Kids in the Rotunda: Hail to the Cash Box Kings

Get ready for a rollicking good time! The Cash Box Kings take the stage at Overture Center's Kids in the Rotunda series on Friday, Nov. 29, bringing soulful melodies and moving lyrics that will have kids and parents dancing in their seats. This world-renowned Chicago blues band transports audiences back to the vibrant 1950s and 60s, evoking the feeling of relaxing on a south-side Chicago front porch.

“Chicago blues significantly influenced early rock ‘n’ roll,” says singer-harpist Joe Nosek, a band member from Madison famous for cultivating his own aggressive, fluid harmonica style. “It’s a music passed down through generations, not taught in classrooms—it’s part of our nation’s shared heritage.”

Founded in 2001, the Cash Box Kings emerged when Nosek reconnected with fellow blues enthusiasts from his days at UW-Madison. Original member Kenny “Beedy Eyes” Smith, son of blues legend Muddy Waters, grew up playing the blues with his dad and friends and relished the chance to jam with younger musicians.

In 2007, Oscar Wilson, hailed as one of the finest traditional blues vocalists and songwriters, joined the ensemble. Born in Chicago with the blues in his blood and with an encyclopedic knowledge of almost every blues song known to man, Wilson is a natural-born entertainer. The lineup also features guitarist Billy Flynn, who has performed with icons like Eric Clapton, Keith Richards and Beyoncé, and bassist John W. Lauler.

“Our mission is to preserve and spread the classic Chicago blues sounds of the 1950s and 60s,” Nosek affirms.

The Cash Box Kings first gained attention on a street corner during the Chicago Blues Festival. Unbeknownst to them, a European blues critic caught their set before they were escorted away for lacking a permit. Within six months, they received an invitation to perform in Europe.

Since then, the band has had a joyful journey, touring Europe, Canada and the U.S. and releasing 11 albums—three with the renowned Alligator Records. While they perform 3-6 shows each month during the academic year, summer sees a surge of 30-40 performances in just four months.

A highlight of their year is the Kids in the Rotunda series, where they’ve played since its earlier days as Kids in the Crossroads at the Madison Civic Center. Nosek and his bandmates thrive on the energy children bring, making each of the three interactive performances (9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.) a joyous experience filled with audience participation.

“These shows are always a highlight. Experiencing music alongside the kids is special,” Nosek shares. “We love inviting kids on stage to play the harmonica with us.”

This year’s performances feature a special guest—rhythm and blues singer Cameron Webb from Milwaukee. Families are encouraged to join the fun on the Rotunda stage.

“This event offers kids their first taste of blues,” Nosek explains. “The Kids in the Rotunda series is important to our community because it exposes children to diverse music and sparks their desire for more musical opportunities and experiences.”

One of Nosek’s fondest memories is when the kids rushed the Rotunda stage with excitement. Another cherished moment occurred when his three children joined him on stage, creating a lasting family memory.

Don’t miss the Cash Box Kings on Friday, Nov. 29 as they bring the classic Chicago blues era to life and teach children about this timeless genre. It’s guaranteed to a carefree, down-home, good time. The 1pm show will also be livestreamed on the Kids in the Rotunda web page.

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