tap Room.
Pedro the Lion has been the musical project of David Bazan since the 1990s. His latest album is Havasu, an exploration of the year his family lived in that Arizona vacation town when he was in seventh grade. It’s the second in a planned five album cycle about each city his family lived in when he was growing up.
From 1998 -2004 Pedro the Lion released four full-length albums that drew on elements of slowcore, emo, punk and indie rock. From 2009 -2017 Bazan released four albums under his own name that added more analog synthesizers and country sounds to the mix. In 2019 he revived the Pedro the Lion name for the album Phoenix, garnering some of the best reviews of his career. Through it all, Bazan’s songwriting has always been haunted by the legacy of American evangelical Christianity.
Drink a beer and enjoy the music of Pedro the Lion in this exclusive, intimate performance.
The recording will run from approximately 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM.
Please be there promptly at 11:15 AM to secure your spot.
Separating the Art from the Artist: A Conversation with Greg Kot, Jim DeRogatis and Althea Legaspi
Saint Xavier University: McGuire Hall (Warde Academic Center) 7-8:30pm Free parking in Lot 12 (off of 103rd St.) Co-sponsored by Oak Lawn Public Library
Since the fall of 2017, the #MeToo movement has shined a bright and long overdue spotlight on sexual harassment and assault in many aspects of American culture, including Hollywood, media and politics. However, the music world has lagged behind. R. Kelly, Chris Brown, Ryan Adams, Marilyn Manson, and XXXTentacion have all been in the headlines recently for allegations tied to sexual and emotional abuse. And there is a long, troubling history of groupie culture stretching from Elvis to Led Zeppelin to the present. If we listen to their music and support their concerts, are we enabling them to continue inappropriate and destructive behavior?
Jim, Greg and Althea will examine this issue and ask an even bigger question. All of us, in the worlds of journalism, cultural programming and academia are free-speech absolutists. But what is our responsibility if we enjoy – or fail to speak out about – the troubling themes in an artist’s work? If we revel in Woody Allen’s films or Louis C.K.’s comedy, are we muting the women who have told harrowing tales about these men? As fans and critics, can we really separate the art from the artist? And, perhaps more importantly: Should we? We’ll start the discussion and quickly turn it over to a back-and-forth with you to hear your thoughts and questions, so please join us.
POSTPONED: Sound Opinions Live: Lucy Dacus
Join Sound Opinions hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a live taping of Sound Opinions with Lucy Dacus.
Her album "Home Video" is one of their favorites of 2021. They'll talk with Lucy first, then she'll play a short set with her band. Listen to Jim and Greg’s review of "Home Video" on Sound Opinions.
Tickets are free, but must be reserved in advance.
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination and a matching photo ID is required for entry. Masks must be worn at all times while inside.
Sound Opinions Live in Philadelphia: Joan Shelley
Sound Opinions is headed eastbound for a LIVE taping in Philadelphia. Jim and Greg will be joined by the extremely talented singer/songwriter Joan Shelley!
It's all happening November 12th at the Goose Island Philly Brewhouse. This event is free but you need a ticket.
The recording will run from approximately 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Have a beer and spend your lunch break with Sound Opinions and Joan Shelley!
Soulless: The Case Against R. Kelly by Jim DeRogatis
Sound Opinions co-host Jim DeRogatis is marking the publication of a book 19 years in the making, Soulless: The Case Against R. Kelly, arriving in stores the week of June 3.
He will be reading at Word bookstore in Jersey City (123 Newark Ave.) at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, June 3, and at WNYC’s Greene Space (44 Charlton St., N.Y.C.) on Tuesday, June 4, where he'll lead a panel discussion for a special podcast taping with #MeToo founder Tarana Burke and writer and activist Jamilah Lemeiux. At 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, Jim will read and be part of a panel discussion with former Sun-Times colleagues Mary Mitchell and Abdon Pallasch moderated by writer and activist Mikki Kendall at the Hideout in Chicago, 1354 W. Wabansia, with music to follow from Some Velvet Evening and Vortis. Tickets are required -- the event benefits Our Music My Body -- and books will be on sale from Women and Children First. He will also join the founders of #MuteRKelly in discussion at the Harris Theatre on June 13 as part of the Chicago Humanities Fest. More info for all of these events follows via the links below.
