WATCH: Backstage Chicago, Episode 2: Chicago summer heats up as live music on the lake, gangster tours, Lolla prep begin

A young sailor takes the wheel at sunset during Live on the Lake at Navy Pier, with Chicago’s skyline setting the scene for an evening of music, lake breezes and summer vibes. (Reilly Cook/MEDILL)

By Abby Feldman and Reilly Cook
Medill Reports

In this episode of “Backstage Chicago,” host Reilly Cook takes viewers on a summer adventure across the city, just as Chicago gears up for Lollapalooza. Reilly kicks things off with a scenic sail during Live on the Lake at Navy Pier, giving us a front-row seat on the water to the city’s vibrant live music scene. Then, we dive into Chicago’s darker history on the Guns & Gangster Walking Tour, exploring the infamous footsteps of Al Capone and his crew. With live beats, historic streets and a Lolla teaser, this episode is a true taste of summer in the city.

“Backstage Chicago” is your all-access pass to the city’s hottest summer events. All reporting and producing is done by Medill video and broadcast graduate students Abby Feldman and Reilly Cook. “Backstage Chicago” is part of these students’ final master’s project. Follow Reilly Cook at @reillycookreports on Instagram.