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WELCOME TO SPREAD THE MUSIC 2021
2ND ANNUAL VIRTUAL FESTIVAL SUPPORTING
THE MICHIGAN MUSIC ALLIANCE ARTIST RELIEF FUND

We're so happy to have you tune in with us today to celebrate AND SUPPORT the hard working, talented musicians of Michigan.

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We had such an overwhelming amount of support last year and we are so thankful to be hosting the second year of the festival!  None of this could have been possible without your support and commitment to the Michigan music scene.  We raised nearly $40,000 last year and with your help we're confident we can reach our goal of $50,000 to help Michigan musicians who are in need after losing their primary source of income during the pandemic.

 

We'd like to give a special thanks to our partners: Third Coast Recording, La Luna Recording & Sound, Guitar Haven, Plymouth Rock Recording, The Detroit Music Awards Foundation, Littlite Task Lighting, Foundry, Seven Steps Up, The Listening Room, BlissFest Music Organization, 20 Front Street, and Crooked Tree Arts Center.

 

Watch the whole festival for free on Facebook live, right on the Michigan Music Alliance page. Now go make yourself comfy, sit back and enjoy all that Michigan music has to offer!

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OUR MISSION

Our mission is to provide Michigan musicians with accessible music business education programming and rich community building experiences that create lasting connection and collaboration opportunities. 

 

ABOUT US

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Michigan Music Alliance was created in 2019 as a direct response to the needs expressed by West Michigan artists. In July 2019, Executive Director Elle Lively hosted a Music Business Roundtable at Third Coast Recording Co. in Grand Haven, Michigan. The event was attended by 200+ local artists, engineers, promoters, booking agents, venues owners and other industry professionals. We asked the artists in our community what they needed to continue to build their music businesses into sustainable careers. This birthed the B-Side Sessions, a series of free music business education sessions focusing on specific topics anywhere from social media to publishing. The sessions run once a month, September thru April, featuring a panel of industry experts. In 2019, the events were held in studios and venues around West Michigan, but due to COVID-19, they occupied the virtual space in 2020. Going fully virtual has allowed MMA to bring free programming to more Michigan artists, all over the state -- increasing our reach.

 

In addition to free educational music business sessions, we are creating opportunities like beach clean-ups, musicians' yoga, and other social events to help artists connect on a personal level. It is our hope these events will facilitate lasting collaborations and support systems leading to a sustainable music community that focuses on what we all have in common: the love of music.

 

We also recognize the need to connect artists to local mental health resources and are working with professionals to create new programming that focuses on mental health as an artist. We aim to release these efforts in late 2021.

 

In March 2020, due to our own cancelled events and many local artists losing their primary source of income for an undefined amount of time, we launched the Michigan Artist Relief Fund and began to disburse funds raised to local artists. We were the second COVID-19 response fund launched in the nation specifically for self-employed artists. To raise funds and awareness, we hosted Spread the Music, a four-day fully virtual music festival that featured volunteer artists from all over the state. We raised $40,000 which was disbursed to Michigan artists who applied and qualified for funding. The Michigan Artist Relief Fund is slotted to reopen applications in May 2021, after the second annual Spread the Music Festival in March 2021.

 

We believe in "collaboration over competition" and the power of coming together. Our programming is free and available to all artists. Diversity fuels the spirit of the Michigan Music Community and Michigan Music Alliance. Our commitment to inclusion across genre, race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience drives us forward every day. Our goal is to bridge the gaps and create a flow of community, opportunity and knowledge throughout the entire state. Michigan Music Alliance is proud to be a fully volunteer-powered organization, with an incredible advisory board, team of volunteers and supporting partners.

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COVID-19 LIVE PERFORMANCE PLAN

As we broadcast Spread the Music performances this year, you’ll notice some of them are coming to you live from some of your favorite Michigan venues. We are thrilled to be bringing these intimate experiences to you from these beautiful stages. As COVID-19 continues to be a concern for live music lovers everywhere, we wanted to take a moment to address the safety measures put in place to keep our volunteers, staff, and performers safe. The health and safety of music lovers everywhere is our main priority.

 

Our goal is to provide a fun and safe experience for the venue, crew, performer, and virtual audience. No physical audience will be present at any of the shows. Our team worked with Seven Steps Up, 20 Front Street, The Listening Room, Blissfest Music Organization, and Crooked Tree Arts Center to create streamlined COVID-19 protocol for performers going live from these venues.​ 

 

In cases which bands could not safely gather during the time of the festival, we accepted sets that are pre-recorded at a time that allowed quarantining and other preventative practices. We encourage official CDC screening with questions like this before arriving, and quarantining, when applicable. We do not encourage large gatherings without proper social distancing and masking up. Performers were reminded to sanitize gear and stay safe. As a general practice for live streams, we ask that anyone not actively singing or talking is wearing a mask. 