Word reading, 7:30 p.m. June 3, 123 Newark Ave. Jersey City
WNYC Greene Space taping/discussion, 7 p.m. June 4, 44 Charlton St. NYC
Hideout event, 7 p.m. June 8, 1354 W. Wabansia St. Chicago
Chicago Humanities Fest, 6 p.m. June 13, 2033 W North Ave. Chicago
Sound Opinions listeners can use the promo code soulless15 to get a $15 off the ticket price.
Sound Opinions Live: The Mountain Goats
In a possible Sound Opinions first, we welcome a group with the #1 record in America for an interview and performance. In League With Dragons by The Mountain Goats claimed the top spot in Billboard's vinyl chart this week.
And you can spend an afternoon with the chart-topping Mountain Goats as they join Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions at Thalia Hall. It's all happening on Thursday, May 16th at Thalia Hall in Chicago. And it's FREE!! The recording will run from approximately 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. Please be there promptly at 2:45 p.m. to secure your spot.
12 Albums that you haven’t Heard, that you need to know about
We're all familiar with the standard lists of "The Greatest Albums in Rock History" from Rolling Stone magazine, VH1 and the like, and they're always full of the usual suspects. In this presentation, at Evanston Rocks, Jim and Greg will introduce to you albums that they consider every bit as classic and essential as, say, "Sgt. Pepper's" in terms of musical and lyrical brilliance and enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians, but which aren't often cited in the canon, and which you may never heard! Info and tickets here
Sound Opinions Live: Ex Hex
Spend your lunch break with Jim, Greg, and Ex Hex!
It’s all happening on Wednesday, April 10th at the Goose Island Tap Room in Chicago.
The recording will start promptly at 12 p.m. Details can be found HERE
The Top 10 Most Important Artists in Chicago’s Musical History
Jim and Greg trace the rich musical history of Chicago through the 10 artists they feel have contributed the most enduring and influential sounds over the past half-century at Evanston Rocks. Info and tickets here
Sound Opinions Live: Sharon Van Etten
End your work week a little early with Jim & Greg and Sharon Van Etten!
It’s all happening on Friday, February 15th at Thalia Hall in Chicago.
The recording will start promptly at 3 p.m. Details can be found HERE
Sound Opinions Live: Sarah Shook & The Disarmers
Wrap up your week the right way with some FREE music!
Come see a live taping of Sound Opinions featuring a a special performance from Sarah Shook & The Disarmers.
It's at 5 pm on Friday, January 18 at Lincoln Hall in Chicago. And it is FREE!!
The event is free but you need a ticket. Details can be found HERE
Sound Opinions Live: Phoebe Bridgers
Spend your lunch break with Sound Opinions, the music of Phoebe Bridgers, and a Goose Island Beer.
Come see a live taping of Sound Opinions featuring a a special performance from sing/songwriter Phoebe Bridgers.
It's at noon on Wednesday, April 18 at the Goose Island Tap Room in Chicago. And it is FREE!!
The event is free but you need a ticket. Details can be found HERE
Sound Opinions Live: Margo Price
Join Jim DeRogatis & Greg Kot for a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions featuring a special performance from Margo Price.
It's at 11:00 on Friday, April 13 at the Goose Island Barrel Warehouse in Chicago. And it's FREE!!
The event is FREE but you need a ticket. More information available HERE
The Beatles vs. The Rolling Stones: Sound Opinions on the Great Rock’n’Roll Rivalry
Join Jim and Greg for a discussion about the book they co-wrote together, The Beatles vs. The Rolling Stones.
Thursday, February 22 at 8 pm at Evanston Rocks, 1012 Church Street, Evanston, IL
Tickets: http://evanstonrocks.com/events/soundopinions/
Book-signing follows the event. Books available for $20 cash ($35 value).
Sound Opinions Live: Iron & Wine
Join Jim DeRogatis & Greg Kot for a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions featuring a special solo performance from Sam Beam of Iron & Wine.
It's at 1:00 on Thursday, October 12 at the Goose Island Barrel Warehouse in Chicago. And it's FREE!!
The event is FREE but you need a ticket. More information available HERE
Sound Opinions Live: Antibalas
Sit in on a LIVE taping of Sound Opinions! For the next edition of Sound Opinions LIVE, Jim and Greg talk with Antibalas.
Be there for the conversation and to hear Antibalas play tracks from their new album.
