Night after night...show after show, The Messengers leave audiences dancing, singing and screaming for more. The sound, based on their incredible harmony and raw power, tears through the best pop, rock, and modern country! A huge set list that includes everything from Miranda to Mumford...from Queen to Pitbull. Sing-a-long favorites follow unexpected medleys that mix classics with today's current hits. Every show is different, and every night offers another chance to get the message.
Don't Rock The Jukebox is A One Of A Kind Tribute Presented By Chicago's #1 Country Band - Hillbilly Rockstarz.
This Tribute show takes you back on a journey through time, hit after hit of feel-good country music. You know, The Good Stuff! Featuring Iconic artists featured in the 80's 90's 00's Shania twain - Garth Brooks - Tricia Yearwood - George Strait-Diamond Rio -Reba -Tim McGraw-Wynonna-Faith Hill- Dolly Parton-Kenny Rogers-Brooks and Dunn- Willie and Waylon- Johnny Cash-Dixie Chicks- LeAnn Rimes- Alan Jackson - Alabama- Tracy Byrd, just to name a few!
Tickets: $15 in Advance | $18 Day of Show
Ages: 21+
E-Mail [email protected] For Tables
Expansive artistry framed by relatable storytelling and warm sonics” (Earmilk) Vincent Mason has honed his craft for songwriting since grabbing a guitar just a few short years ago. Growing up right outside of Atlanta in Roswell, Georgia, he realized very early on how much he loved lyrics and quickly became fascinated with the art of writing a good song.
Fusing his influences like Parker McCollum and John Mayer, his southern country side blends perfectly with the singer-songwriter's pop sensibilities - creating a fresh new sound that’s becoming incredibly popular in the genre. Amassing over 120 million streams across platforms, the 24-year-old taps into his life experiences to curate a narrative true to country storytelling. His smash hit from his latest EP Can’t Just Be Me, “Hell is a Dance Floor” has been a huge breakout moment, garnering millions of streams. The song has received support from major editorial playlists, including Spotify’s Hot Country and Apple Music’s Country Risers, among many others. This summer, John Mayer included his latest release, “Heart Like This” on his Sirius XM show - speaking positively about hearing the track.
He toured alongside Parker McCollum, Ashley Cooke, and Niko Moon and has been direct support for Gavin Adcock’s entire summer and fall tours. This summer he was on the bill for several dates with Luke Bryan as well as a slot opening for Miranda Lambert. With more music on the way, this passionate writer and artist sets out to stay true to his influences and his story to deliver a powerful message through his music to his growing audience.
Expansive artistry framed by relatable storytelling and warm sonics” (Earmilk) Vincent Mason has honed his craft for songwriting since grabbing a guitar just a few short years ago. Growing up right outside of Atlanta in Roswell, Georgia, he realized very early on how much he loved lyrics and quickly became fascinated with the art of writing a good song.
Fusing his influences like Parker McCollum and John Mayer, his southern country side blends perfectly with the singer-songwriter's pop sensibilities - creating a fresh new sound that’s becoming incredibly popular in the genre. Amassing over 120 million streams across platforms, the 24-year-old taps into his life experiences to curate a narrative true to country storytelling. His smash hit from his latest EP Can’t Just Be Me, “Hell is a Dance Floor” has been a huge breakout moment, garnering millions of streams. The song has received support from major editorial playlists, including Spotify’s Hot Country and Apple Music’s Country Risers, among many others. This summer, John Mayer included his latest release, “Heart Like This” on his Sirius XM show - speaking positively about hearing the track.
He toured alongside Parker McCollum, Ashley Cooke, and Niko Moon and has been direct support for Gavin Adcock’s entire summer and fall tours. This summer he was on the bill for several dates with Luke Bryan as well as a slot opening for Miranda Lambert. With more music on the way, this passionate writer and artist sets out to stay true to his influences and his story to deliver a powerful message through his music to his growing audience.
The Sunflower Headlights are a motley band of wayward Chicago musicians who deliver folk rock tunes influenced by the sounds of the 1960's and 1970's. They play regularly at venues throughout the Midwest, including many popular restaurants, bars, breweries, community centers and concert halls.
