Jay Hemphill Band Holding Raue Center Concert Friday Night
Jason Hemphill used to be the contemporary music director at the First United Methodist Church of Crystal Lake.
Since leaving, he has formed a band called Elevate.
The eight-person ensemble consists of
- Jayson Hemphill, Vocals, keyboard and band founder
- Jody Posers, Vocals
- Aaron Netsell, Guitar, Vocals
- Kevin Levels, Bass
- Tyler Ommen, Drums
- Nathan Staley, Percussion
- Christine Tuck, Brass
- John Tuck, Brass
Why does Elevate exist?
“Elevate the music that we perform, to a level that cannot be ignored by those who hear it.
“Elevate the audience through our performance, to a place they were not expecting and a place that leaves them better than they were before.
“Elevate each other; musically (through individual preparation, group rehearsal, and a constant pursuit of excellence), personally (through open and honest encouragement and communication), and spiritually (through daily prayer and collective study of God’s word).
“Elevate ourselves, as individuals and as a team, to a place where we are a source of inspiration and opportunity for other creative people to utilize their God given gifts in Christ’s name.
“Elevate the music that we perform, to a level that cannot be ignored by those who hear it.
“Elevate the audience through our performance, to a place they were not expecting and a place that leaves them better than they were before.
“Elevate each other; musically (through individual preparation, group rehearsal, and a constant pursuit of excellence), personally (through open and honest encouragement and communication), and spiritually (through daily prayer and collective study of God’s word).
“Elevate ourselves, as individuals and as a team, to a place where we are a source of inspiration and opportunity for other creative people to utilize their God given gifts in Christ’s name.”
Here’s a sample.
The band is performing at the Raue Center in Crystal Lake on Friday, June 22nd. Tickets ordered ahead are $20, $25 at the door. The show starts at 8:30.


I believe I attended some music classes at Millikin with Jayson.
And lived in Mills Hall freshman year.
Small world.
Nice to see him still using his talents, he was really good at Millikin.
1Gee Cal, when are you going to promo a Still Kickin’ show?
That is a NINE piece ensemble group. And the next show is all ages AND free.
2Correction: My name is Jody Powers, not Judy Posers. I am a vocalist in J’s band, Elevate.
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