Our Story

Thank you so much for coming to visit us on the web.
Hooked On Sonics has been winning over Chicagoland audiences since 2002, with their potent blend of high energy dance and rock.

  • Your ultimate musical satifaction is truly our number one priority, whether we are performing for your wedding, party, corporate event or club, or whether you are a participant in the audience. We love nothing more than to see everyone on their feet, with their hands in the air and having the time of their lives. And we would love to that for you!

  • This is the band that people rave about long after the party is over!
    You don't want to hear the same old songs, by the same old bands. You want something refreshing, upbeat and fun. Whether you sit back and watch like a Las Vegas revue or jump around and dance like it's going out of fashion, you will have the good time you are looking for, and that quite frankly, we think you deserve! Comprised of serious, over-the-top players, who refuse to take themselves too seriously, Hooked On Sonic's ability allows them to play all styles with total conviction and energy and at a non-stop pace. Songs you may not have even thought you liked will become your new favorites once you hear them played by Hooked On Sonics, whether it be a song from the 60's or something that came out just yesterday. So come out with your friends and dance the night away with Chicago's ultimate band - Hooked On Sonics!

  • upcoming shows
    Our Clients

    Research In Motion (Blackberry)

    McDonald's (Oakbrook Hyatt)

    Art Institue of Chicago

    Millenium Park

    Taste of Romeoville

    Taste of Edison Park

    Harrah's Casino

    Grand Victoria's Casino

    Horseshoe Casino

    Empress Casino

    Hollywood Casino

    European Crystal Banquets

    Long Grove Strawberry Fest

    Davis School - St. Charles

    Springbrook Prairie Pavillion

    Village Of North Riverside

    Belmont Sheffield Music Fest

    Munster Music Fest

    Taste of Joliet opening for Everclear

    The Space - Chicago

    John Barleycorn's

    Duffy's

    Cubby Bear

    Soffitel Hotel

    East Bank Club - Chicago

    115 Bourbon St.

    Durty Nellies

    La Grange Fall Festival

    October Fest - Chicago

    Summer On Southport

    Taste of the Glenn

    Ogden Auto Group

    Ship and Shore fest

    North Ave Beach

    Nextwave Logistics

    Grillin in Grafton (WI)

    Homewood Days

    Sam Maguires

    Hinsdale Parade

    Wrigleyville Fest

    Temulac Boat Club

    Topaz Cafe

    The Promenade Bolingbrook

    Orland Park Concert Series

    Round Lake Beach Civic Center

    Ivanhoe Country Club

    Lane Tech HS

    Glencoe Grand Prix

    Limestone Brewery

    Renaissance Hotel

    Barrington Hills Country Club

    Hawthorne Woods Country Club

    Westmoreland Country Club

    Aurora Country Club

    Edgewood Valley Country Club

    Homewood Days

    Clearwater Theater

    The Mission

    McGee's

    Conely Elementary School

    Mackeben Elementary back-to-school bash

    Amhurst Business Park

    Round Lake Beach Civic Center

    La Grange Fall Festival

    CD n' Me

    The Colosseum

    Taste Of Lombard

    Walter Payton's Roundhouse

    Chicago Compressor Holiday Party

    The Foundry

    Our Team
    • Nick Sanzeri

      Nick Sanzeri is the lead vocalist and bass player and has been playing his whole life. AKA Gern Blanston ...more

    • Gary Neuburger

      Gary Neuburger is the guitarist. The man, the myth, the legend...more

    • Rich Lavin

      Rich Lavin is the drummer and backing vocalist. Come see Rich and you'll be seeing the evolution of one of rock's great drummers...more

    Photo gallery
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    What You Might Have Been afraid to Ask
    Do you play weddings?

    For your once-in-a-lifetime event, put your worries to rest and hire Hooked On Sonics. The band consists of reliable and professional musicians who have performed together at countless weddings and private events throughout the Midwest ...more


    Do you play parties?