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If you have questions about how we are combating COVID-19, please email Elle at director@michiganmusicalliance.org

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More information about COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html 

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Schedule

3.24 | Wednesday

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10:00 AM BEAVER XING

11:00 AM ROB CROZIER JAZZ ENSEMBLE

12:00 PM DANI DARLING

1:00 PM TAMI RENE

2:00 PM KRIS PRIDE

3:00 PM MIKE WARD

4:00 PM RUTH & MAX BLOOMQUIST

5:00 PM ANNIE & ROD CAPPS

6:00 PM SARI BROWN

7:00 PM LIVE FROM THE LISTENING ROOM

JESSI PHILLIPS (EIGHT BELLES)

KYLE RASCHE (CHAIN OF LAKES)

CAITLIN CUSACK

POLITICAL LIZARD

AUDREY PEARSON

10:00 PM LOKELLA

11:00 PM BOB ROWE & THE GREEN VALLEY BOYS

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3.25 | Thursday

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10:00 AM BENZING GRAVES COLLECTIVE

10:30 AM KIMBERLY MEGORAN

11:00 PM ASPEN JACOBSEN

12:00 PM JAI FEARS

1:00 PM PINTER WHITNICK

2:00 PM DIANA LADIO

3:00 PM ED & GRETCH

4:00 PM LIGHTING MATCHES

4:30 PM THE RYNE EXPERIENCE

5:00 PM JETTY RAE

6:00 PM DANIELLE COSBY & MAX BROWN

7:00 PM BLISSFEST PRESENTS:

LIVE FROM CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER

CHARLIE MILLARD

ELIZABETH LANDRY

BRUCE SMITH

ROBIN LEE BARRY

SEAN MILLER

CAROLINE BARLOW

HOLLY KELLER-THOMPSON

TBA

11:00 PM THE MARSUPIALS

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3.26 | Friday

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10:00 AM JUDY BANKER BAND

11:00 AM HANDGRENADES

12:00 PM DEDE ALDER

1:00 PM TREESKIN

2:00 PM JAH CONNERY

3:00 PM SHAWN BUTZIN

4:00 PM JROB

5:00 PM AARON JAMES WRIGHT

5:30 PM KANIN

6:00 PM ANI & KORA

7:00 PM LIVE FROM 20 FRONT STREET

MIKE WARD

TOM ALTER

JILL JACK

KAT STEIH

9:00 PM THE ACCIDENTALS

10:00 PM AFTER PARTY KONUNDRUM

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3.27 | Saturday

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10:00 AM WAKEFIRE

11:00 AM THE MOONRAYS

12:00 PM THE BRANDINO EXTRAVAGANZA

1:00 PM KATE HINOTE TRIO

2:00 PM DEEPFALL

3:00 PM KARI LYNCH BAND

4:00 PM INDIGO MOON

5:00 PM THE HAZEL JAMES BAND

6:00 PM VALENTIGER

7:00 PM LIVE FROM SEVEN STEPS UP

MEGAN DOOLEY

NICHOLAS JAMES

CARRIE MCFERRIN

SANDRA EFFERT

MAX LOCKWOOD

KAITLIN ROSE

NATHAN WALTON

10:00 PM JACKSON SMITH & VIN DOMBROSKI

10:30 PM JACK DROPPERS & THE BEST INTENTIONS

11:00 PM FLYLITEGEMINI

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3.28 | Sunday

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10:00 AM NORMAL MODE

11:00 AM NESSA MUSIC

12:00 PM IN THE BLUE JAZZ ENSEMBLE

1:00 PM THE MICKEYS

2:00 PM OVERDRIVE ORCHESTRA

3:00 PM LVRS

4:00 PM BARBAROSSA BROTHERS

5:00 PM THE BLUE PINES

6:00 PM THE GASOLINE GYPSIES

7:00 PM LIVE FROM THE LISTENING ROOM

MARK LAVENGOOD

LOREN JOHNSON

STOVEPIPE

EMILEE PETERSMARK

BEN TRAVERSE

HANNAH LAINE

9:00 PM BRIAN VANDER ARK

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Artists

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Brian Vanderark - Photo Credit - Jamie G
BRIAN VANDER ARK
OF THE VERVE PIPE
HOMETOWN GRAND RAPIDS, MI

Brian Vander Ark is the lead singer and songwriter for The Verve Pipe. His solo career includes four studio albums. In 2007, he created the Lawn Chairs and Living Rooms House Concert Series, and has played over 800 shows in the homes of his fans.  Brian also released an album of cover songs June 2016, and an additional album of songs written with actor/musician Jeff Daniels, released in the winter of 2017.  Brian is also a speaker, traveling the country throughout the year telling his story to financial institutions, schools, non-profits, and more. 

