Big Dog Mercer
Over 100 performances annually • Chicago Blues Hall of Fame Inductee •
2026 International Blues Challenge Semi-Finalist
A two-time Chicago Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Marty “Big Dog” Mercer has become one of the Midwest’s most recognizable blues performers. Standing 6’10” with a commanding stage presence and unmistakable Southpaw Blues style, Mercer delivers a powerful blend of traditional Chicago blues, soulful storytelling, and high-energy rock influences that keep audiences engaged from the first note to the last.
Mercer’s career reached another milestone in 2026 when he advanced to the Semi-Finals of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee, competing against some of the finest blues artists from around the world. His acclaimed live recording, Live at the Roxy, was also recognized with a nomination for Best Self-Produced CD by the Blues Foundation, further cementing his reputation as both a performer and songwriter.
Known for his aggressive yet soulful guitar work and rich, expressive vocals, Mercer writes and performs music that reflects real-life experiences, connecting with audiences through authenticity and emotion. Whether delivering a hard-driving blues rocker or a heartfelt ballad, his performances leave a lasting impression.
Performing well over 100 shows each year throughout the Midwest and beyond, Mercer and his band have built a reputation for delivering crowd-focused performances that keep audiences engaged and venues thriving. From festivals and theaters to casinos, clubs, and concert series, they consistently bring professionalism, energy, and a genuine love of the blues to every stage.
Mercer’s accomplishments include performances at legendary venues and events such as Buddy Guy’s Legends, House of Blues Chicago, the Chicago Blues Festival, and multiple appearances at the Des Plaines Theatre. His ability to connect with audiences of all ages has earned him a loyal following and repeat bookings throughout the region.
Beyond the stage, Mercer remains dedicated to preserving and promoting the blues tradition while introducing it to new generations of listeners. His induction into the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame recognized not only his accomplishments but also his continued commitment to keeping the blues alive and relevant.
As Marty “Big Dog” Mercer continues to tour, record, and perform, he carries forward the spirit of the blues while adding his own distinctive voice to its ongoing story. With every performance, he proves why he remains one of the most respected and sought-after blues artists in the Midwest.
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Big Dog Mercer
Marty “Big Dog” Mercer is a two-time Chicago Blues Hall of Fame inductee and International Blues Challenge Semi-Finalist whose powerful Southpaw Blues style combines traditional Chicago blues, soulful storytelling, and high-energy rock influences. Known for his commanding stage presence, exceptional guitar work, and authentic songwriting, Mercer delivers crowd-pleasing performances that have made him one of the Midwest’s most respected and sought-after blues artists.
Reasons to Book
Over 100 performances annually • Chicago Blues Hall of Fame Inductee •
2026 International Blues Challenge Semi-Finalist
A two-time Chicago Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Marty “Big Dog” Mercer has become one of the Midwest’s most recognizable blues performers. Standing 6’10” with a commanding stage presence and unmistakable Southpaw Blues style, Mercer delivers a powerful blend of traditional Chicago blues, soulful storytelling, and high-energy rock influences that keep audiences engaged from the first note to the last.
Mercer’s career reached another milestone in 2026 when he advanced to the Semi-Finals of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee, competing against some of the finest blues artists from around the world. His acclaimed live recording, Live at the Roxy, was also recognized with a nomination for Best Self-Produced CD by the Blues Foundation, further cementing his reputation as both a performer and songwriter.
Known for his aggressive yet soulful guitar work and rich, expressive vocals, Mercer writes and performs music that reflects real-life experiences, connecting with audiences through authenticity and emotion. Whether delivering a hard-driving blues rocker or a heartfelt ballad, his performances leave a lasting impression.
Performing well over 100 shows each year throughout the Midwest and beyond, Mercer and his band have built a reputation for delivering crowd-focused performances that keep audiences engaged and venues thriving. From festivals and theaters to casinos, clubs, and concert series, they consistently bring professionalism, energy, and a genuine love of the blues to every stage.
Mercer’s accomplishments include performances at legendary venues and events such as Buddy Guy’s Legends, House of Blues Chicago, the Chicago Blues Festival, and multiple appearances at the Des Plaines Theatre. His ability to connect with audiences of all ages has earned him a loyal following and repeat bookings throughout the region.
Beyond the stage, Mercer remains dedicated to preserving and promoting the blues tradition while introducing it to new generations of listeners. His induction into the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame recognized not only his accomplishments but also his continued commitment to keeping the blues alive and relevant.
As Marty “Big Dog” Mercer continues to tour, record, and perform, he carries forward the spirit of the blues while adding his own distinctive voice to its ongoing story. With every performance, he proves why he remains one of the most respected and sought-after blues artists in the Midwest.
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Chicago’s Ultimate 90s Throwback Experience!
Run Forrest Run is your ultimate answer to all things 90s! With today’s radio stations dominated by endless pop and R&B hits, sometimes you just want to rewind to the “good old days” of music. And we don’t mean last year—we’re talking about a full-on time warp back to when you were playing Pokémon on your Game Boy, jumping out of your skin when your Furby suddenly came to life in the middle of the night, or staying up late with a stack of Goosebumps books by your side. Think sour Warheads, your trusty Walkman, and rushing to your best friend’s house to trade pogs before dinner. Those memories, those sounds, and that nostalgia are exactly what Run Forrest Run brings to life.
The 90s was a generation filled with energy, fun, and unforgettable music, and that’s what we’re here to celebrate. Run Forrest Run is more than just a band—we’re your time machine back to an era that shaped us all. From the hits that made you sing at the top of your lungs to the songs that still get you dancing, we pour our love for the 90s into every performance. Our mission is simple: to bring you the same joy this decade has brought us, and to keep the 90s alive as the best tribute around Chicago.
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What You Can Expect to Hear:
3 Doors Down – 4 Non Blondes – Ace of Base – Alanis Morissette – Alice DJ – Aqua – Avril Lavigne – Backstreet Boys – Blackstreet – Blink 182 – Blur – Bowling for Soup – Britney Spears – Cher – Chumbawumba – Coolio – The Cranberries – Creed – The Darkness – DJ Kool – Eiffel 65 – EMF – Eve 6 – Faith Hill – Fountains of Wayne – Ginuwine – Green Day – Haddaway – Hanson – Harvey Danger – House of Pain – Jimmy Eat World – Kriss Kross – Lit – MC Hammer – Montell Jordan – Nine Days – Nirvana – No Doubt – NSYNC – Oasis – Proclaimers – Radiohead – Ricky Martin – Santana – Semisonic – Shaggy – Shania Twain – Smash Mouth – Spice Girls – Sublime – Suager Ray – Third Eye Blind – TLC – Vengaboys – Weezer – Wheatus – Young MC – and more!