BAND SPOTLIGHT | Don Smith Band

The Illinois State Fair has many long-running traditions and in the music department none is more incredible than the run of the Don Smith Band. This year marks 32 straight years of performances on the grounds, far outlasting any other musical act in longevity. The Lincoln native has played the trumpet professionally for nearly six decades, mostly in the big band and swing style with interesting forays into jazz and rock ’n’ roll through the years. Always a strong and able bandleader, Smith is continually booking gigs and playing shows and never fails to give credit to his bandmates as the reason for his success. A member of the Big Band Hall of Fame, the hardworking trumpet man still plays plenty of dates, though claims to be slowing down lately to spend more time with his family. Congrats to Don and all the musicians in his band for another year at the Illinois State Fair. Play on!