Fans of All Natural, Inc. might think the Blackstone Theatre Collective (BSTC) a little out of place among the label's artists. But All Natural has always been an advocate for good music of all kinds (thanks to Tone B. Nimble's various residencies), especially when it comes from artists with a local base. The BSTC fits right in with those criteria.
The collective's name pays homage to the BlackStone Theatre, a venue that held some of Chicago's most memorable house parties. These parties helped influence a generation of music lovers, and would forever change the lives of BSTC members Keanna Johnson, Andy C, Tunji and Zzaje. All have been influenced by the sounds of funk, soul, hip-hop and disco, and they meld everything into a performance that will take the audience through their musical diaries.
You don't have try very hard to be impressed with BSTC's musical resume. Andy C has produced for some legendary artists, including Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Raekwon and the Temptations. Keanna Johnson has sung backup for R. Kelly, Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Common and many more. Keanna first got her start in Black Church congregations on the South Side of Chicago, and after earning her business degree from Florida A&M, she was discovered at an open mic in NY by singer Kelly Price. Tunji and Zzaje are both musical chameleons; specializing in guitar, saxophone, flute and piccolo.
Together, BSTC has added another dimension to the evolving nightlife here in Chicago. A BSTC performance blends the best of both the club scene and music scene together into one package. The group has the energy and passion that makes it an instant hit with whoever is lucky enough to catch a performance.
For more information, visit their website: http://www.allnaturalhiphop.com
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