Founded several years ago by Chicago Singer/Songwriter Edward William Ryan, The Simple Remedy has grown into one of the most reliable acts on the music scene.
Also featuring Singer/Songwriter Laura Patricia on Vocals, Michael Pentz on Lead Guitar, Mike Smith on Bass Guitar and Andy Wilmoth on Drums!
The band is a true melting pot of musical influences and keeps the audience guessing as they glide through multiple genres as well as their own original music during their live performances.
Nashville singer-songwriter and guitarist Brandon Birkedahl and his band, "The Beer Joint Jumpers,” are known for packing dance floors with their honytonkin', beer drinkin', good timin’ music, a timeless sound rooted in American folk, country, honky-tonk and early rock n' roll.
Originally from Washington state, Brandon’s earliest influences came from his grandfather’s record collection. Cutting his teeth on 50's rock n' roll and classic country music, he began shaping the sound that now defines his style, evident in his dynamic live shows, recordings and songwriting.
In 2016, Brandon made the move to Nashville, Tennessee, where he currently resides performing covers, originals, and taking requests from the crowd five nights week for up to four hours each night. You can find Brandon on stage every Friday and Saturday night with The Beer Joint Jumpers at the world-famous Robert’s Western World. He is also the co-frontman and lead guitarist of Nashville’s premier Honky-Tonk band, The Cowpokes.
Howdy, y’all! Join us at Carol’s Pub for Chicago’s country-western-inspired drag show, "Y'all's Brunch," where all are welcome! Get ready to kick up your boots with sensational performances by Chicago's finest drag superstars. Hosted by the fabulous Coco Sho-Nell, Season 4 of Camp Wannakiki, and the delightful Mini Pearl Necklace, "The Jewel of the Cumberland Clam." Expect Entertainment, delicious food, refreshing drinks, laughter, and prizes, all at Carol’s Pub!
The Eskimo Brothers are a high energy honky tonk trio based out of Nashville, Tennessee. This reckless and manic show has been battle tested and polished from over 300 shows a year, both in the honky tonks of Nashville's historic Lower Broadway and and monthly shows in Memphis on Beale St.
This year, we’re raising the bar with a perfect blend of classic traditions and exciting new surprises to make this the most unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Chicago yet. From early morning revelry to extended hours of non-stop fun, we’ve crafted the ultimate Chi-Irish-inspired event that’s perfect for everyone.
Get ready to don your green and gold, gather your crew, and join us for all-inclusive party options packed with great vibes, festive drinks, and unforgettable fun. Whether you party for a few hours or make a day of it, this is Chicago’s must-attend St. Paddy’s Day event!
4 Hour Reservations ALL Include:
• Miller Lite & Coors Light
• White Claw Premium Vodka Bloody Mary, Screwdriver, and Cocktails
• Angry Orchard Hard Cider
• Other Seltzer Options
• THC Beverage Options for those looking for a bubbly and social buzz with no hangover
• Breakfast Buffet
• Specially Priced Shots
• Guaranteed Entry
Odds & Ends:
• Table Reservations are available for an additional fee
• Gratuity is NOT Included in your package
• Food and Drink Package ends when your 4 hour reservation expires
For more Information please email [email protected]
21+Event. Space Limited. Price Subject to Increase.
The dictionary defines sorry for partying as “the act of apologizing for having an awesome time”. If that is the case then the Chicago based cover band Sorry For Partying will have you apologizing all night long! This high-energy, five piece band will have you on your feet dancing from the very first note to the last. With a set list covering over six decades of music and all types of genres, it is guaranteed that you will not only know, but will be singing along with every song. Come out and see for yourself and we’ll make it a sorry for partying night! For more info visit www.sorryforpartyingmusic.com
Free Event
Ages: 21+
We're opening early at 2pm for the NCAA Tournament!
A dynamic performer, playing 100-150 shows per year, Kevin Daniel’s music has been described as “radio ready with enough darkness creeping in around the edges to appeal to fans of Jason Isbell & Tyler Childers.” On his two early EPs, his 2019 debut album Things I Don’t See, and his 2021 follow-up, Been Here Before, Daniel showcases a masterful ability as a songwriter to seamlessly incorporate bits of rock, soul, country, blues, roots and Appalachia into thoughtful examination of pain and awakenings, visceral and spiritual. A big-voiced crooner with a heart of gold, Kevin strikes a chord with “his raw and soulful, Chris Stapleton-esque timbre.” [Music Connection] His latest release, ‘The Life & Adventures of Kevin Daniel’ is out now on Organic Records.