It takes place Friday, September 29 at Thalia Hall in Chicago.
The event is FREE but you need a ticket. More information available HERE
Sound Opinions Live: Ted Leo
Get a peek behind the curtain of a Sound Opinions taping. Join Jim and Greg for another Sound Opinions LIVE!
They'll be joined by special guest Ted Leo, Friday September 22 at the Goose Island Taproom in Chicago.
It is FREE but you need a ticket. More information is available HERE.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: The Five Heartbeats
Join Sound Opinions hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for an evening under the stars as they co-present with the Millennium Park Summer Film Series a musical story of the rise and fall of an African American vocal group, The Five Heartbeats. This Sound Opinions at the Movies
About the Film:
In the early 1960’s, a quintet of hopeful young African American men form an amateur vocal group called The Five Heartbeats. After an initially rocky start, the group improve, turn pro, and rise to become a top flight music sensation. Along the way however, the guys learn many hard lessons about the reality of the music industry with its casual racism and greed while the personal weaknesses of the members threaten to destroy the integrity of the band.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Wayne’s World
Sound Opinions at the Movies isn't worthy! But join us anyway as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Wayne’s World. Staring Dana Carvey and Mike Myers, this spin-off of an SNL skit about an Aurora-based public access cable show was a surprise hit in 1992.
See Jim and Greg introduce a special screening of Wayne’s World on Wednesday, May 10 at 7:00 p.m. at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago. Please, try not to hurl.
1984 – the year Big Brother was watching...and listening!
Both Rolling Stone and Billboard magazines have proclaimed 1984 as "pop music's best year ever!" But is it? Jim & Greg examine the year-in-music for 1984 and its lasting impact on Friday, April at 7 p.m. at the Lake Forest High School Auditorium in Lake Forest, IL. Register online or call 847-234-5253. Sponsored by the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Historical Society.
Some People Say That I Am a Poet
Jim & Greg discuss Bob Dylan's work, and his impact on the world of both music and literature, at the Metropolois Performing Arts Centre in downtown Arlington Heights, IL. This event begins at 7:30 p.m. Registration is required beginning on March 1, online or by phone at 847.392.0100.
Eat to the Beat
Eat to the Beat - where music and food collide!
Join Jim & Greg to celebrate the revolutionary power of rock ‘n roll with a 6 course menu prepared by some of Chicago’s top chefs including Ashlee Aubin of Salero, Abe Conlon of Fat Rice, Nicole Pederson of Found and Mike Sheerin of Rockit.
Enjoy plates inspired by each chef’s favorite revolutionary anthem. Each dish will showcase that food — like music — has the power to break down barriers and change norms.
Tickets available now!
Sound Opinions at the Movies: McCabe & Mrs. Miller
Sound Opinions at the Movies pays tribute to the late great singer/songwriter Leonard Cohen with a screening of the 1971 Western
See Jim and Greg introduce a special screening of McCabe & Mrs. Miller on Wednesday, January 18 at 7:00 p.m. at the Music Box Theatre.
Jim & Greg on Punk Rock 1977— The Sound of Genius in Arlington Heights, IL
In a program specially developed for the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, Jim and Greg will discuss 1977, the year punk music emerged from London and New York. Punk rock, which has proven influential on everything that's followed, erupted in those two cities out of an uneasy stew of economic inequality, racial tensions, budding anger, and a sense that we all had "no future" -- a time, in other words, not unlike today. The program will be at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre. The event begins at 7:00. For more information visit the Arlington Heights Memorial Library website.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: A Mighty Wind
Sound Opinions at the Movies is back with a screening of Christopher Guest's folk mockumentary A Mighty Wind. The hilarious yet touching film reunites the cast of This Is Spinal Tap along with a brilliant ensemble of improvisers including Jane Lynch, Parker Posey, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara.
See Jim and Greg introduce a special screening of A Mighty Wind on Wednesday, October 5 at 7:00 p.m. at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago.
Jim & Greg on The Future of Music in Northbrook, IL
Discover the latest trends in the music industry as Jim & Greg share their insights on this ever-changing topic at the Northbrook Public Library in Northbrook, IL. Now that fans are tastemakers, music distributors, and even collaborators, what does that mean for the artists? This event is free and begins at 7 p.m. For more information, visit the Northbrook Public Library website.