    We do and have played many. Whether it be outdoors or inside or somewhere in between... ...more


    I want to book Hooked On Sonics! What advance notice do you need?

    We are glad you asked! The more advance notice, the better the chances of us being able to connect. A small deposit for private events and weddings is all you need to secure Hooked On Sonics for your special date.


    Do you guys play Freebird?

    Wow. Check out my friend Gregory Hyde's blog post on this subject and you will begin to come close to realizing how we feel about this song!
    FREEBIRD!!!


    Shouldn't you guys be charging more money?

    You could pay a lot more for a band and not have anywhere near the good time that you will with Hooked on Sonics. We love playing so much that we want everyone to experience the pleasure of having Hooked On Sonics play for them and we try to make every event a win/win for everyone involved.


    What kind of power do you need for your set up?

    Although there are really no special power requirements, two seperate circuits that are at least 15 amps will ensure that the night stays running smooth and that we don't cause a breaker to malfunction. If this isn't possible, we can adjust the type of equipment we use to help ensure that the night goes smoothly.


    Do you guys take requests?

    Sure we do. And if you follow the advice of my friend Gregory Hyde, you may actually hear the song you request!
    Request Etiquette


    I am a coordinator for a venue. How do I obtain a stage plot or any other tech specs?

    Thanks so much for taking the time to see that we have the necessary A/V support ahead of time. You rock!

    Stage Plot

    I am an event coordinator. Do you have any promotional materials that I could use?

    We do! You could download various graphics as one zip bundle here:

    Press Materials


    Do you have any references that I could talk to?

    Of course - and they would be happy to tell you about their great experience with Hooked On Sonics. Just let us know that you would like that when you contact us.


    I would love to see Hooked On Sonics play live. Where can I find out when and where the band is playing next?

    Just check out our shows page. You could even sync up with your Outlook calendar or other portable device or import our calendar into your own Google calendar for easy reference!


    Don't Take Our Word For It
    Jane L. (2012 NYE Party)

    Nick. You were simply perfect in every way. All of our guests were still talking about the band and how amazing you were the next day at brunch. You are all so talented and were such fun. We had a fair range of ages and the comments about you were all the same. The best band ever. Thanks to all of you and your families for letting you be with us on NYE. We are so very grateful. Thanks for everything.


    Rita and Kris (wedding clients)

    Hi Nick! Kris and I just wanted to say thank you guys so much for your outstanding performance at our wedding! You guys sounded amazing! Honestly, I've never heard a live band sound so good. Kris talks about how awesome him every other day still. Nick, you have an amazing voice and you did a wonderful job emceeing. You guys were so laid back, cool and professional; a real pleasure. Some of our guests were so stiff and dry but you guys kept rocking out right in their faces! We loved it! Haha! They couldn't help but get out of their seats! We honestly couldn't have imagined better entertainment at our wedding than Hooked On Sonics. Thank you so much for everything :)


    Marisa and Eric (wedding clients)

    Hey Nick! It is fun rehashing the wedding with our friends and family and everyone has given great compliments on you guys, I even had someone ask about you as a referral so hopefully we can give you more business. But I know everyone had so much fun, we definitely had a blast, all thanks to you!


    David and Chrissy (wedding clients)

    Hooked on Sonics was amazing! Everyone was raving about your band! You had people dancing that I ever thought I'd live to see dance. You had me dancing more than I ever have (I dread dancing) and I was stone cold sober! I saw the guy using the flip video camera when you were playing. I would LOVE a copy of whatever footage you have of the night at East Bank Club. Would you burn the files to a disc and mail to us? I would love anything you have! I also provided with many referals to your website.


    Joe and Lindsay (wedding clients)

    We can't possibly express our sincere gratitude to you and the rest of the band! You were fabulous! The dance floor was packed, and our guests can't stop talking about you! You truly made the evening fun, energetic, and unique! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!! It truly means so much to us and Joe's family that Phil was able to play with you guys. That experience was absolutely priceless. If you need referrals or if any prospective wedding clients would like someone to talk to we'd be happy to do so!