Free Event
Ages: 21+
We're opening early at 2pm for the NCAA Tournament!
Windy City Rev & The Hootenanny Band emerged from an established group that has eight online releases, performed multiple times overseas, and all over Chicagoland, including Joe’s Live, Bub City, and Joe’s on Weed St. The band is fronted by singer-songwriter Rich “Rev.” He’s a triple threat on vocals, guitar, and harmonica. Rich was given the nickname “Rev” as a young musician because of his revved-up style of music and exciting live stage shows. He started out performing in Denver, where he began rabble-rousing on stage in a wide variety of bands at the early age of 19. He eventually ended up in Chicago, where he has performed alongside many of Chicagoland’s top-ranked musicians, and he fronts the popular band “Windy City Rev Ups.” His commanding stage presence and gift for songwriting will be on display at Carol’s Pub on Friday, March 21, 2025.
The band’s sound is driven by a thundering rhythm section, full-throttle guitars, and soulful harmonica playing. Their songs feature a kaleidoscope of cross-country and blues rock tunes, both covers and originals. Their music takes inspiration from classic/Latin rock legends and country music icons. The band is currently working on a new all-original release. Be sure to check out their social media and music that is streaming worldwide.
Diamondback has been a popular staple of the Chicago Country Music scene for quite some time. We bring our female fronted, multi-instrumentalist, tight harmonied party to clubs, private gatherings and festivals throughout the Midwest. We serve up a patented mix of Classic/Prime Country, Americana, Country Rock and New Country that’s guaranteed to have folks singing along and joining the party from the first song. Our extensive song list promises something for everyone.
Diamondback remains committed to bringing Classic Honky Tonk music to the urban masses!
Waylon Wyatt is an 18-year-old Folk/Country artist born and raised in Hackett, Arkansas. Inspired by red-dirt contemporaries Tyler Childers and Zach Bryan, Waylon began writing songs at fifteen, workshopping them after long summer days spent working with his father on construction jobs. Waylon recently released his debut EP, Til The Sun Goes Down, now having received over 100M combined streams cross-platform. He is in the process of recording his second body of work, and is touring with artists such as Dwight Yoakam, Dylan Gossett, and Sam Barber throughout the rest of the year.
Texas Female Artist of the Decade and reigning Female Vocalist of the Year, Bri Bagwell, is a force to be reckoned with on the Texas Country scene. Bri has seen her audience grow and diversify as she has progressed through the musical landscape. From her first full-length release, Banned from Santa Fe in 2011, to her 2022 release Corazón y Cabeza (Heart and Head) Bri has masterfully commanded the stage for over a decade with her rousingly fun live performances and trailblazing artistry while creating a loyal and passionate fan base.
Bri grew up in Las Cruces, NM but now lives in New Braunfels, TX. From the time she was writing poems in her childhood bedroom, to teaching herself how to play a dusty old piano, to getting her first taste of honky-tonk life singing in her twin brothers’ band at age 14, to playing her first solo show in college, Bri has integrated music into each stage of her life.
Born in Fargo, North Dakota, Austin Plaine is an independent singer/songwriter now residing in Nashville, Tennessee. Follow social medias for current updates on live dates & music releases
I don’t know where I could even begin…
I grew up thinking being a songwriter was only a pipe dream for a quiet midwest 90’s kid, until it quickly became a reality and just as quick, hit me square in the face...hard. Like a puck to the jaw. I had signed a record deal right out of college. I got dropped immediately after one album; the same album that includes the song "Never Come Back Again", which has garnered over 22,000,000 streams on Spotify alone, and was also featured on the hit tv show "Nashville". I had shot myself in the foot and lost a promising publishing deal shortly after moving to Nashville. I went on tour and went so deep in the red, I had to move back home for a time just to settle my debts. I distanced myself and questioned if I was cut out to make music a career. I lost confidence in myself, my writing, and the world. I sat alone for a long time.
But even in the darkest hour, a glimmer of light from the smallest flame can open the floodgates to something much brighter.