Jim & Greg at Tall Tales Festival with Cory Chisel
What happens when a gifted songwriter and performer throws conventional music industry wisdom out the window? Join Jim and Greg on Saturday, August 13 from noon-1:30 pm, as they moderate a discussion with Grammy Award nominee Cory Chisel on how he's finding success in the music industry by ignoring all the rules.
This event is FREE and open to the public. It will be held at Tall Tales Music Festival, located at 492 N. Pine Street, Burlington, WI. Click here for additional festival information.
Sound Opinions Summer BBQ 2016
Join Jim & Greg for our annual Sound Opinions BBQ
on August 10 on WBEZ's beautiful terrace at Navy Pier overlooking Lake Michigan. Enjoy food by The Butcher and Larder, Bang Bang Pie Shop, Black Dog Gelato, Kuma's Corner, and Honey Butter Fried Chicken & drinks by Virtue Cider, Goose Island Beer, Koval Distillery, and Dark Matter Coffee. Vegetarian options will be available. Then, stay for a front row seat for the Navy Pier Fireworks starting at 9:30 p.m. It all starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40, and all proceeds go to benefit Sound Opinions and Chicago Public Media.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: The Harder They Come
Sound Opinions at the Movies is back with a screening of the classic 1972 Jamaican crime flick The Harder They Come. It's the movie that introduced reggae to the rest of the world, with a killer soundtrack featuring Desmond Dekker, Toots & the Maytals, and the film's star (and former Sound Opinions guest) Jimmy Cliff.
See Jim and Greg introduce a special screening of The Harder They Come on Wednesday, June 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the Music Box Theatre.
Sound Opinions Live: Mudhoney in Seattle
It's what you love about the radio show and podcast, but up close and in-person: Music news, conversation, debate and a special live interview and performance with Seattle
Special thanks to KUOW, STG and Goose Island Beer.
Sound Opinions Live: Courtney Barnett
Yes, you can peek behind the curtain at a Sound Opinions taping! Join Jim & Greg for another Sound Opinions Live!
This time we're featuring an interview and performance from Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett. It's on Thursday, April 28 at the Goose Island Taproom in Chicago. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. and the recording runs until 4 p.m.
It's FREE! Claim your tickets before they’re gone.
Jim & Greg at Northwestern with Mary Lambert
Want to know more about how composers and lyricists write some of your favorite songs? Join Jim and Greg Tuesday, April 26 from 7 - 8:30 p.m. as they moderate a discussion on the art of songwriting with Grammy nominee Mary Lambert. Lambert will also be doing a special live performance.
This event is FREE and open to the public. It will be held at Northwestern University in Lutkin Memorial Hall, 700 University Place on the Evanston Campus.
Sound Opinions Live: Buried Treasures
Want to be a part of a Sound Opinions taping? Join us at Lincoln Hall on Wednesday, April 13 for another edition of Sound Opinions Live! Sponsored by Goose Island, this one-night only event is one you won't want to miss. Jim and Greg will share some unearthed musical gems in their Buried Treasures segment. These picks aren't featured on any tired top 10 lists, but will be sure to enhance any playlist.
For tickets, visit here:
http://sndo.ps/22mLp0V
Sound Opinions Live: Eleanor Friedberger at SXSW
Jim and Greg are once again heading to Austin, Texas for the SXSW Music Conference, and this year they're taking the show with them.
Join Sound Opinions for a live taping with singer/songwriter Eleanor Friedberger on Wednesday, March 16 at the Gibson Brands Showroom in Austin. Doors open at 2:30 p.m., and the interview and performance begin at 3 p.m.
Tickets are free, but you have to reserve in advance. So claim your spot now!
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Trainspotting
Sound Opinions at the Movies returns with a special 20th anniversary screening of Danny Boyle’s 1996 black comedy Trainspotting, adapted from the fantastic novel by Irvine Welsh. Not only will viewers be treated to a killer soundtrack and wonderful performances, but also we'll be joined that evening by special guest Irvine Welsh himself!
See Jim, Greg, and Irvine Welsh introduce a special screening of Trainspotting on Wednesday, February 17 at 7:15 p.m. at the Music Box Theatre.
Sound Opinions Live: Los Lobos
Here's your chance to see how radio gets made-- give or take a few hundred fans, great Goose Island Beer and a kick-ass venue.
