Inked & Amped Bringing Music, Tattoos and Chicago’s DIY Scene Together at Ramova Theatre

Rock music, tattoo culture, and Chicago nightlife all come together next month when Maverick and SPIN present the second installment of Inked & Amped. The September 17 gathering at the city’s historic Ramova Theatre spotlights local bands, makers, and area tattoo artists. Nashville-bred alternative favorites Bully will headline the DIY-minded event.

On the heels of the successful Inked & Amped kickoff event in Mansfield, Ohio in July, the shift to Chicago is a natural progression for the partnership. The city’s ties to independent music, art, fashion, and alternative culture are undeniably strong.

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More than a live music event, Inked & Amped celebrates the independent spirit that fuels local creative communities. Through its partnership with SPIN, Maverick is helping create a platform where musicians, tattoo artists, makers, and 21+ adult fans can connect around a shared passion for self-expression and originality.

“Inked & Amped is about spotlighting the people who are shaping culture in their own communities,” said Lauren Richmond, Brand Director, Maverick. “From music and art to tattoo culture and craftsmanship, we’re creating spaces that bring together creators and 21+ adult fans who embrace individuality and authenticity.”

Bully is fronted by Alicia Bognanno, who has a strong connection to Chicago dating back to when she interned at Steve Albini’s Electrical Audio Studios. Bully’s amalgam of punk, grunge and melodic alt sounds has earned it a national following over the course of the past ten years. Bully’s most recent album, 2023’s Lucky for You, features standout tracks like “Lose You” (with Soccer Mommy) and the memorable anthem “Days Move Slow.”

Homegrown talent will also be front and center at Inked & Amped. La Rosa Noir fuses elements of surf, post-punk, new wave and Latin rhythms to forge a unique sound. A product of the Windy City’s DIY scene, the band has built a strong live reputation. Their atmospheric and energetic debut album, Arellano, was released in 2023 and features the key tracks “Streetlight” and “New Gods.” La Rosa Noir’s alluring new single, “Mourning Rain” dropped earlier this month.

Fellow Chicagoans Iris Blue will also perform at the event. The local outfit describes their sound as “Indie Jam Gaze.” That’s a fitting tag, based on the band’s blend of classic indie rock, shoegaze influences and jam band touches, evident on the group’s stellar singles “Meant Well” and “Duel Pulled.”

Montreal punk rockers Bad Skin will kick off the music component of Inked & Amped. The all-female foursome has toured the globe, sharing stages with artists like Billy Corgan, Billy Talent, Bad Religion and Goldfinger. With catchy songs like “We Are the Girls,” a fiery rendition of ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” and their French-sung anthem “Vive Le Quebec” plus an eye-popping stage presence, guests can count on them to get the party started.

When Inked & Amped touches down in Chicago, The Ramova will morph into its own alternative marketplace for the evening. Doors for the 21+ event open at 6 p.m., which gives guests plenty of time to explore the venue.

Attendees can get tattooed, discover local artists and makers, shop vintage wares, meet other music fans and catch a phenomenal live show all in the same night. The Ramova Grill & Taproom will also be serving food and drinks throughout the evening.

For anyone looking to experience Chicago’s independent creative community in one loud, colorful and decidedly unconventional setting, Inked & Amped promises a night built around the people and culture that make the city’s alternative scene hum.

Inked & Amped takes place September 17 at The Ramova Theatre in Chicago. The 21-and-over event runs from 6 p.m. through midnight, with programming continuing into the night. Tickets are free and required for entry. Admission is first-come, first-served and subject to venue capacity. RSVP here.

This article was developed in partnership with Maverick.

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