ALL SHOWS HOSTED BY MARIO SMITH

Chicago poet, educator, producer, and radio show host, Mario Smith has been performing in Chicago and across the country for over twenty years. He is the host of "News From the Service Entrance," currently in its 20th year on WLPN-LP in Chicago, and is a contributor to WBEZ (NPR) and Vocalo.org.

Established 1976, this 10-piece ensemble throws down with 4-part harmony, a full horn section, and percussion.

The first to coin the term “steppin'” almost 50 years ago in 1973, DJ Sam Chatman is respectfully known as the "Godfather of Steppin' Music."

LeftJones is a hip-hop band from Chicago's South Side, best known for providing platforms for emerging musicians to test new ideas and collaborate with a live band of professional musicians.

Ayana Contreras is a cultural historian, memory worker, radio DJ, music columnist, author, and archivist. She hosts the "Reclaimed Soul" program on WBEZ and Vocalo Radio Chicago.

Proximity features bassist Micah Collier and Electec exploring the sounds of house music, footwork, bebop, and soul.

Chicago native Scendsei combines his eclectic taste, turntablism skills, and smooth blending capabilities to consistently provide listeners with an unforgettable experience through his mixes with house and hip-hop to soul and R&B.