Join Jim & Greg for a live recording with Los Lobos on Tuesday December 15th at City Winery in Chicago. Doors open at 12 p.m., and the tape starts to roll at 1.
It's FREE! So get your tickets before they’re gone!
Eat to the Beat: An Evening with Neko Case
Guess who's coming to dinner? That's right...the one and only Neko Case!
Join Jim, Greg, and Neko for a spectacular dining event on Friday December 11th at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel in Chicago. It's a feast for the ears and belly.
Mindy Segal, Matthias Merges, Iliana Regan and more of the finest chefs in the city will be preparing courses they conceived to pair specially with Neko's gorgeous music. Plus, purchase passes to enjoy drinks with Neko that have been prepared by acclaimed mixologist Paul McGee. It all goes to benefit Sound Opinions.
Hope you'll join us! Tickets and more info.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Nashville
Time to seek our fortune down in Music City. We're celebrating the 40th anniversary of Nashville, the satirical masterpiece from American icon Robert Altman.
Join Jim and Greg on Wednesday, November 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Music Box Theatre as they introduce a special screening of what Pauline Kael called "the funniest epic vision of America ever to reach the screen."
Music University in Des Moines, IA
Come see Jim and Greg speak at the Music University (MU) Conference and Showcase in Des Moines, IA on Saturday, October 17. MU is a gathering designed to help inspire and enable independent musicians to succeed while working and living in the Midwest. To register or get more information, visit music-university.org.
Sound Opinions Summer BBQ 2015
What better way to celebrate Sound Opinions and the Summer season than with a BBQ on our beautiful terrace at WBEZ's Studios on Navy Pier? Enjoy food by The Butcher and Larder, Honey Butter Fried Chicken, La Sirena Clandestina, Pork Shoppe, Kuma’s Corner, Bang Bang Pie Shop, Black Dog Gelato, & Stan’s Donuts and drinks by Goose Island, Virtue Cider, Dark Matter Coffee, Few Spirits, & Koval Distillery. Then stay for a front row seat for the spectacular Navy Pier
Almost Famous in Millennium Park
Our Sound Opinions at the Movies series returns to the biggest venue in the city this summer with a FREE public screening of Cameron Crowe's Almost Famous at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Chicago's Millennium Park.
Whether you want to declare yourself a golden god from the pavilion seats or from a spot on the lawn, there's a free seat waiting for you. The film begins at 6:30 p.m.
Sound Opinions Live: Wire
Sound Opinions & The Billions Corporation have teamed up to bring you a live taping of the show with art-punk pioneers Wire. Join Jim DeRogatis, Greg Kot, and Wire for a FREE interview and performance that will be broadcast on a future episode of Sound Opinions. It's on Saturday, June 13 at the Goose Island Barrel House in Chicago. The recording will run from approximately 12:45 - 2:00 p.m. Please be there promptly at 12:15 p.m. to check in. You must be 21+ to reserve your spot and IDs will be checked at the door. Limit 2 tickets per person & your guest must be with you at check-in.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: The Breakfast Club
Raise your fist in the air – it's time to celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Breakfast Club from beloved writer/director John Hughes.
Join our own Brat Pack of Jim and Greg on Wednesday, April 22nd at 7:30 p.m. at the Music Box Theatre as they channel their inner teens and rock out to the classic New Wave soundtrack.
Seymour Stein at the Lake FX Summit + Expo
Join Greg Kot as he interviews Seymour Stein at 10:30 a.m. on Friday April 17th at the Hard Rock Hotel in Chicago. He'll talk to the Sire Records co-founder and Warner Bros. Records VP about his long career as a hitmaker, working with Madonna, The Ramones, Talking Heads, The Smiths, The Cure and many others. This event is FREE!
The City of Chicago's Lake FX Summit + Expo presented by Google, April 16-19, 2015, is the Midwest region's largest free conference for artists, creative professionals and entrepreneurs.
Pre-registration for the summit is not required but encouraged. More info here
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Sid and Nancy
A movie for all you lovers and haters alike....the ultimate anti-Valentine’s Day flick about the ultimate anti-Romeo and Juliet: Sid and Nancy.
Join our own special duo, Jim and Greg, for this punk
Sound Opinions at the Movies: The Wall
Some movies should never, ever be seen on a small screen (Or, heaven forbid, a cellphone!) And Pink Floyd's sensory assault The Wall is one of them.
