“I’ve always been endeared to Chicago because it reminds me so much of New York,” Day told GoPride.com in 2017, before headlining Market Days. “When I think of Chicago, I think of the birth of House Music, Frankie Knuckles, the Warehouse after which house music is named, and I think of the fun that I have when I go to the Chosen Few festival with the legendary Terry Hunter. I had a chance to live in Chicago for a couple of months when I was touring with ‘The Wiz’ revival with Stephanie Mills and some of the other original cast members. I loved it and hated to leave. Winter was brutal, but worth it.”
So who is Inaya Day?
“Inaya Day is a God-believing, soulful, tribal, gospel, funk, rock, house, R&B-singing, bandleader, musician who loves doing musical theater,” she answered. “To those who know all about me, I say, ‘Thank you for lending an ear, your time, and your support.’ I really do appreciate all that you do. It’s because of you that I’ve been doing this for so long and because of you, I will continue.”
Day released the club anthem Movin’ Up’ in 1997.
Yep, 20 years ago, and it’s still a huge request.
“I’m thankful and blessed to have such a classic in my repertoire and catalog,” Day said. “I wrote and recorded this song with one of my childhood besties, Tichina Arnold, aka, Chyna Ro. It’s one of my favorites to perform.”
Inaya Day performs the North Stage at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 22. The 19th annual Chicago Pride Fest takes place on June 22-23, one weekend before the annual Chicago Pride Parade. It runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. down North Halsted Street from Addison to Grace. A $10 suggested donation is requested at the entrance.
This year’s festival honors the birth of the pride movement by recognizing the 50th anniversary of Stonewall.
The 2019 Chicago Pride Parade, celebrating its 50th year, is Sunday, June 30 starting at noon.
Chicago Pride Fest is organized by and benefits the Northalsted Business Alliance, the organization behind Northalsted Market Days, Frost Fest and the Halloween Parade.