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VIN DOMBROSKI
OF SPONGE
HOMETOWN DETROIT, MI

Sponge has proven to be one of the Motor City's heaviest hitters after gaining international notoriety with their debut album "Rotting Piñata” (Sony). Emerging from Detroit with hits like "Plowed" and "Molly (16 Candles)" Sponge received massive airplay on radio stations from coast to coast and were in heavy rotation on MTV. Both “Plowed” and “Molly” hit #5 on Billboard’s Modern Rock Charts, catapulting “Rotting Piñata” to Gold, and ultimately Platinum status.

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JACKSON SMITH
OF PATTI SMITH
HOMETOWN ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI

Born from the rich musical soil of Michigan, guitarist Jackson Smith, son of poet and musician Patti Smith, has a timeless rockabilly style. He's shared the stage and studio with a wide range of incredible musicians; Patti Smith, Vin Dombroski of Sponge, Elton John, Leon Russel, Jeff Bridges, Karen Elson, Wanda Jackson, Sammy Hagar, and Nicole Atkins to name a few. Jackson currently serves as co-host of Songs from the Trail WVBI 100.1, a show broadcasted from Beaver Island that highlights all things related to Michigan music.

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THE ACCIDENTALS
HOMETOWN TRAVERSE CITY, MI

The Accidentals are gonna flip your wig, violins, cellos, guitars, drums, it's outrageous...Adam Duritz (Counting Crows)

The Accidentals are a female fronted, multi-instrumentalists, power trio. Their music is dynamic and intelligent, a blend of Neko Case lyrics, Jack White rock, and Queen dynamic. It’s edgy, indie folk-influenced, pop rock.

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Americana / Pop

Kalamazoo, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

AARON JAMES WRIGHT

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Aaron James Wright will rock all your feels with an eclectic mix of soulful Americana music.

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Folk / Americana / Singer-Songwriter

Chelsea, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

ANNIE & ROD CAPPS

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Annie and Rod Capps have established themselves as well-respected songwriters, musicians and performers, with three albums topping the Folk-DJ charts and as 2-time Kerrville New Folk Finalists. The Capps' sound meets at the intersection of Americana & Folk citing rock, jazz and bluegrass influences.

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Bayou Folk Rock

Bay City, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

BARBAROSSA BROTHERS

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While their biography says they hail from Michigan, one listen to Barbarossa Brothers suggests a musical philosophy with its roots much further south. Fans of The Tedeschi-Trucks Band, Little Feat, and The Wood Brothers will find a lot to love about this band. . Tapping into a shared love of the blues, gospel and the rhythms of New Orleans, BBros continue to craft their patented brand of 'bayou folk-rock'.

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Psychedelic Country / Folk / Funk

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

BENZING GRAVES COLLECTIVE

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The Benzing-Graves Collective is led by Austin Benzing (The Turnips, Balsam Brothers) and Hannah Rose Graves (Hannah Rose and the GravesTones.) Together they have over 20+ years of experience and have gathered the best musicians and friends they know to bring you a smooth blend of psychedelic country, folk, funk and soul that is sure to get you out of your seat and on your feet!

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Singer-Songwriter / Pop

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

CAITLIN CUSACK

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After sustaining a life-changing brain injury on her 26th birthday and the sudden loss of her mother on her 27th birthday, Michigan singer-songwriter Caitlin Cusack is finding healing through music and is driven to share it to inspire others to learn and grow from their own experiences. Caitlin creates catchy, singable melodies while incorporating vivid storytelling influenced by her upbringing in musical theatre, church music, and formal classical training. Amidst ear-worms you'll find yourself singing along to and bops to which you can tap your foot, her music explores life through love, loss, grief, and growth.

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Singer-Songwriter

Alto, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

CHAIN OF LAKES

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Kyle Rasche is a Michigan songwriter who has released music as Chain of Lakes since 2010. Building upon a string of albums, a critically acclaimed EP, and numerous collaborations - Chain of Lakes continues to garner attention for delicately delivering thoughtfully-crafted, heartbreaking songs.