Join Jim and Greg on Monday November 10th at 7:30 p.m. as we do this unforgettable film justice on the big screen at The Music Box Theatre.
Celebrate 35 years of The Wall and Get your tickets now!
Beatles Vs. Stones
Join Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot of Sound Opinions for a great debate: The Beatles Vs. The Rolling Stones. It has now been 50 years since they first hit the world stage, and the Beatles and the Stones continue to bring people together—and tear them apart. This is one debate you won't want to miss as.
A special book signing will be held at the close of the program so audience members can secure the perfect holiday gift for their favorite Beatles or Stones fan!
The Summer Music Film Festival
For the 4th year Sound Opinions and the Music Box Theatre will co-present a festival featuring a unique selection of fantastic music films from August 15th through August 19th.
Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot will kick it all off with an opening night 30th Anniversary presentation of Stop Making Sense. Get up on your feet and dance to Jonathan Demme's footage of the Talking Heads.
Then come back for more great music movies featuring John C. Reilly, Yoko Ono and Prince in Purple Rain.
Sound Opinions Summer BBQ 2014
What better way to celebrate Sound Opinions and the Summer season than with a BBQ on our beautiful terrace at WBEZ's Studios on Navy Pier? Enjoy Food by Kuma’s Corner, Hoosier Mama Pie Company, Parsons Chicken & Fish, Leghorn Chicken, Butcher & Larder, & Black Dog Gelato and Drinks by Goose Island, Virtue Cider, Candid Wines & Intelligentsia. Plus, get Tours of the station and watch the spectacular Navy Pier
Eat to the Beat
Join Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot of Sound Opinions for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Chefs Paul Kahan of Nico Osteria, Blackbird, and the Publican, and Matthias Merges of Yusho, Billy Sunday and A10 present a spectacular multi-course dinner inspired by the groundbreaking 1967 album The Velvet Underground & Nico - with special guest Velvet Underground founder John Cale. Your donation includes courses expertly paired with wine and a Velvet Underground listening session and converstion.
20 (More) Albums
Jim and Greg present "20 (More) Albums You Really Need to Hear" on September 30th at 7:30 p.m. at Space in Evanston, IL.
They'll go beyond the usual suspects from the canon and introduce you to classic, influential albums that deserve more attention. Audience participation is encouraged!
Sound Opinions Live with Broken Bells
Hello Portland!
Sound Opinions and OPB have teamed up to bring you a live recording of the show.
Join Jim DeRogatis, Greg Kot & Broken Bells for a FREE interview and performance.
It's on Monday August 11th at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall in Portland.
Doors open at 4:00 p.m., and the event runs from approximately 4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Limit 2 tickets per person, & your guest must be with you at check-in.
Spinal Tap in Millennium Park
We turn our Sound Opinions at the Movies series up to 11 with a celebration of the 30th birthday of This Is Spinal Tap with a FREE public screening at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
As Greg says, "Spinal Tap is our number-one music movie, so we were really waiting for a biggest and best opportunity to show it...Spinal Tap knows where the fine line between clever and stupid actually is, which is why it's both the funniest and best rock movie ever made." Jim adds, "Spinal Tap is, quite simply, the best movie ever made about a rock band because, fictional or not, it absolutely is the truest.!"
The event is part of Millennium Park’s Summer Film Series, made possible by the Millennium Park Foundation and co-curated by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, with generous support from the Music Box Theatre.
Come see This is Spinal Tap, hosted by Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot, on Tuesday, July 29, at 6:30 p.m. in Chicago's Millennium Park at 201 E Randolph St. Turn it up to 11!
Sound Opinions Live with Jeff Tweedy
Join Jim and Greg for a live recording of Sound Opinions at Lincoln Hall in Chicago. Jim and Greg will interview Jeff Tweedy of Wilco, and he'll treat the audience to a performance with Spencer Tweedy on drums, Jim Elkington on guitar, Darin Gray on bass, and Liam Cunningham on keyboards. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the conversation starts at 6:30 pm. at Lincoln Hall. Get more info
Please note this event is 21+ and is SOLD OUT. But we are auctioning off 5 pairs of backstage tickets for a good cause. Click here to bid.
