Free Blues Friday Presents: Denise La Grassa Band

Date: Friday, February 23, 2024

Doors: 5PM for Golden Hour

Showtime: 7:30PM

Free admission! RSVP BELOW

About: 

DENISE LA GRASSA stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance and creativity. As a singer-songwriter, she's carved a niche in Chicago’s vibrant music scene with her rootsy style, a harmonious blend of rock, blues, soul, and gospel. Her sophisticated yet irresistibly melodic songwriting is again prominently displayed on her latest album, "The Flame," which is gaining radio airplay in the United States as well as Canada and Europe.

North of 40: The Turning Point

The winds of change blew through Denise's life in May of 2022 when Lincoln College, where she led the reimagining of the music program, closed its doors permanently. But instead of returning to academia, she fearlessly resolved at this late stage to dedicate her life full-time to songwriting and performance. This was the beginning of what she dubbed her "North of 40" journey, asking the world “Can a woman … say ‘North of 40,’ follow her dream of returning to Europe to play with her new band and new bluesy sound?”

Early Daredevil Days

Denise's fearlessness and creative expression revealed itself early. It was elementary school in suburban Chicago where she would write poems, put them to music, then knock on neighborhood doors to perform and ultimately try to sell her latest creations to her neighbors. That fearlessness carried itself through her teen years, where she responded to a competition notice and broke the world record for muscle grinds on a trapeze—an achievement that found its place in the hallowed pages of the Guinness Book of World Records.

This early courage and tenacity foreshadowed her future in performance. As a 20-something she would write and perform her own one-woman musical shows, one of which found an audience in Europe. She also landed a role in a made-for-HBO movie with Anthony Edwards, and stints on the popular TV series Unsolved Mysteries.

The Music that Speaks to the Soul and the Spirit

Denise's music is more than just melodies and lyrics; it's a bridge that often connects her faith with themes of justice, compassion, and human dignity. The rootsy sound that forms the background for these poems reflect her diverse musical influences - blues legends, rock icons, soulful crooners, jazz luminaries, and the deep resonance of gospel.

Golden Hour at Epiphany:

Stop by Epiphany for our live music series concerts, and be sure to hit Golden Hour before-hand for drinks and lite-bites! Doors open at 5pm Wednesday - Saturday for Golden Hour with 1/2 priced bottles of wine and other specials!

Come early to EXPLORE and DISCOVER your own EPIPHANY… our art galleries are open and there is free entertainment before the show!

Full Concert Calendar Here

Golden Hour Menu + Music Schedule

Please note that outside food or beverages are not permitted in the venue.