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Contemporary Pop

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

DANIELLE COSBY

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Born into a musical family, a life wrapped up in music came very naturally - her voice is a mixture of authentic talent, refined with professional training. Learning to be malleable and versatile from a young age has given her the confidence to sing in many vocal styles, but if you let her run wild, you'll be swept away in her soulful strut. Her style and inspiration comes from her years as a cover artist; paying respects to the writing styles of everyone from The Doobie Brothers up to Sara Bareilles. In her debut album; Detour, attributes from pop, contemporary, and R&B blend together to create its unique sound.

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Contemporary Strings

Chelsea, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

DIANA LADIO

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Diana Ladio is a 5-string violinist, writer, and educator based in Nashville, TN. She co-fronts the electric strings ensemble, The Moxie Strings, with whom she's toured for 14 years, and taught enrichment workshops in hundreds of schools nationwide. In 2015 she began as the fiddler for long-standing Celtic rock band, The Elders, with whom she toured until their retirement. She is passionate about bettering the world through togetherness and music, and is spending the COVID months offering online courses, doing virtual visits in school string programs, and writing for Strings Magazine.

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Alt-Country

Kalamazoo, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

EIGHT BELLES

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Songwriter and vocalist Jessi Phillips creates inspired, subtle Americana music that pays respects to its influences but sounds like nothing but itself. If Harry Nilsson and Patsy Cline had a love child and left it in the forest to be raised by wolves, its cries would sound very similar to this music.

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Alt.Folk / Blues Rock

Kalamazoo, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

FLYLITEGEMINI

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From the first note to the last, FlyLiteGemini, play and sing every note with passion and intensity as they push aside the veil and travel through the musical ether to create a unique experience through repeating themes of love, hope, and the soul's journey through dark and light. Drummer Sam Rice and bassist Zach Potter form a driving rhythm section that will have you tapping your foot or hitting the dance floor, laying the foundation for Joe Chamberlin's Hendrix-like guitar solos and Nate Karnes classic rock keys. Drawing inspiration from some of the world's greatest rock and roll bands, mixing pop sensibilities with spur of the moment musical creations into their own original Alt-Folk/Blues Rock sound.

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Folk / Country / Bluegrass

Cross Village, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

HOLLY KELLER-THOMPSON

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A Cross Village native, best known for her music as "Kellerville" with cousin Lee Dyer, has made quite the musical journey. Starting with singing in cover bands, then on to a female duo called “Pinky Lee" performing on A Prairie Home Companion. A cowriter at heart, she works with "The Vermeers" recording albums as well as voice overs and character development for Matt Rasch’s animation projects. Collectively she has collaborated on 7 albums and counting. Leaning on the styles of folk, country, bluegrass, blues, and rock and roll, Holly has been sharing her voice for over 20 years wherever it can be heard.

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Hip-Hop

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

J.ROB

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J.RoB is an electrifying hip hop artist based in and from Grand Rapids MI. Telling his story and his message hoping to inspire and motivate those alike. You get to know J.RoB very well as he takes you on a lyrical journey through his path. Some acts J.RoB has opened up for over his career are Young Jeezy, T.I., Dave East, GZA, Royce Da 5'9, Currency, and Nas. You can find J.RoB's musical projects on all major streaming sites - "Peace of a King", "Good Aint Enough", and "Foreign Connections" with overseas producer Bato. If you listen you will get to know J.RoB very well.

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RnB / Pop

Detroit, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

JAI FEARS

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With an already impressive resume that includes credits as an award-winning dancer and choreographer, flourishing actress and national print model, Jai Fears (pronounced Jay Fierce) is no stranger to stardom and is ready to cement her place in the spotlight as the singer/songwriter she has always aspired to be. Growing up in Detroit, Jai was surrounded by the music of the legends of Motown. While that definitely created her spark, her flame was ignited by her musical influences Sade and Janet Jackson. Her organically-soulful sound straddles the genres of R&B and pop reminiscent of her influences, but make no mistake - Jai Fears holds her own

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Americana / Alt Country

Ann Arbor, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

JUDY BANKER BAND

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Rooted in 60s folk and vintage country, Ann Arbor singer-songwriter Judy Banker explores traditional acoustic music territory and intricately makes it her own. Taking cues from country heroes Loretta Lynn to Gillian Welch, Judy's expressive voice and intensely personal songwriting draws from her own life experience to evoke love songs, lamentations, and narratives with universal appeal. She continues to perform with Michigan songwriting legend, Jay Stielstra, whom she has played with for over a decade. Judy also plays in a duo with fellow songwriter Ed Dupas. Performing solo or with her full band (David Roof, Tony Pace, Brian Williams and guest artists) Judy leaves it all on the table.

