Lynn Lupo, Lead Vocals, Guitar
Lynn brings to the stage a powerful and expressive singing voice developed over 30 years of public performance. Classically trained, she holds a B.F.A. in Music/Theatre Performance from Illinois Wesleyan University. She has performed at a variety of venues throughout the Midwest, everything from classical to classic rock. In addition to LUPO, she fronts Heartless, the Midwest's premiere tribute to Heart, and previously fronted the successful cover band Phoenix.
An award-winning singer, Lynn's stellar vocals are recognized throughout the Chicago area. She is skilled in various musical styles, and she loves to sing them all. Her influences include Ann Wilson, Melissa Etheridge, Rod Stewart and Roger Daltry. She brings her passion and love of performance to every show.
Chris Dikszas, Guitar, Vocals
Chris is a native Chicagoan, raised on the far south side. For his 9th birthday, his mom & dad bought him an inexpensive guitar; lessons soon followed. By age 17, he was playing the local clubs. For 29 years, he has performed at venues all over the Chicago & tri-state areas like Navy Pier, Arlington Race Track, & the Chicago Marathon.
“The music that inspired me the most was everything on the radio from the 60’s and 70’s. Some of my earliest memories were hearing these strange, but magical sounds coming from this small plastic box.” Some of that magic was from The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix.
By emulating the many guitar players and styles from the past 3 decades, Chris has acquired a wide range of skill, diverse abilities, and valuable experience in live performing and recording.
Anthony Caruso, Drums, Vocals
Anthony picked up his first pair of Zildjian drum sticks at the young age of 5. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Columbia College Chicago, and proudly endorses Chicago Drum branded drums. He has played professionally for over 13 years.
Anthony’s live experience includes One Hott Mess and his alternative hard rock band, Big Happy Face. He also played with The Revue, a group he co-founded. He is an accomplished drum teacher, and has taught at the renowned El Rey Music Center in Arlington Heights, IL.
When asked about his heroes, Anthony cites drummers Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Gadd, Jeff Porcaro, Danny Carey, Steve Jordan and many more. His high energy style is a great addition to the LUPO lineup.
Jamie Wika, Bass Guitar, Vocals
Jamie grew up as the youngest of 6 brothers and a sister in the McKinley Park area of Chicago. Older musicians in the neighborhood inspired him to play music; Ray Manzarek of The Doors grew up just a few blocks away.
Jamie studied jazz improvisation under Rich Medel at the Sherwood Conservatory of Music in Chicago (now part of Columbia College). His influences include Chris Squire (Yes), Geddy Lee (Rush), and Mike Rutherford (Genesis) as well as jazz artists Stanley Clarke, Jaco Pastorius, and Victor Wooten. Jamie was a member of the popular Chicago progressive rock band Chaser throughout the ‘80s and early 2000’s. He brings his inspired bass lines and strong vocals to the LUPO mix.
Robb Pedraza, Keyboards, Vocals
Robb took to the piano at age 5 and performed his first recital the following year. By age 13, he earned admission to the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago, where he was continually advanced to higher levels of study.
An accomplished keyboardist and teacher at age 17, Robb played in Chicago area bands while studying at Roosevelt University's College of Performing Arts. He earned a degree in musical theory, piano performance and composition from DePaul University's School of Music, where he tutored under Mary Saur, principal piano of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. At DePaul, Robb studied under American composer and pianist George Flynn, and Cliff Colnot, lead conductor and arranger of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago.
In addition to performing, Robb is an accomplished music producer, songwriter, instructor and church organist who brings a wide range of musical talent and styles to the band.
