Eddie Korosa Jr, "The Boys & Girl from Illinois"
Eddie Korosa Jr and the "Boys From Illinois"
Eddie Korosa and the Boys have been harmonizing their musical talents since 1976, traversing a captivating soundscape that encompasses polkas, big band classics, rock and roll, and country melodies. Their journey has seen them gracing television screens, radio waves, movies, and global stages by invitation. Dazzling audiences around the world, the band's signature blend of genres has resonated from Germany and Austria to Switzerland, France, Italy, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and South America, through numerous polka festivals.
Stateside, Eddie Korosa and his ensemble are a regular spectacle at renowned Polkafests across Las Vegas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Minnesota, Illinois, and Florida. The group's captivating performances are a fixture at weddings, anniversary celebrations, church-sponsored festivities, and esteemed venues like Moose Lodges, Elk Lodges, VFW Halls, and American Legion Halls. Their lively tunes have also graced larger events including festivals at Navy Pier in Chicago, the Arlington Million, and the Museum of Science and Industry's cherished "Christmas Around the World" exhibit. An impressive presence extends to various Chicago Public Libraries during the National Polish Heritage Month.
Eddie's musical journey began at the tender age of seven when he joined his father's band as a drummer. He ascended to the spotlight, performing on his parents' Emmy-nominated television show, "Eddie Korosa's Polka Party," from 1970 to 1984. This early exposure laid the foundation for an illustrious career, leading him to accompany notable figures such as Bobby Vinton and even Pope John Paul II's motorcade stop at the Baby Doll Polka Club in 1979. Eddie's talent soon expanded to accordion and a custom-made button box from Germany. Recognized for his prowess, he was crowned "Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year" in 1996 and "Accordion Player of the Year" in 1997 by the United Polka Association.
Eddie's magnetic presence has graced screens and stages alike. His band was selected from a myriad of polka bands nationwide to star in a Pepsi commercial titled "Create Your Own CD." From welcoming the World Cup Soccer team to Chicago at O'Hare Intl. Airport to featuring as John Candy's Polka Band in the iconic movie "Home Alone," Eddie's vibrancy extends across media platforms. Television segments on prominent shows like "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous," "Jenny Jones Show," and PBS's "Chicago Stories" showcase the magic of his music.
Despite his deep affinity for polkas, Eddie Korosa Jr. and the Boys venture beyond to cater to diverse tastes. From big band waltzes and swing to rock and roll, country hits, and line dances, their repertoire spans the decades from the 1920s to the 1970s. After the legendary Baby Doll Polka Club's closure in 2004, Eddie proudly carries forward the torch of his family's musical legacy, touching hearts both near and far with their captivating performances.