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Alt Country / Americana / Pop-Rock

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

KARI LYNCH BAND

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The Kari Lynch Band is an accomplished Alt Country band based in Nashville, TN, originally hailing from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Talented singers, songwriters, collaborators and performers, the Kari Lynch Band knows how to deliver an exciting, powerful and unforgettable performance. Known for their powerhouse lead vocals and solid harmonies, dynamic live show, first-rate songwriting and undeniable talent for creating music that spans musical genres and resonates with listeners of all ages, they play hundreds of shows across the country each year, playing prominent music venues, fairs, festivals, concert series and special events.

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Folk / Rock / Acoustic

Midland, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

KIMBERLY MEGORAN

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Kimberly Megoran is a Michigan_ based singer, songwriter, and visual artist with multi-faceted talents that flow from her statuesque physical presence into creative branches spanning lyrical, musical, visual, and spiritual arenas that imbue audiences with a collective ambiance of well-being that attests to the healing powers embedded within the alchemy of her artistry. Kimberly exudes both a confidence and beatific nature within her live performances that is born from carefully mining the often _delicate contours of love and compassion.

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Alternative Rock

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

LIGHTING MATCHES

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Lighting Matches is an alternative-rock band based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Made up of musicians with a variety of musical backgrounds, Lighting Matches stays true to their roots while also setting fire to the lines and limitations of genre labels. Fronted by dynamic duo (and real-life couple) Matt Plessner and Rachel White, and backed by the talented Adam Parada and Kevin Packard, their debut album "Against The Flame" displays lots of what they are best known for: thought-provoking lyrics and tight harmonies.

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Indie Rock

Jackson, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

LVRS

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LVRS is a three-piece, female-fronted, proudly queer band from Jackson, MI. This indie rock group is the product of a decade of collaborative growth. In 2018, LVRS released their debut LP and followed this up in 2019 with an EP of unreleased tracks. They are carrying this momentum into 2021 with a new album called Sitting With the Unknown. Created based on pure intention, this full length showcases their genre blending qualities while staying true to their introspective lyrics.

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Indie / Folk Rock

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

MAX LOCKWOOD

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Songwriter, vocalist, and poet Max Lockwood channels the flair of Tom Petty and the eloquence of the Beat Generation's finest to create a sound rooted in songcraft and heartfelt lyricism and bound with elements of rock and roll, folk and pop. With full arrangements and rich poetic focus, the listener is led into a deep sonic landscape by songs that seek to uncover truths of love, adversity, and growth.

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Rock

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

NATHAN WALTON

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With a voice Lionel Richie of American Idol called 'a cannon', Nathan Walton is one of Michigan's most promising up-and-coming singer-songwriters. True to the spirit of Bob Seger, Rare Earth and Grand Funk Railroad, Nathan's music delivers a level of compassion, understanding and depth well beyond his years. A Golden Ticket Winner on American Idol Season 3, Walton has recorded and mastered albums at Jack White's Third Man Record Company and at Third Coast Recording Co. in Grand Haven, Michigan. He has also lent his voice to bands like Stone Soup and the Broken Teeth, Devin and the Dead Fretz, and The Revolving Door.

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Jazz / Lo-fi Beats / Instrumental

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

NORMAL MODE

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Normal Mode has performed under many names: The Dutcher Snedeker Trio, The Ian Thompson Trio, etc. But in 2020 the trio decided to work under the new name: Normal Mode. Performing original music from all 3 members, the group moves between elements of Jazz, LoFi Beats, and experimental to form a groove focused genre that moves alongside you in a motivating and positive manner.

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Indie

Detroit, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

PINTER WHITNICK

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Pinter Whitnick is a duo based in Detroit, MI.

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Folk

Okemos, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

ROBIN LEE BERRY

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Robin is a seasoned, energetic, dynamic, folksinging songwriter who has been around northern Michigan for a long time. Her motivation comes from somewhere deep in the earth flowing like spring water on a direct path to your heart thru the marrow of your bones. Coupled with her smokin’ guitar work she parachutes in…landing with refreshing passionate perspective. Robin debuted at Blissfest TWO in 1982 and continued performing around northern Michigan as well as vocally fronting the Equinox, The Bay Area Big Band and collectively worked with Jazz North, revisiting Blissfest’s stages several times thru the last 4 decades.