Tim Swann Band will provide a night of covers & originals that range from country, rock, folk, & soul. Every night is a fantastic night full of energy & entertainment as we take turns heckling one another & laugh & sing the night away. 3/29/25 will be an amazing night!
Dream House Concert Series: an intimate acoustic VIP experience featuring Adam Doleac. Each ticket will include a post show meet & greet with Adam Doleac and an autographed poster.
Critically acclaimed singer songwriter and rising Country music star, Adam Doleac, is taking the Nashville scene by storm with his unique signature sound. Born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Doleac initially chased his big-league dreams with a baseball scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, but soon realized his true calling was creating music. Self-taught on multiple instruments, Doleac became proficient in guitar, drums, and piano and soon decided to leave the sports world behind to pursue a music career. After a self-written song posted on YouTube propelled him to viral success and helped him secure a publishing deal, Doleac made the move to Nashville and spent several years penning lyrics for notable names including Kane Brown, Lainey Wilson, Dan + Shay, Nate Smith, Gabby Barrett, Darius Rucker, Hootie & the Blowfish, and more. In 2017, his self-titled debut EP produced GOLD-certified song “Famous” and was followed by his debut album, Barstool Whiskey Wonderland, released in 2022. Doleac’s most recent album, about: TIME, was released in 2024 and takes the listener through some of his milestone moments in life with the universal message that time is love, and how we spend it is a reflection of who (or what) means the most to us. Now, Doleac has hit the ground running in 2025 with “Bye Heart,” “Dream House” and more music to come. With north of half a billion on-demand audio and video streams to date, Doleac’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have won over a legion of fans and audiences across the globe. The critically acclaimed Country troubadour is poised to continue the momentum toward an undoubtedly monumental year. Doleac is currently gearing up to release more new music, and fans can expect to catch Doleac on the road as he continues to solidify his place as a leading voice in Country music.
The Mackenzie O'Brien Band has headlined fests in four states, appeared numerous times at country thunder and opened for a long list of country stars. The young band mixes country music along with rock, pop, emo and dance floor numbers as well as original music! The Band most often plays between Chicago and Madison where they have developed a reputation as a party driven band! Mackenzie also travels back and forth to Nashville where she writes, records and performs. She is about to release her third album overseen by Fate Entertainment and Daredevil Production Nashville. Her original music has combined for over one million Spotify streams!
Zach Bryan recently called Chasen Wayne, “The only fuck’n legend left in Texas.” Willie might have something to say about that.
Of course that’s hyperbole, but listening to Chasen’s new album Strange Places, you kind of understand what Zach was getting at.
Wayne is also the guy who books Austin’s Honky Tonk SAGEBRUSH
along with slinging out authentic honky tonk tunes like “No Stranger” when he can.
- Kyle “Trigger” Coroneos
(Strange Places Album Review 2024)
Canaan Cox is the definition of a triple threat - artist, actor and dancer. His music is a fusion of contemporary country, pop and a hint of rhythm and blues, which is no surprise as he grew up in a musical household. Originally from North Carolina, his father blasted Conway Twitty records while his mother toured the southeast with her band, and his seven sisters ensured he had a healthy dose of pop music. Cox went on to earn his BFA in Musical Theatre from Catawba College which allows him a unique musical perspective that influences everything he does today, from writing original music to his performance during live shows. Cox moved to Nashville in the fall of 2016, and began playing the downtown bars on Broadway.
During a chance encounter in 2021, Cox met radio and television personality Bobby Bones, who loved his hustle and invited Cox to appear on his show, reaching over 9.2 million listeners. His last single “As You Leave” (January 2022) received critical acclaim with marquee playlisting on Spotify including New Boots, Wild Country, Breakout Country, Next from Nashville, Apple’s New in Country, and was highlighted in Amazon’s Breakthrough Country playlist.
Following the outpouring of support he received on the Bobby Bones Show, his song was spotlighted on the Country Top 30. This momentum led Cox to a phenomenal year of streaming, seeing incredible 10x growth in 2022. His latest project “End Up In A Song” highlights his craft as a songwriter and sounds that blends his unique styles of music. In addition, Cox is currently touring internationally through the US and UK touring his album Let It Run
From corner taverns to national stages, The White Saddle Band has, and continues to play them all. Prime Country to Yacht Rock, Merle Haggard to The Righteous, Everly and Doobie Brothers, nothing escapes a dip in the Country Fryer. Songs you know, and most importantly, songs you like. Tight harmony, top shelf players and a VERY cool songbook make a night with The White Saddle Band quite a party!
