[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 158 (Wednesday, October 28, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2645]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING DENNIS DEYOUNG AS A ``GREAT PERFORMER OF ILLINOIS''

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 28, 2009

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dennis DeYoung on 
his recognition as a Great Performer of Illinois. Great Performers of 
Illinois is an annual celebration of the very best art and culture in 
the State of Illinois. As both his talents and his humanitarian 
contributions to the State of Illinois attest, Mr. DeYoung is indeed 
worthy of recognition.
  A musician from his youngest years, Mr. DeYoung found his audience 
when he formed the band that would later become Styx with a group of 
friends while growing up in Chicago. Over the course of Styx's storied 
career, Mr. DeYoung served as lead vocalist, songwriter, keyboardist, 
producer, and in many other capacities. The band's musical run has 
included a string of multi-platinum albums, worldwide fame, and top 10 
hits in three different decades. That Styx remains one of the biggest-
selling performers in the history of recorded music is a testament to 
Mr. DeYoung's remarkable talent and restless creativity. His numerous 
hits include such utterly original, distinctive, and memorable songs as 
``Lady,'' ``Come Sail Away,'' ``Babe,'' and ``Mr. Roboto.''
  Mr. DeYoung's music is only part of his contribution to society. He 
is a tireless advocate and supporter of the fight against childhood 
cancer. In keeping with this mission, he performed a benefit concert in 
Chicago on October 24th, with proceeds going to the cause of childhood 
cancer research.
  I ask you to join me in honoring Dennis DeYoung for his remarkable 
achievements in both music and society, and his recognition as a Great 
Performer of Illinois.

                          ____________________