With “The Dutchman” and other widely recorded songs, Michael Smith created emotional realities that let you feel along with his characters.
Tag: Steve Martin
Bright Star will try the patience of even the most tenderhearted romantic
Grief and villainy are no match for optimism, dumb luck, and a banjo.
If you don’t know Megon McDonough, blame the maleness of Chicago’s 70s folk scene
Folk singer Megon McDonough made her 1972 debut LP while still in high school and in 1990 joined Christine Lavin’s Four Bitchin’ Babes.
Stop complaining about Chicago’s weather
We get to experience the entire meteorological buffet—without the gristle of natural disasters.
Found Footage Festival, Chicago Marathon, Music Box of Horrors, and more of the best things to do in Chicago this weekend
Steve Martin and Martin Short at the Chicago Theatre, and more happenings from October 6-8
Brando is back, plus more new reviews and notable screenings
New reviews and notable screenings in this week’s issue
Show us your . . . walls of autographs
After Chicago Theatre shows end, the performers’ John Hancocks remain backstage.
What’s so funny, David Misch?
In Funny: The Book, longtime comedy writer and stand-up David Misch explains his craft.
Just for Laughs: a comic infestation hits Chicago.
Back for its third year, Just for Laughs brings about 130 comedians to 13 Chicago-area venues. Here are some good bets: A scientist wants empirical proof that her boyfriend is the one in Losing Control, a new movie by Valerie Weiss, screening as part of the JFL Films series (Tue 6/14, 7:45 PM, Gene Siskel […]
Early Warnings Roundup
This week’s Early Warnings include Atari Teenage Riot, Katatonia, Ty Segall, Steve Martin, Matmos, Pentagram, Phosphorescent, Slum Village, and Swans.
Steve Martin: Play “Ramblin’ Man”!
Once you’ve made the banjo a part of the world’s greatest comedy act, it’s tough to sell yourself as just another musician.