Straight No Chaser Blog

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Dan Ponce to Join WGN News in Chicago

July 21, 2010

Hello Chasers - we have some bittersweet news to let you all know about. Straight No Chaser’s founding member, Dan Ponce, has recently accepted an offer to return to Chicago and become a general assignment reporter on WGN Channel 9. As you may remember, Dan spent 3 years as a reporter on ABC7 in Chicago and left the post last year to head out on to the road with Straight No Chaser full time. However, with this new offer and his upcoming marriage, Dan has decided to head back home and settle down once again. Dan has been a major contributor to Straight No Chaser’s success over the past few years and we will miss him dearly. But we are happy that we will retain his friendship and support as Straight No Chaser continues.

Dan elaborates "It has been incredible recording and touring the country with 9 amazing friends and musicians. I'm very sad to be leaving, but very happy knowing the group will continue strong without me."

We will be sending Dan off in style as he finishes off the residency at Harrah’s in Atlantic City this summer with the rest of Straight No Chaser. Please join us in wishing Dan the best of luck in his new endeavor, and we can't wait to see you all on our upcoming Fall Tour!

- Straight No Chaser

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Comments (52)

    Fan says
    (20101027T142940Z )

    We saw Straight No Chaser in Kansas City, Missouri and knew something was wrong....you weren't there! We just love your voice. However, the concert was absolutely great and we had a blast. The sold out crowd loved it too....two encores. Guess we'll have to buy more CDs that you are in! Congrats on your upcoming wedding and new job. You made the right decision even though your fans will be missing you. Take care.

    chicagofan says
    (20101020T011402Z )

    Like a few others, I just heard the news. Its a shame to lose one of the founding members and frankly the leader of the group. Living in Chicago, I will see Dan on the news, but hopefully he'll make a one night appearance when the group comes back to Chicago this winter.

    (20100920T065817Z )

    I am so sad about this news. Dan was my favorite, favorite too. Yes, and no offense. You guys are all my favorites. I posted more on Dan's profile.

    Caprice says
    (20100913T182047Z )

    I just heard the news and I'm bummed! Dan was my favorite (no offense). I got tickets for Newark Ohio and am in the 4th row. Bummer

    (20100908T183141Z )

    Ok.......It has taken some time for me to digest this news. I rarely post but always keep up with what SNC is doing and I was so sorry to hear that another original member is leaving; hell, the founding member at that! But I would like to say congratulations to Dan and his bride-to-be. I am sure this was not an easy decision for you. Thanks for the years you shared your talent with everyone. You have accomplished more and created a legacy that will go on, which is more than most people will accomplish in their lifetime. You have a lot to be proud of and great friendships to cherish. Congratulations and good luck.

    (20100907T182340Z )

    May the road rise up to meet you.
    May the wind always be at your back.
    May the sun shine warm upon your face,
    and rains fall soft upon your fields.
    And until we meet again,
    May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

    ~Old Irish Blessing~



    Hazzah!!!! When God closes a door He opens a window.

    Good luck on your new journey and hopefully you will make special appearances with SNC if opportunity allows. I will miss you.

    Joanie says
    (20100816T023411Z )

    Put his microphone up for bid on ebay!

    yeye says
    (20100803T004807Z )

    Bittersweet, indeed! Dan will surely be missed :( ....but as they say, life goes on.......and so to SNC - looking forward to more of you, guys!....we're still here....CHASING the straight NO CHASER :-) .... to Amy and Dan - the best of the best in your journey as one.....and thank you so much, Dan, for starting this group.....hope Atlantic Records will release DVDs of SNC's performances as their live performances are much, much better (if I may say so) - though I do have their CDs :-)

    Gerry says
    (20100801T204846Z )

    First of all, Congrats to Dan! He will be missed. His singing ability and personality just fit so well with Striaght No Chaser. I have been to two conerts with him in the group and they were incredible nights for me and my family. I wish him all the best. For the rest of the guys, keep Thgoing strong on your journey. You are so close to hitting it big, so you have to go on without Dan. This is some bitter sweet news and hard to swallow.

    kayzie says
    (20100801T014103Z )

    Talk about mixed emotions. A lot has been said. Dan, congratulations to you & Amy and I wish you all the happiness in the world as you begin your adventure together. I am happy for both of you. Good luck & happiness in your new job, as well. I know you will be great. I will miss seeing you with SNC. I am very thankful to have DVD's with you in them and that I had the chance to see you in Seattle this year. I know the rest of SNC will miss your talent & presence. I'm sure they will do a great job with your replacement. God Bless you & keep you.

    Brianna says
    (20100730T025540Z )

    Dan, we will miss you (and your fantastic writing!!!) Here's hoping you guys can still get out some of your fantastic songs and arrangments. Good luck in Chicago!

    • SNCChasers
    DaisyKary says
    (20100728T192342Z )

    No. I do not approve. You can't leave. I forbid it.
    *sigh*
    You will be missed in a big way Dan!! Don't forget us Chasers!

    Beckerlynn says
    (20100728T064303Z )

    Bittersweet indeed.

    ~Haley~ says
    (20100726T030135Z )

    OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That's sooo sad! However, I am extremely happy for u Dan and your fiance* Best of Luck!

    Btownmom says
    (20100725T013543Z )

    Dan- all of the best to you and your wife- You will be missed! Hope the webcrew keeps us updated on your new adventures!

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