Sound Opinions Live in Philly
Join Jim and Greg for a live taping of Sound Opinions with Rosanne Cash at the WXPN Studios. They will talk with Rosanne about her longtime career and the Cash family legacy. Plus, she'll perform live.
Doors open at 3:15 pm then at 3:30 an interview with Rosanne Cash will be taped for a future Sound Opinions episode. Tickets are SOLD OUT.
Questions? Email interact@soundopinions.org
Greg Kot at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Greg will be doing a free reading and signing of his new book I’ll Take You There: Mavis Staples, the Staple Singers, and the March Up Freedom’s Highway. on May 3rd at 1 p.m. at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Almost Famous
On Wednesday April 23rd, join Jim and Greg for a special screening of Almost Famous at the Music Box Theatre.
Jim and Greg will talk about Cameron Crowe's love letter to musical discovery with a note-perfect soundtrack. Plus, Jim will share his memories of the late actor Phillip Seymour Hoffman and the late critic Lester Bangs. And you'll be able to enjoy Goose Island beer while listening to audio of a young Jim DeRogatis speaking with his hero, Lester Bangs.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the chat & screening will start at 7:30. Special thanks to Basecamp. Get advance tickets at a discount
Everything You Need to Know...
Jim and Greg present "Everything You Need to Know About the Music Industry in 2014" on April 5th at 11 a.m. at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago.
This half-day rock-n-roll boot camp will give attendees the top 10 things they need to know to take their bands from the basement to the stage.
I’ll Take You There
Join Greg Kot for a signing of his new book I’ll Take You There: Mavis Staples, the Staple Singers, and the March Up Freedom’s Highway. on March 1 from 2 - 5 p.m. at the landmark Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis, TN.
Plus check out these other events and updates
- Jan. 24, 7 p.m. at Anderson’s Bookshop, Naperville, IL
- Jan. 27, 7 p.m. at Boswell Books in Milwaukee
- Jan. 31, 7 p.m. the Book Stall in Winnetka, IL
- Feb. 3, 7 p.m. at St. Louis County Library in St. Louis, MO.
- Feb. 7, 6:30 p.m. at City Lit Books in Chicago with broadcasting legend Richard Steele
20 Albums
Jim and Greg present "20 Albums You Haven't Heard That You Need to Know About" on February 19th at 8 p.m. at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago.
They'll go beyond the usual suspects from the canon and introduce you to classic, influential albums that deserve more attention. Audience participation is encouraged!
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Diner
Join Jim and Greg for a special screening of Barry Levinson's Diner on Wednesday January 22nd at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago.
They'll talk about the great '60s soundtrack and invite WBEZ's "Chewing the Fat", to share Chicago's best diners.
WHYY Member Meetup
On Friday November 22nd from 5 - 7 pm, join your fellow music fans and WHYY listeners at National Mechanics in Philadelphia for a Desert Island Jukebox happy hour. It's FREE!
Goose Island Beer will provide the drinks, and Sound Opinions will provide the soundtrack. But we need your help! What song says "Philly" to you? It can be from your fair city or about it. We want to add it to the Philadelphia Desert Island Jukebox. First register here for this free event. Then share your pick at <interact@soundopinions.org>. WHYY will play your tracks on the 22nd, and Jim and Greg will pick the best to win prizes.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: High Fidelity
On Thursday October 24th, join Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a special screening of High Fidelity at the Music Box Theatre. Jim and Greg will talk about the Chicago-set film and the local music scene that inspired it.
Beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Music Box lobby, listeners are invited to have their own record store experience with a listening station provided by Grain Audio and album selections hand-picked by Laurie’s Planet of Sound, Dave’s Records and Dusty Groove. The movie starts at 7:30.
Buy tickets now!
KUT Desert Island Jukebox Member Meet-Up
On Friday November 1st at 6 pm, join your fellow music fans and KUTX listeners at the Cactus Cafe for a Desert Island Jukebox Happy Hour. It's FREE! KUTX's own Matt Reilly will host, Goose Island Beer will provide the drinks, and Sound Opinions will provide the soundtrack – with a little help from our listeners in Austin and beyond!
What is your favorite Texas-themed track? What are the best songs about Texas? Or the best songs by Texas artists? Register for this free event below. Then share your pick at interact@soundopinions.org.
Jim and Greg will handpick the best to play on November 1st. And you’ll be eligible to win Sound Opinions prizes.