    Beth and Mike (wedding clients)

    THANK YOU for how amazing you guys were at our wedding. We received sooo many compliments on you guys, you were so awesome. We had the best time and you guys were a huge part of it. so thank you so much. we can't wait to have a night out and see you guys again! Our photographer was really pleased with you guys as well. Again, thank you so much. you guys know how to wow a crowd. We can't wait to see you guys perform again!


    Tim C (party host)

    Off the charts! These three guys were happy to be there and played like it too. Thanks for a great time!


    Will L (wedding client)

    Hooked On Sonics are not only one of the best live bands in Chicago, but they are the nicest guys you could ever meet. They made my wedding the biggest BASH of our lives and had the entire crowd on their feet the entire time! If you are looking for a band that can rock, funk out, and throw in some pop for good measure, this is YOUR band! Honestly words cannot do these guys justice, check them out live and you will see what i am talking about!!


    Michael McDonald (Doobie Brothers)

    You've got a really soulful voice and great rhythm. You don't see many bass player/singers that can hold it down like that. You guys are really great.


    Beth C (club patron)

    You guys rocked @ Kerry Piper 11/17! My first time seeing you - wont be the last!


    Michael N (wedding client)

    We had a great time as well, and we got a LOT of compliments about you guys; everyone really was impressed. The music is key part in making a night like that a fun party. You guys really rocked it so, thank YOU for all of that.


    Yolanda and Bob (wedding client)

    I want to thank you so much for the wonderful job that you and your band did for our wedding. Everyone had loved the music and is going to see you guys in the future. Thanks, again for making my day special. I was so so happy and never stopped dancing. I hope you had a great time too. Will see you soon! Thanks again, Yolanda


    Suzy M (Salt Creek Club in Hinsdale)

    We saw you yesterday at the parade and couldn't stop talking about you - great show! Wondering if you were available to play at another party later in the summer or fall. Thanks so much, Suzy


    Elizabeth M (birthday party)

    I had the best weekend I've ever had in my whole life!! It was honestly the best! Thanks to you!! Thank you again for everything, you guys rocked!!


    James S (wedding client)

    We just wanted to thank you again for Sat night...you guys killed it! We have been getting nothing but compliments about your perfomance. Hopefully you made it back safely. Would you please let me know an address where I can send a thank you? Thanks again! James


    Chad (wedding party)

    Just wanted to reach out and thank you and the guys again for stepping up and bringing it. Truly. Thanks so much. I mean it when I say you guys were great. BTW, do you guys have any posters or fliers of you and the band? You have made pinup status with a few of the kids. They loved you so much they want a "Tiger Beat" style poster of you. I got calls and emails all day telling me how awesome you guys were.


    Jeff C (promoter)

    What a blast we had last night!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You guys rocked the house!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We need to get y'all back there soon. Tell the guys that we here at "The Uptown Tap" had a great time and everyone looks forward to another "Hooked On Sonics Party". Talk to you soon.


    Marci K (wedding client)

    I had such a blast on Saturday night, so thank you!!! All of our friends and family loved you guys and are so excited for you to play at our wedding.


    Melanie D (wedding client)

    More importantly, we had a FANTASTIC time! We are still getting compliments on how great you guys were. Thank you again! We had a blast! Hope all is well and we look forward to seeing you guys soon! Melanie


    Michelle F (party host)

    We do this every year and I am sure we will want to have you back again next year. You guys are the best band we have had yet! I looked at your website to see where else you will be playing and I hope to get a chance to see you soon!


    Michelle (club goer)

    Hey guys! This is one of the Kansas City girls at Cheapseats last week. Wanted to tell you we had a blast and thank GOD you were there! Seriously you were awesome and so much fun. Please let us know if you are in KC and we will be there! XOXO


    Scott F (party Host)

    Thank you so much. I just referred you to M B of the Empress Casino but she said they already use your band and love you guys. Thanks for making the party a huge sucessful bash.


