Blues Star Susan Tedeschi to Headline Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago

Runners and blues enthusiasts alike will be treated to a free concert in Grant Park with Multi-Grammy® Nominee Susan Tedeschi, who is set to headline the 2009 Rock n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon on Sunday, August 2, 2009 at 10:30 am.

Tedeschi’s knack for musical truth-telling has been apparent in the years since she first captured the public’s musical imagination. Growing up in the Boston suburb of Norwell, Massachusetts, she began singing with local bands at the age of 13, and subsequently pursued her passion for music while studying at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. She recently released a new album, Back to the River.

“I worked really hard on this one,” she states. “I’ve enjoyed writing with so many different songwriters and loved working together with musicians to get across my ideas and visions. I’m really excited about this record, and I’m anxious to have people hear it. People have been waiting for new music from me for awhile, so I look forward to touring, to bring these songs to as many people as I can.”

After establishing herself as one of New England’s top-drawing live acts, and making her recording debut with her embryonic 1995 album Better Days, Tedeschi achieved an impressive musical and commercial breakthrough with her 1998 indie release Just Won’t Burn. Later, Tedeschi received a Grammy® nomination for Best New Artist, alongside such unlikely company as Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Macy Gray and Kid Rock.

This is the first year for the Rock n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon and Tedeschi will take the stage at the finish line party in Grant Park, which will host various booths, displays and festivities for all to enjoy.

Runners will be listening to various tunes spanning the musical spectrum from big band to soul, country to R&B, the classic rock to jazz from the 21 local bands, cheer teams and themed water stations throughout the course, which will highlight some of the city’s most notable landmarks.