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Heart-Centered Motown Soul-Folk

Harbor Beach, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

SARI BROWN

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Sari Brown is a poet, preacher, and priestess of song who curates dreams and cultivates beauty in the fertile gaps between cultures. Drawing on her life as an anthropologist and activist in South America and as a musician and pastor in Michigan, she is equal parts child of Motown music, mystical chants and Andean folkloric dance. Using textured soundscapes and vulnerable storytelling, her songs create holding spaces for healing, self-awareness and practices of abundant life. After a decade-long hiatus from recording, Sari is working on a new album, "The Holy Broken Heart," an exploration of our healing journeys and how to embrace their mysteries, paradoxes and incompleteness. It is due out in May of 2021.

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Dark Folk Music (Tom Waits x Stephen King)

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

STOVEPIPE

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Stovepipe is a one man band and singer-songwriter with nearly 20 years of performance under his belt. His music combines the best of outlaw country, folk, and punk, with lyrics that cover everything from love to werewolves to ghost stories and a whole lot more in between. He has performed at renowned opera houses, hole-in-the-wall bars, city streets, and haunted houses. Playing drums with his feet and other instruments with his hands, Stovepipe has built a loyal following for his raw, energetic live shows and critically acclaimed recordings. As he will tell you in an elevator, "My music sounds like Tom Waits, Springsteen, and Stephen King made an album together."

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Folk / Funk / Loop / Jam / Comedy / One-Man-Band

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

THE BRANDINO EXTRAVAGANZA

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The Brandino Extravaganza is an energetic, versatile, charismatic loop-station-based one man band whose sound is difficult to pigeonhole. He uses his loop station to build songs piece-by-piece in front of your very eyes, and into your very ears, with the help of his guitar, cajon, beatboxing skills, saxophone, and smooth singing voice. "A musical mixologist" he has been called, playing a blend of folk, funk, comedy, latin-infused, old-timey and classically influenced arrangement of both his own music and an eclectic mix of cover songs. You never know quite what you'll get at a Brandino show, but the most common remark afterwards is "I was just smiling the whole time!"

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Rock

Traverse City, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

THE MARSUPIALS

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Old but new; unknown yet familiar. The cosmic brotherhood that forms Michigan based band, The Marsupials have evolved their sound into a searing hot, dance-infused journey of chaotic poetry & ethereal grooves. Their 'no rules apply' approach to music has resulted in a signature sound unique to them. Rock, funk, blues, ska, reggae and even Hungarian gypsy find their way into their productions. Formed in 2014 by Tai Jaxx Drury and Alex Riesenbeck, they have teamed up together with bass player Trevor Pinney and keyboard wizard Jimmy Olson to combine their wealth of talent and experience. All those years of musical knowledge came together in the form of their 2017 debut album, 'Mellow Emergency'.

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Indie Rock / Folk

Lowell, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

THE RYNE EXPERIENCE

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Born out of Lego ashes that never ignited, the Ryne EXP was born with singer songwriter Ryne Clarke and his friends. Anywhere from mindless static to lush pop tunes. The experience is what you get out of it.

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Rock (With a 60's Vibe)

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

VALENTIGER

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From Midwestern landscapes of Michigan, and the vinyl collection of parents' basements, are Valentiger. Carefully crafted and effortlessly orchestrated, Valentiger's collective confidence is as deserved as it is tongue-in-cheek. Their infusion of wit and humor with an enlightened cultural outlook creates a product as reflective of their individual personalities as it is cloaked in surprising wisdom.

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Singer-Songwriter / Pop

Bloomfield Hills, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

ALI MCMANUS

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Ali McManus, 24 years, from Bloomfield Hills, MI is an up and coming singer/songwriter. She's written countless original songs and released her debut album, Unbreakable, in February 2018. The album was produced in LA with A-List producer Jack Douglas, who was John Lennon's producer and many more.

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Americana / Folk Pop

Detroit, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

ASPEN JACOBSEN

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As a young singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Aspen Jacobsen aspires to emotionally touch people through her lyrics and soulful voice. Her music has been described as Folk-pop, Alternative Country and Americana. Her latest album, Love Each Other Right, was released in November 2019. In 2020, two songs from her latest album were finalists in prominent songwriting competitions.

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Folk

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

BEAVER XING

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Life partners Stacy & Jonathan Beaver making great dam music together, to bring joy to the world.

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Country (Classic & Traditional)

Dorr, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

BOB ROWE & THE GREEN VALLEY BOYS

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One of the longest running bands in Michigan and members of the Michigan Country Music Hall of Fame, Bob Rowe and the Green Valley Boys are widely known for their fine blend of traditional country, folk, and gospel music.