    Alan M (Father of the Bride)

    Oh My God! Its been 24 hours since our daughter's wedding, and our phones have been ringing and text messaging all day with praise from the wedding guests about Nick, Gary, and Rich in the Hooked On Sonics Band. Everyone is raving about how cool it was to have such a kick-ass real rock band at a wedding instead of just a wedding band. Everyone danced and had the time of their lives. It was a mixed crowd of all ages, and it was so much fun that even 90 year old people and small children were rocking out. The wedding was a magical event due to the intensity of the band!

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    Thanks for contacting Hooked On Sonics!

    We will be in touch soon.

    We take your wedding very seriously and want you to be able to have the ultimate Chicago Wedding band play for you, at an affordable price. We will give you the greatest value for your money in the we cater to your every request and your guests will be in awe as they have the best time possible at your Wedding. If your corporate party needs a injection of life, then look no farther than Hooked On Sonics. Having played for Blackberry, McDonald's and many other major corporate entites, we know how to get that type of party started. Always on top of the latest hits, and best classic hits, we provide something for everyone.

    For your once-in-a-lifetime event, put your worries to rest and hire Hooked On Sonics. The band consists of reliable and professional musicians who have performed together at countless weddings and private events throughout the Midwest. We arrive early, tastefully dressed and are extremely easy to work with. Most importantly, we will work out every detail of the night's events with you well in advance.

    We give our clients the opportunity to select anywhere from a few songs to the entire night's worth of music from our extensive and continually expanding song list.

    Here are the services we provide standard at any wedding. This is what makes us the #1 value in addition to being your ultimate wedding band!

    Let Hooked On Sonics take your wedding from ordinary to extraordinary, by making your wedding a non-stop, hands-in-the-air dance party that your guests will rave about well after the event is over!

    We do and have played many. Whether it be outdoors or inside or somewhere in between, Hooked On Sonics is your ultimate party choice!

    We'll keep your party dancing all night long and do not require an inordinate amount of space to set-up. There is no arrangement too unusual for Hooked On Sonics to accomodate.

    And as always:

