Ever wondered how an unexpected live tryout in Boston could change the course of a music career? Join us as Johnny Iguana, the dynamic keyboardist from The Claudettes, recounts his serendipitous journey from playing in teenage blues bands to landing a gig with the legendary Junior Wells in 1994. Johnny shares his humorous stage name origin, the vibrant punk and blues blend in his music, and offers a candid reflection on the cultural adjustments of being a young man playing in Chicago blues bands.

Experience the emotional and creative complexities of Johnny's musical journey. We explore his passion for music and storytelling, from the inspiration behind songs like "Park Bench" to the thrill of reading audiences during live performances. Johnny also opens up about his role in creating music for the TV show "The Bear," discussing the collaborative process and technological advancements that have shaped his work. Dive into the intricacies of album production and the challenges of releasing music during the pandemic, featuring collaborations with Chicago legends and the excitement of seeing projects come to life.

Finally, Johnny reminisces about his 30 years in Chicago, reflecting on the city's evolving neighborhoods, iconic music venues, and his personal growth along the way. Learn about his favorite Chicago spots, the practicalities of band life, and the unexpected adventures, from laundry mishaps to humorous gig offers. Whether you're a music enthusiast or a fan of compelling life stories, this episode promises a rich tapestry of insights, anecdotes, and inspiration straight from the heart of a seasoned musician.

Connect with Karen and Andrew at Be Realty: Be Realty Group

Email the Show: karen.sandvoss@berealtygroup.com

Guest: Johnny Iguana of The Claudettes

Link: Johnny Igunana Chicago Spectacular
Link: Delmark Records
Link: Oh My God
Link: The Bear

What if your home once echoed with the chords of a musical legend? Join us as we welcome Jay Stanek, a high school history teacher from Evanston Township, who discovered that his house was a creative haven for the legendary songwriter John Prine. Jay shares captivating stories about how his home was a frequent stop for Prine and the previous owner, Dan Hogan, where they would not only play guitars but also work on cars. We delve into the fascinating history connected to John Prine's album "Pink Cadillac" and how it all ties back to the iconic Sun Studios on Union Avenue in Memphis.

Our conversation shifts gears to explore Chicago's illustrious music scene, with a special focus on the blues. We reminisce about Mike Bloomfield's influential role in Bob Dylan's electrifying shift and the unforgettable moments at the Newport Folk Festival. We also highlight Chicago's legendary venues such as the Aragon, the Riv, and the old Uptown Theater, sharing personal anecdotes that paint a vivid picture of the city's rich musical heritage. From memorable shows at the Double Door to reflections on musicians like Steve Goodman and Peter Gabriel, this episode is a nostalgic dive into Chicago's cultural landscape.

Balancing professional life with personal passions is no easy feat, and Jay provides an insightful look into this juggling act. We discuss the challenges of preventing burnout in teaching, the necessity of hobbies outside of work, and how incorporating music into education can be transformative. We also touch on local developments like the rebuilding of Northwestern's football stadium, the financial impact of the university's tax exemptions, and the evolving architecture of Chicago. Tune in for a rich blend of music, history, and personal stories that bring the interconnected world of Chicago's real estate and music scenes to life.

Connect with Karen and Andrew at Be Realty: Be Realty Group

Email the Show: karen.sandvoss@berealtygroup.com

Guest: Jay Stanek of Evanston Township High School

Link: Furious Frank
Link: John Prine - Pink Cadillac
Link: Double Door

When the worlds of real estate and heavy metal collide, you know you're in for an electrifying experience. That's precisely what happened when we sat down with Jenafur Schlangen, a music photography maven and journalist who just stepped into the realm of homeownership. Jennifer's tales from the pit, photographing metal legends and her journey navigating the choppy waters of buying a home in Chicago, are peppered with the kind of insights only a true industry insider can offer. Plus, she adds an unexpected twist with some shrimp trivia that's as quirky as it is delightful.

Strap yourself in for a rollercoaster ride through the thrills and spills of concert photography, where dodging 'mic mouth' is all in a day's work. I spill the secrets of capturing that perfect stage moment, from the technicalities of lighting to the adrenaline-fueled race against the three-song limit. The conversation hits a crescendo as we explore the raw power of live music and how it transcends the limits of our earbuds. Then, we pivot to the personal side of our lives, sharing the buzz of finding new properties and the charm of Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods.

Nostalgia is a powerful thing, and it takes center stage as we reminisce about the Loop's bygone happy hours and lost dining havens. We mourn the loss of Ropa Cabana and its gourmet hot dogs, and celebrate the lakeside jazz of my cousin Libby York, wishing for a chef to bring back the magic. Then, shifting back to the present, we reveal our passion projects, from eco-friendly beach inventions to the soothing sights of Lake Michigan, proving that whether it's through the lens of real estate or the rhythm of metal, life's melodies always find a way to surprise and delight us.

Connect with Karen and Andrew at Be Realty: Be Realty Group

Email the Show: karen.sandvoss@berealtygroup.com

Guest: Jenafur Shlangen, EcoBeachie

Link: Unrated Mag
Link: United Centre
Link: EcoBeachie on Instagram
Link: Xcom EcoBeachie
Link: The Kills
Link: Mudvayne
Link: Olivia Rodrigo Store
Link: Oceanique
Link: Waterfront Cafe