One of the most enduring groups in Chicagoland Rock and Roll History returns to the Acorn Theatre in Three Oaks April 22. The Ides of March, featuring lead singer Jim Peterik, trace their Windy City roots back to 1964—and they are still going strong, entertaining audiences around the nation, but especially in the Chicago musical sphere.
Defying the odds, the four original members, Jim Peterik-Guitar, Larry Millas-Guitar, Bob Bergland-Bass, and Mike Borch-Drums have remained together, weaving their way through the shifts in popular music, and always rising to action in creating a show that remains at the peak of entertainment. The original members are joined by Scott May-Keyboards, Tim BalesTrumpet, Henry Salgado-Trombone, and Steve Eisen-Saxophone.
Their show has become a cornucopia of platinum hits, starting with the Ides’ own immortal “Vehicle.” Upon its release in April of 1970, the brass-driven tale of the “friendly stranger in the black sedan” became Warner Brother’s fastest selling single of all time, and to this very moment is played daily on radio stations throughout the world. It has become one of those rare musical chestnuts that no matter how many times you hear it, one never tires in the listening.
In contrast to “Vehicle’s” power, lies the lush vocal harmonies of the Ides’ “L.A. Goodbye,” the centerpiece of the unplugged mini-set inside each Ides Of March concert. Their 1965 debut single “You Wouldn’t Listen” harkens back to the British invasion of the time. It is astounding to hear the band so nimbly returning to its roots, summoning the voices of their youth.
Jim Peterik’s songs have garnered 18 top 10 Billboard spots and have sold over 30 million copies, earning him a Grammy, People’s Choice award, an Oscar nomination, and multiple Gold and Platinum RIAA commendations. These songs are among everyone’s favorites, and are all instantly recognizable.
His collaborations with “.38 Special,” “Caught Up In You,” “Hold On Loosely,” and “Rockin’ Into The Night” vaulted to the top of the charts. These songs have transcended genres over the years, becoming anthems of Southern Rock, and appealing throughout the ages from Baby Boomers to Millennials.
Formerly of “Survivor,” Peterik co-wrote all their smash hits such as “The Search Is Over,” “Is This Love,” “High On You,” and “I Can’t Hold Back;”. And he co-wrote “The Eye Of The Tiger,” one of the most popular songs of all time.
All of these songs and more are featured in the Ides Of March set, making it a non-stop juggernaut of everyone’s favorite tunes, a tour of the American Music Songbook touching on multiple genres, ringing memories as only hit songs can. Led by Jim (with his trademark purple hair), The Ides’ energetic stage presence and unmistakable charisma draws audiences in. Chicago’s very own “THE IDES OF MARCH,” for over 50 years an irresistible favorite, bring their special blend of Midwest Pop/Rock to the intimate Acorn Stage, Saturday April 22.
The Details
The Acorn
107 Generations Drive, Three Oaks
The Ides Of March Featuring Jim Peterik
Saturday, April 22, 2023 8pm
Doors open at 7pm
Tickets available at acornlive.org
General Admission $40 Advance | $45 Day of Show
Reserved Seating Available $65 Advance | $70 Day of Show
