Al “Hurricane” Spears – Guitarist ( Band Leader )

In the rich tapestry of Chicago’s blues history, there are few names as synonymous with the genre as Al “Hurricane” Spears. Born and raised on the westside of Chicago, Hurricane has dedicated his life to keeping the blues alive through his remarkable talent and tireless efforts. As a skilled guitarist and passionate performer, he has graced some of the most iconic Blues venues in Chicago, including Buddy Guy’s Legends, the House of Blues, Kingston Mines, and Rosa’s Lounge. For Hurricane, the blues is more than just music—it’s a way of life. His deep-rooted connection to the genre can be traced back to his early childhood when he would listen to old 78s, absorbing the raw emotions and soulful melodies that defined the blues. It was in the early 90s that he first picked up a guitar and discovered his true calling. From that moment on, Hurricane never stopped playing, honing his skills and developing a unique style that blends elements of jazz and blues with an edgy twist. While working a full-time job, Hurricane found solice and inspiration in the local blues scene. He began participating in blues jams at Carter’s Place in Lockport and the Harlem Avenue Lounge in Berwyn, immersing himself in the vibrant community of musicians who shared his passion. These experiences fueled his determination to bring the blues to the forefront, and Hurricane took it upon himself to organize and operate three of the longest-running blues jams in the western suburbs. Al Hurricane has shared the stage alongside Toronzo Cannon, Lurrie Bell, Mike Wheeler, Billy Branch, Johnnie Drummer, Aron Burton, Jimmy Dawkins, and the father-son combo of Lonnie and Ronnie Baker-Brooks, Lindsey Alexander and Lucky Peterson. These collaborations not only enriched Hurricane’s musical journey but also cemented his status as an esteemed member of Chicago’s blues community. Hurricane wants to give special thanks to his wonderful wife Donna, Michael Wheeler, Toronzo Cannon, Chico Banks (RIP), Twist Ferguson (RIP), Dave Riley, Lindsey Alexander, Rico McFarland, Billy Branch, Carl Weathersby, Carlos Johnson, Vino Loudon, Third Coast Guitars, Glen Gerini, Music Solutions, Doug Horan, Jeff Ruffin, Gibson Custom Guitars, Herman Hines original vocalist and Jeff Ruffin the original drummer for THP may you both rest in peace, and hosts of friends who helped make our music possible.

Tony ” Mississippi Sax ” Medina – Harmonica & Vocals

Tony’s passion for the blues started early on, enjoying the instrumental sounds of the bass guitar and saxophone. At the age of 15 Tony began working his first job as a bagger at a local grocery store, and with his first pay check he bought his 1st harmonica. Tony then met Mr. Renfro Wallace jr. while bagging groceries and they quickly became friends. Mr. Wallace proceeded to teach Tony the fundamentals of playing the harmonica and he quickly developed a passion for blues music. Shortly after that he met Terry “Pops” Williams who was a multi-talented instrumentalist and was introduced to Everett ( Uncle Skeez ) Williams who helped Tony expand his skills and introduced to the blues scene. Tony’s inspiration comes from listening to Sonny Boy Williamson, Lil Walter, Billy Branch, Rod Piazza amongst many others. Tony fronted two bands shortly thereafter with the 4th Street Blues Band and Maxwell Mojo as well as being a side man in other bands and is currently one of the original members of The Hurricane Project. Tony has shared the stage with Clement Brashir, Doug Lee, Mike Wheeler, Toronzo Cannon, L.V. Banks, Twist and The Groove Machine, J.B. Ritchie, Billy Branch and many others over the years.

Alfred Shorter Jr. -Bassist

Alfred has 56 years of musical experience and is proficient in playing multiple instruments. He was introduced to music the age of 6 by his late father the late ALFRED SHORTER Sr. who was an accomplished piano, guitar, bass player. Al has shared the stage with the following solo recording artist and bands. BOS ( brothers of sound jazz band), Mixx Company Band, Dave Weld & The imperial Flames, Chicago Blue Dadds, Twist & the Groove Machine, Planet Band, AL Rowe, Pistol Pete, Carlos Johnson, Vance Kelly, Lindsey Alexander,  Donald Kinsey ( Kinsey report) The Mike Wheeler Band, Freed Haque ( 2010 top 10 fusion jazz fusion guitarist in the world) Ari brown (internationally acclaimed jazz saxophonist) Jodie Christian  (internationally known and local Chicago native jazz pianist and composer) Ray, Goodman & Brown ( legendary R&B ballad group formerly known as the Moments). Alfred Shorter Jr has also recorded his own solo project, Self produced CD “Just Between Friends”. Now available on all streaming platforms, and currently providing bass and piano lessons.

Kevin “Kalbo” Ruth -Drummer