Like free music? Of course you do.

Well then, you’ll probably be excited to learn that the Chicago, alt-country focused imprint, Bloodshot Records, has released a Valentine’s Day sampler, titled Lonely Hearts Valentine’s Day Sampler, as a free download.

The sampler finds many Bloodshot Records’ artists performing songs about, what else, love, and features Chicago’s own Robbie Fulks, who can be caught every Monday at the Hideout, Texas’ Old 97s, Missouri’s Ha Ha Tonka and more.

Download Bloodshot Records’ Lonely Hearts Valentine’s Day Sampler for free at Amazon.com right now.

By Richard Giraldi  \  comments

Chicago’s musical non-profit Rock for Kids will hold its 22nd annual “Rock & Roll Benefit Auction” this Friday, December 3, at Park West. The event will feature live and silent auctions chock full of rare items donated by musicians and celebrities.

Some of those contributing signed items and VIP packages to concerts and events include: Pavement, Wilco, Lady Gaga, Social Distortion, Phoenix, Iron and Wine, PJ Harvey, Alice in Chains, The Dead Weather and even President Barack Obama.

Supporters can see a full list of contributors here and take the opportunity to bid online for items. Auction-goers will not only get a chance for some sweet swag, but also refresh themselves with champagne and buffet treats before enjoying a live set by Robbie Fulks.

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By Britni Day  \  comments

Chicago’s Second City has announced the initial lineup for their 24-hour marathon, fundraiser, titled “Letters To Santa”, which features musicians, current Second City cast members and talented alumni.

The 2010 event is set for Tuesday, December 14, at 7:00 p.m. and runs until Wednesday, December 14, at 7:00 p.m. The initial musical lineup includes Wilco front man Jeff Tweedy, JC Brooks and The Uptown Sound, Steve Albini, Robbie Fulks, Bill Callahan, The Blisters and Danielson Famile.

Tickets are $15 and are only available beginning on Tuesday, December 14, at 6 p.m. at the Second City box office. The tickets are good for the entire 24 hours. All tickets sales and revenue from the event’s auctions will go toward helping some of Chicago’s neediest families.

By Richard Giraldi  \  comments

Three rootin’ tootin’ reasons to head on over to the Hideout tonight…

1. It’s Monday which, for the time being, means it’s Robbie Fulks Monday. He owns that night at the Hideout and this week is no exception. If you’ve not heard but like good old fashioned country, country the way it used to be, full of dry wit and a big old f#@& you attitude then Robbie is your man. There’s no winking here. Just honest to goodness countrified music through and through.

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By Ross Meyerson  \  comments