At this year’s Chicago Auto Show, Land Rover revealed the next generation Range Rover Evoque for the first time in the United States, and in grand Land Rover tradition, the show proved spectacular; featuring local artistry and talent from the worlds of music, photography and fashion.

Setting new standards of refinement, capability and sustainability in the compact SUV segment, the new 2020 Range Rover Evoque goes on sale this spring with an optional all-new 48-volt 296-hp mild-hybrid (MHEV) powertrain.

Chicago-based, brother-sister R&B artists, Solo and Jaime Woods provided a live soundtrack for the debut. Also in attendance were Angela Brantley and Rhea Fernandez, founders of Chicago-based luxury fashion brand, HERO/BLACK, and local photographer Trashhand.

After the event, we caught up with Jaime and Solo Woods to learn more about siblings’ lives in Chicago and their inspired music.

How did you get started as musicians? 

Jaime: I grew up in the church. My family joined three different churches over the span of my childhood, and my mother would want us involved, which often led to singing in a choir or praise team. The early church experiences definitely shaped my understanding of music and how singing can summon emotions in a unique way.

Solo: I was always around music from being in the church a lot growing up. As long as I can remember I’ve always had a strong sense for melody and harmony and I really loved how those elements came together thru the music played in the churches and choirs I experienced at that time. I eventually picked up piano and started to come up with my own songs.

Where does your love for R&B come from? Are there other genres of music that attract you?

Jaime: Growing up I could only listen to Christian music. Once I left home, old soul and new R&B were what I gravitated to first. Soul is my favorite; in my opinion, gospel singing shaped soul singing. You’re just giving it from your gut. There’s an undeniable realness that comes from singing from your gut, and it can soothe any critical ear. I also love Afrobeat, Soca, dancehall, blues, trap, some hip-hop, standard jazz, quartet, folk-- honestly anything that will get you in the feelings, or inspire you to dance.

Solo: What I really love about R&B music is the harmonies, melodies, song structure and how they all work together to express so much emotion. I also think it’s really interesting to see how the narratives of love and relationships were expressed thru R&B and evolved throughout time. Other genres of music I’m into are soul, jazz, some hip-hop, funk and rock.

What are some things you like to do in the city of Chicago? How do you each see the new 2020 Range Rover Evoque fitting into those activities and your lifestyle overall?

Jaime: I really love discovering restaurants, specifically in the West Loop. I live a ways from the West Loop, so the 2020 Evoque would be the perfect ride through my favorite dining section of the city. Its refined look matches the environment perfectly, and as I almost never travel alone, there’s space for company. Good times all around. 

Solo: I really love performing and going to shows here in Chicago. There are so many venues here in the city and riding in the Range Rover Evoque will have me showing up in style and feeling like a boss!

What are your thoughts on the new Range Rover Evoque?

Jaime: The 2020 Evoque initially looks similar to the model before, but when you focus on the details, a lot has changed. From flushed car handles to sleeker lines, it’s a clear visual representation of “less is more”. Refinement is the word that comes to mind, but not so refined that I couldn’t drive it. It’s a car that’s pretty versatile when it comes to who fits in the driver’s seat. I could see so many people I love in it.

Solo: I really appreciate the subtle but very effective updates to the 2020 Range Rover Evoque. I like that its a smaller SUV but still has so much space. The interior is probably my favorite part of the car. I love the sleek and modern design of the touch screens and how much you’re able to control with them as well.

What attracts each of you to the Land Rover brand?

Jaime: It’s always been one of my favorite brands. I’m attracted to SUVs, but the shape of Land Rovers is always unique, and sleek. I just always saw myself in the Land Rover brand.  

Solo: When I was looking up information on the Range Rover Evoque I saw that Victoria Beckham helped launch a special edition of the Range Rover Evoque. That really excited and inspired me. I thought it was so cool to see Land Rover collaborate with a Fashion Designer, former singer, and just overall amazing artist. I really appreciate Land Rover recognizing the value in an artist’s point of view. 

What are your hobbies and pastimes when you’re not recording or performing?

Jaime: If I’m not recording or performing, I’m either out dancing at some Afrobeat party, or I’m home taking a bath. I also really enjoy styling, and growing hair. Experimenting with black hair is so much fun! Traveling when I have time, and experiencing new places in a non-touristy way also makes me happy. 

Solo: Outside of recording and performing music, I love to spend time with my family, spend time my with my Bae, eat good food, talk about astrology and laugh A LOT.