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    Sexy And I Know It - LMFAO
    Take On Me - A-Ha
    Respect - Aretha Franklin
    I Am The Walrus - Beatles
    Something - Beatles
    You Should Be Dancing - Bee Gees
    Rebel Yell - Billy Idol
    Piano Man - Billy Joel
    Hard To Handle - Black Crowes
    Song #2 - Blur
    Living On A Prayer - Bon Jovi
    Toxic - Britney Spears
    Dancing In The Dark - Bruce Springsteen
    Word Up - Cameo
    Devil Went Down To Georgia - Charlie Daniel's Band
    Let's Dance - David Bowie
    Fame - David Bowie
    You Spin Me - Dead Or Alive
    Bodies - Drowning Pool
    Drift Away - Dobie Grey
    Hungry Like The Wolf - Duran Duran
    Long Train Running - Doobie Brothers
    Touch Myself - Dyvinyls
    Brickhouse - Earth Wind and Fire
    September - Earth Wind and Fire
    I Shot the Sheriff - Eric Clapton
    Bennie and the Jets - Elton John
    Paralyzer - Finger Eleven
    Alright Now - Free
    Cars - Gary Neumann
    I Don't Want to Be - Gavin DeGraw
    Faith - George Michael
    Crazy - Gnarles Barkley
    American Band - Grand Funk Railroad
    Some Kind Of Wonderful - Grand Funk Railroad
    Boulevard Of Broken Dreams - Green Day
    Welcome To The Jungle - Gun And Roses
    I Hate to Say I Told You So - Hives
    Party Rock Anthem - LMFAO
    I Want a New Drug - Huey Lewis
    Vehicle , Ides Of March
    New Sensation - INXS
    I Feel Good - James Brown
    Are You Gonna Be My Girl? - Jet
    Fire - Jimi Hendrix
    In The Middle - Jimmy Eat World
    In The End - Linkin Park
    Funky Town - Lipps Inc
    Cult Of Personality - Living Color
    Makes Me Wonder - Maroon 5
    Harder To Breathe - Maroon 5
    This Love - Maroon 5
    Don't Stop Til You Get Enough - Michael Jackson
    Kickstart My Heart - Motley Crue
    Ace Of Spades - Mototrhead
    Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond
    Hot n Herre - Nelly
    Blue Monday - New Order
    This Is How You Remind Me - NickelBack
    Hella Good - No Doubt
    Roller Coaster - Ohio Players
    Hey Ya - Outkast
    Have A Cigar - Pink Floyd
    Young Lust - Pink Floyd
    GoldenBoy - Primus
    Wynonas Big Brown Beaver - Primus
    1999 , Prince
    When Doves Cry - Prince
    Control - Puddle Of Mudd
    Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Queen
    Lost Art Of Keeping A Secret - Queens Of The Stone Age
    No One Knows - Queens Of the Stone Age
    Killing in the Name Of - Rage Against the Machine
    Black Betty - Ram Jam
    Snow - RHCP
    American Girl - Peg
    You Shook Me - AC/DC
    Rock Your Body - Justin Timberlake
    Sexy Back - Justin Timberlake
    Domino - Jessie James
    Stronger - Kanye West
    Thats the Way - KC and The Sunshine Band
    Since U Been Gone - Kelly Clarkson
    Footloose - Kenny Loggins
    Rock N Roll All Night - Kiss
    Get Down On It - Kool And the Gang
    Good Times Bad Times - Led Zeppelin
    Rock N Roll - Led Zeppelin
    What Is And What ShouldNever Be - Led Zeppelin
    Aeroplane - RHCP
    Give it away - RHCP
    Shut Up And Drive , Rhiana
    Superfreak - Rick James
    Jessie's Girl - Rick Springfield
    Addicted To Love - Robert Palmer
    Simple Irresitible - Robert Palmer
    Smooth , Santana
    Don't Forget About Me - Simple Minds
    Baby Got Back - Sir Mix A Lot
    Tempted By The Fruit Of Another - Squeeze
    Born To Be Wild - Steppenwolf
    Fly Like An Eagle - Steve Miller
    Boogie On Reggae Woman , Stevie Wonder
    Trippin On A Hole - Stone Temple Pilots
    Wrong Way - Sublime
    Boogie Oogie Oogie - Taste Of Honey
    How To Save A Life - The Fray
    Believer - The Monkees
    Lose Your Love - The Outfield
    So Happy Together - The Turtles
    She's Not There - The Zombies
    She Blinded Me With Science - Thomas Dolby
    What Is Hip - Tower Of Power
    Vertigo - U2
    Hot For Teacher - Van Halen
    Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison
    Domino - Van Morrison
    Moon Dance - Van Morrison
    Wake Me Up Before You Go Go - Wham
    Fell In Love With A girl - WhiteStripes
    Play that Funky Music - Wild Cherry
    Mustang Sally - The Commitments
    Bust A Move - Young MC
    Nick Sanzeri is the lead vocalist and bass player and has been playing his whole life. Some people come for his sense of humor but end up staying for the funk. Musical activities include many recording and session dates, as well as playing in orchestras, society bands and speed metal outfits. He was a music tutor at Columbia College, had a large roster of private guitar and bass students and was also a long time member of Libido Funk Circus, as well as first place winner in the Budweiser "cutting heads" bass solo competition.
    Gary Neuburger is the guitarist. The man, the myth, the legend, Gary can lay down a funk groove one minute and then play an incendiary Van Halen solo note for note the next. Always tasteful, an incredibly sweet human being, and a furiously shredding guitarist.
    Rich Lavin is the drummer and backing vocalist. Come see Rich and you'll be seeing the evolution of one of rock's great drummers. Hard hitting as John Bonham and as detailed as any fusion master, Rich is definitely a drummer that has to be seen to be believed.