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Folk / Roots

Northern Michigan

HOMETOWN

GENRE

CAROLINE BARLOW

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Caroline is a singer, songminer, and songwriter based in northern Michigan and raised (mostly) in North Carolina with a few years in the south of France sprinkled into her childhood. She has spent 15+ years playing her guitar and singing songs everywhere from her living room, to campfires, local cafes, festivals, and Mexico. Caroline performs solo and with several Michigan-based collaborations such as The North Carolines, Hand in the Hopper, and The Lonely Lovers. In addition to playing music, she has a passion for being a fan of your band and bringing cultural opportunities to her community.

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Singer Songwriter / Indie Rock / Americana

Alanson, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

CHARLIE MILLARD

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From Michigan’s northern lower peninsula, Charlie Millard has developed a unique sound, voice and thought-provoking lyrics/poetry of his own, with tones of an indie-Americana style that is reminiscent of a 60s/70s folk-rock, singer/songwriter. He has performed at festivals and venues across the Midwest and Canada with his band, and continues to give a musical experience, like small movies for the ears.

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Singer-Songwriter / Percussionist

Traverse City, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

DEDE ALDER

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I value all the people that want to look closely at our lives and our future and change it. What is the it? It's the disfunction, the imbalance, the ugliness, the shadow, and the beauty. It is our job to dive deeply into these subjects and give witness, and ultimately, if we do our job right, come back with the silver lining of hope. Come back with the spark that lights the fire in other's souls. That spark that reminds us of the things we used to know and our values as children. The things that disarm us. At least, this is why I make music.

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Funky Glam Rock

Harbor Springs, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

DISTANT STARS

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Jakey, Tai, Andy, and Al are DISTANT STARS, a funky/sexy/strange rock n' roll from Michigan. Wild enough to raise the roof, charming enough to rival your favorite boy band. Unbridled bravado and flamboyant showmanship take center-stage, backed by a sonic hybrid of classic rock, electronic pop, and psychedelic funk, performed with a jazzy mentality and a punk rock attitude. Iconic cover songs are peppered throughout a set full of original music in a show that leaves the audience laughing, singing, and wondering 'are these guys from another planet, or am I?'

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Folk / Singer-Songwriter

Traverse City, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

ELIZABETH LANDRY

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Originally from the very northern tip of the Mitten, Elizabeth Landry, previously known as E Minor is now based in Traverse City Michigan. Although Elizabeth is well known in many parts of the Mitten, her music is well traveled. Touring nationally and playing many well-known venues. Elizabeth can be seen playing with her trio including Caul Bluhm and well-known steel guitarist Joe Wilson (Joe Wilson Trio, Steppin' in It). With a 2018 album release under her full name Elizabeth Landry, Titled The River. Produced by bandmate Joe Wilson and recorded at The Holy Wah Studio in Maple City, MI. Whether Elizabeth is playing solo or with the band, you're sure to get lost in her sweet, smoky melodies, and storytelling lyrics.

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Indie Rock

Detroit, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

HANDGRENADES

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Handgrenades epitomize a never-ending and invigorating state of musical evolution. Not content to rest on their laurels or remain complacent in a sound that serves them well, the Detroit quartet constantly pushes their aesthetic. Credit this to three of the four members being songwriters, challenging one another in the creative process.

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Straight Ahead Jazz

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

IN THE BLUE JAZZ ENSEMBLE

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In 2016, In The Blue started creating music and playing gigs in Detroit. Recently, In The Blue Jazz Ensemble has been building a reputation as a great local talent in West Michigan. In The Blue Jazz Ensemble provides exciting live jazz music, including arrangements from the great American songbook, hard bop, latin, and jazz fusion!

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Americana / Garage Rock

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

JACK DROPPERS & THE BEST INTENTIONS

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Heart pounding, foot tapping, ear ringing, hip swiveling, lyric howling, arm flailing, rock & roll from Grand Rapids, MI. Jack Droppers & the Best Intentions deliver anthemic songs full of dynamic energy and reflective lyrical storytelling. Two LPs, two EPs, and a load of singles into this four-year journey, the Michigan band continue to craft a musical experience that enthralls fans whether they are standing in the crowd or lying down with headphones on. Let's go for a drive, are you getting in?

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Indie Folk / Singer-Songwriter

Charlevoix, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

JETTY RAE

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Jetty Rae is a singer and songwriter originally from Northern Michigan. Jetty garnered the attention of JetBlue when she played at the opening of their new Terminal at JFK International Airport. Jetty Rae shared the stage with Sarah McLachlan and Miranda Lambert at Lilith Fair in Detroit where she was handpicked by Sarah McLachlan and Terry McBride as the featured local artist. You can also hear Jetty's music in a number of TV commercials for brands such as Microsoft, PetCo, Truvia, Nabi Tablets, Ben & Jerry's, Amazon.com, and more.

