IMAGES OF WILL JACOBS AND DIRTY DEAL BY KURT SWANSON AND SOULFUL IMPRESSIONS
E-MAIL: kurtswanson@juno.com
For sixteen months the band has existed with a level of discipline and professionalism unheard of for an act that has NO MEMBERS OVER THE AGE OF 18! As much as our sound has evolved, a dedication to blues music and a commitment to spread the message of the blues to a new generation has remained unhindered by fads, trends, and a music scene all but ready to abandon this city’s tradition as the home of the blues. Everywhere from the Clearwater Theatre in West Dundee, to Reggie’s Rock Club in the south loop to Buddy Guys Legends, Will Jacobs & Dirty Deal has surpassed expectations of what an under-eighteen band can be. More importantly, we’ve shown time and time again that the modern Chicago music circuit cannot underestimate the relevancy of its oldest musical tradition. Since last August, the band has seen headlining spots at Chicago’s Bottom Lounge and Bill's Blues and has even seen a residency at the city’s Elbo Room.
These guys may be young, but have a tremendous passion for the blues. While being influenced by great legends such as Stevie Ray, Jimi Hendrix & BB King, their sound is strictly original and has gained lots of attention from the Chicago Blues music scene. Their goal as a band is to bring back blues to the next generation and to get everyone of all ages into the blues. Based out of the north suburbs of Chicago, Dirty Deal has performed and headlined endless venues around the windy city, bringing their unique sound of blues, rock, funk, and jazz. They have also performed at the River City Blues Festival in Marietta, OH. Front-man, Will Jacobs, has shared the stage with many Chicago blues acts including Louis Zagoras, Two For The Blues, Little Ed & The Imperials, Chris Forte, and Sammy Fender.