Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Vincent Neil Emerson performance

• Upcoming Chicago Fire FC home game

• A deep dive into the life of Muddy Waters

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will."

– Suzy Kassem

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the highest natural point in Chicago?

A) Blue Island

B) Mount Forest

C) Chicago Ridge

D) Hoosier Hill

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The notorious gangster that operated in Chicago during the Prohibition era was B) Al Capone.

News

💼 Business

A recent Grant Thornton LLP survey indicates a positive outlook among M&A professionals, expecting an uptick in deal volume. (Link)

A court decision allows former President Donald Trump to avoid immediate collection on a substantial civil fraud judgment against him, contingent on a $175M guarantee. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Ryan Poles discussed insights gained on quarterback Caleb Williams, hinting at the Bears' draft direction after their meeting. (Link)

Concerning the Chicago White Sox's potential move to Nashville, Jerry Reinsdorf refuted relocation rumors, highlighting complexities. (Link)

The Chicago Bears are set to welcome USC's Caleb Williams for a significant pre-draft evaluation, focusing on their quarterback strategy. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Zacks anticipates earnings surprises from companies including Nike, Lululemon, Carnival, and Walgreens in their latest earnings preview. (Link)

Following a recent rally, Wall Street experienced a slight downturn as the market awaits further signals from the Federal Reserve, and Boeing announces CEO's departure at year's end. (Link)

The Masterbatch Market is expected to grow from USD 12.9 billion in 2023 to USD 16.8 billion by 2028, marking a 5.4% CAGR. (Link)

Donald Trump's fortune is set to increase by $3 billion following investor approval to take Trump Media public, though it may not alleviate his financial pressures. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚽ Chicago Fire FC vs. Houston Dynamo FC
Soldier Field, Chicago
Saturday, Apr. 6th | 7:30 PM | More Info 

⚾ Chicago Cubs vs. Colorado Rockies
Wrigley Field, Chicago
Monday, April 1st, 2024 | 1:20 PM​ | More Info 

Music & Concerts

🎵 Action Bronson
Vic Theatre, Chicago
Thursday, 4 April | 8:00PM | More Info 

🎸 Vincent Neil Emerson
Carol's Pub, Chicago
Tuesday, April 2 | 7:00 PM | More Info 

🎶 One Hallelujah
Auditorium Theatre, Chicago, IL
Wednesday, Apr. 4th | More Info

🎵 Elle Varner
City Winery, Chicago, IL
Wednesday, Apr. 4th | More Info

🎤 Erika de Casier
2424 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL
Tuesday, Apr. 3rd | More Info 

Family

🎪 Tinley Park Brew & Vine Fest
The Odyssey Tinley Park
Friday, April 5th - Saturday, April 6th, 2024 | 7:00 PM | More Info 

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Chicago where every building is a work of abstract art” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Chicago Historical Events

1929: St. Valentine's Day Massacre.

The St. Valentine's Day Massacre of 1929 is one of the most notorious events in Chicago's history, marking a dark chapter in the city's criminal underworld. On February 14, 1929, seven members of George "Bugs" Moran's North Side Gang were brutally gunned down in a garage on Chicago's North Side. The massacre was widely believed to have been orchestrated by Al Capone's South Side Gang, although no one was ever convicted for the crime. The event shocked the nation and brought national attention to the violence and lawlessness of Chicago's Prohibition-era gang wars.

The St. Valentine's Day Massacre had a lasting impact on Chicago, leading to increased public outcry for law enforcement to crack down on organized crime. The event also solidified Al Capone's reputation as a ruthless and powerful mob boss, further cementing his notoriety in American history. The massacre remains a significant part of Chicago's lore, serving as a reminder of the city's tumultuous past and the influence of organized crime during the Prohibition era.

Today, the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre is a popular tourist attraction in Chicago, drawing visitors who are intrigued by the city's criminal history. The event has been the subject of numerous books, films, and documentaries, ensuring that the story of the massacre continues to captivate audiences and serve as a cautionary tale of the consequences of unchecked criminal activity.

Famous People From Chicago

Muddy Waters (1913-1983)

Muddy Waters, born McKinley Morganfield in 1913, was an American blues musician who played a crucial role in shaping the sound of modern Chicago blues. His impact on American popular music and his influence on the Chicago blues scene are significant chapters in the history of music.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1913-1942)

Muddy Waters was born on April 4, 1913, near Clarksdale, Mississippi, and grew up on the Stovall Plantation. Despite the poverty of his surroundings, Waters found solace in music and taught himself how to play the guitar and harmonica. His early exposure to the blues and the rich musical heritage of the Mississippi Delta laid the foundation for his future career as a blues musician.

Move to Chicago and Musical Career (1943-1950)

In 1943, Muddy Waters headed to Chicago with the hope of becoming a full-time professional musician. Shortly after his move, Waters started playing the blues in the vibrant Chicago music scene. His performances introduced a new generation to Chicago blues and marked the beginning of his influential career as a blues musician.

Rise to Prominence and Chicago Blues Legacy (1951-1960)

During the 1950s, Muddy Waters' music gained widespread recognition, and he became known as the "Father of Modern Chicago Blues." His innovative style and electrifying performances captivated audiences, and his influence on the blues genre continued to grow. Waters' impact on the Chicago blues scene was profound, and his contributions to the evolution of blues music are celebrated to this day.

Musical Achievements and Legacy (1961-1983)

Throughout his career, Muddy Waters created a new musical genre known as Chicago Blues, which continues to resonate with modern audiences. His songs are often covered by contemporary artists, and his legacy as a pioneering figure in blues music endures. Waters' impact on American popular music and his influence on the Chicago blues scene have left an indelible mark on the history of music.

Connection to Chicago

Muddy Waters' move to Chicago in 1943 marked a pivotal moment in his career. The vibrant Chicago music scene provided the backdrop for his rise to prominence, and his contributions to the city's blues legacy are an integral part of his musical journey.

Key Achievements of Muddy Waters:

• Pioneered the Chicago Blues genre, shaping the sound of modern blues music.

• Introduced a new generation to Chicago blues through electrifying performances.

• Influenced countless contemporary artists and left a lasting legacy in the music industry.

• Remembered as the "Father of Modern Chicago Blues" and a pioneering figure in blues music.

Muddy Waters' story is one of overcoming adversity, achieving greatness in music, and leaving an enduring legacy in the world of blues. His impact on American popular music and his influence on the Chicago blues scene continue to inspire future generations.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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