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Americana

Kalamazoo, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

KAITLIN ROSE

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A storyteller in the purest sense of the term, (Kaitlin) Rose bares her buoyant soul with songs of personal struggle and strife, set aloft by her powerful voice. Soulful folk singer, songwriter & guitarist and front woman of Kaitlin Rose & The Band of Thorns, Kaitlin is also an instructor for the Kalamazoo Academy of Rock.

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Folk / Punk

Ann Arbor, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

KAT STEIH

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Kat Steih, a songwriter and vocalist with folk rock roots, is a tall cool drink of water with a splash of contrasts: delicate finger-picking with punk strumming; her timeless voice with innocent humor; masterful songwriting with intuitive musicality. She released an album of originals called "Hymns of the Huron" in 2019 and is currently releasing monthly singles from her upcoming sophomore release "Songs from a Far Away Galaxy (and my bedroom)".

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Electronic Dance Music

Detroit, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

KONUNDRUM

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I first began my music journey at Ferris State University when I bought my first small controller in 2013 in my freshman year of college. At the time, I just did small little gatherings in my dorm lobby as "DJ Basshead". Not too long after I started, I got into electronic music and learned how to mix. In 2016, I started my path as a producer and adopted the name "Konundrum". Later on, I started DJing bigger events such as big fraternity parties, throwing a halloween themed rave with a couple DJ friends, being local support two years in a row for big Michigan EDM artists like Nortroniks and Marcutio, to becoming resident DJ at my local bar/club. In December 2018, I released my first Moombahton EP, "Who is Konundrum".

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Alternative Rock

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

LOKELLA

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Progressive alternative rock with catchy hooks and a hint of jazz, LOKELLA is a 4-piece outfit hailing from Michigan. In 2016, the group announced their formation by dropping a surprise 4 song full visual EP titled 'The Worst Of' and has since followed up with the single 'Set To Flame' and two more studio albums: 'Shedding Skin' and 'Censory Overload'. Sharing the stage with Andrew W.K., Seether, Every Time I Die, Stray From the Path, Beartooth and Fall of Troy, the band refuses to set their sights any lower. Jennifer, Evan, Chris and Josh offer synergy in their live charismatic and energetic performances entrancing the audience to seek out more.

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Bluegrass

Grand Rapids, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

MARK LAVENGOOD

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Mark Lavengood is a walking, talking ray of sunshine. His resonant energy and sparkling smile light up every stage, every studio, every room, RV and embrace he enters. A talented multi-instrumentalist, Lavengood specializes in dobro & steel guitar, both of which he's played for over a decade, while also being well-versed in guitar, bass, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, drums, and a variety of percussion instruments. Due to his lovable nature, boundless optimism, warm embrace and cavernous-yet-soft-and-delicate blue eyes, Mark garnered the nickname "Huggy Bear" early in his career, and upon meeting, one understands why. There's simply no denying that this is a very special soul.

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Singer-Songwriter

Kalamazoo, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

MEGAN DOOLEY

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Born and raised in Kalamazoo, and best served with a glass of whiskey, Megan Dooley has been performing in and out of West Michigan for 21 years. Her music is an intelligent blend that bridges the gaps of soul, blues, folk and americana. Drenched in modern day grit and served with a generous helping of attitude, Dooley is also a multi-instrumentalist whose songwriting skills have captured audiences near and far, and recently earned her the 2019 title of "Best Solo Performer" in the region by popular vote and Revue Magazine, not to mention named "First Lady of Kalamazoo's Music Scene" also by Revue in 2015, as well as 6 Jammie nominations in the area. Dooley's shows are always different, always fun, and always surprising.

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World / Celtic

Ann Arbor, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

NESSA MUSIC

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Celtic mythology is the genesis for this band's name and its attitude. Nessa's leader and principal vocalist, Kelly McDermott, embodies attributes of Nessa, the Celtic goddess. Transformed from a sweet, unassuming lass to a firebrand, Nessa went about turning bad situations to good. This is a goddess that any women's empowerment group would love to have as its leader.

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Indie Folk

Ferndale, MI

HOMETOWN

GENRE

OHLY

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Influenced by his older musical brothers as well as The Head and the Heart, The Avett Brothers, and Van Morrison, Detroit based Ohly released his heartfelt six-song self-titled debut EP in October 2017 and included an emotionally-charged, introspective package of musical tales focused on relationships, loss, and growth. He brings Americana touches (like the banjo), but it's the delicate, and emotional, vocal layers that enamor the listener. Ohly released 2 singles in 2020 and plans to release an album in 2021.