Patrick Bale & The Pale Ales is a Chicago-based country. Formed in 2016, their shows are known for their high energy setlists featuring classic country, red dirt, and rock and roll covers intertwined with their own original material. In 2020, they released their debut album “Cheap Shot,” showcasing their signature style of storytelling. They have opened for well known touring acts such as Chris Cagle, Corey Marks, Granger Smith, and played to packed houses at iconic venues like Old Crow Smokehouse, Basecamp, The Forge, and Reggie’s Rock Club.
Howdy, y’all! Join us at Carol’s Pub for Chicago’s country-western-inspired drag show, "Y'all's Brunch," where all are welcome! Get ready to kick up your boots with sensational performances by Chicago's finest drag superstars. Hosted by the fabulous Coco Sho-Nell, Season 4 of Camp Wannakiki, and the delightful Mini Pearl Necklace, "The Jewel of the Cumberland Clam." Expect Entertainment, delicious food, refreshing drinks, laughter, and prizes, all at Carol’s Pub!
Ontario native, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Meghan Patrick is as real as they come. She playfully blends her tough-as-nails exterior with a casual, cool narrative - showing the world that women can be sexy, strong, intimate, and gritty. Whether it’s composing skillfully crafted songwriting or tearing it up on tour - listeners are invited into her world and very quickly become lifelong fans. A back-to-back CCMA Female Artist of the Year whose accolades also include 19 CMAOntario Awards, she has proven that she has what it takes to create music that her fan base adores. With the release of her deeply personal project, Golden Child, she has reached a point where after 8 years in Nashville, she can peel back even more layers and be even more authentic.
Ashland Craft firmly established her unique brand of country music with the release of her debut album, Travelin’ Kind. Named as one of CMT’s Next Women of Country and Pandora’s Country Artists to Watch, Ashland has earned high praise from critics and fans alike. American Songwriter declares, “There’s a new country badass in town, and her name is Ashland Craft,” noting “star quality flying out of her boots.” Additionally, Nashville Lifestyles adds, “With equal parts sass and strength, she’s poised to be a major voice in country music.”
From small towns to the big city, the Trailer Park Twisters are ripping up all your favorite country tunes and laying waste to prefabricated homes in a 10-mile radius. Formed in 2008 by Paul Cicciarelli, the band features dynamic guitar playing complimented by swelling pedal steel and soaring vocals. From Johnny Cash to Miranda Lambert they’ve got it covered.
Jason Mayer is a touring country singer-songwriter, based out of Omaha, NE! He has been performing live for over 15 years, and is currently on a nation-wide tour! Over the past 3 years, Mayer and his band have played nearly 400 shows, covering 23 different states and 97 different cities! He has opened for some of the biggest names in music, including Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, Carly Pearce, Rodney Atkins, and many more!
Mayer has released 4 original albums with various bands over his career, and 8 singles as a solo artist. He has written 26 different songs that have received radio airplay. His most recent single “Over You” was released in January of 2025 and has already garnered rave reviews and consistent radio airplay. A full-length album is in the works for later in 2025!
The tapestry of Southern music in America is rich, vivid, and diverse, and Adam Hood is an artist who embodies this substantial musical lineage each time he straps on his Telecaster or picks up his pen. Rooted in his Opelika, Alabama upbringing, Hood’s musicality and soul-stirring lyrics are guided by the wisdom earned from thousands of miles spent on the road chasing musical adventures from coast to coast.
Hood’s deep yearning to share his take on country music has led him to craft a sound uniquely his own—what he calls “Southern songs.” It’s a soulful and profound version of the genre that blends elements of assorted styles, reflecting the authenticity of Southern culture and the way he grew up. “It’s Southern music,” Hood relates. “The soulful side of Southern music, the country side of Southern music, the genuineness of Southern culture, it’s what I’ve always done.”
Though Hood initially made waves as a performer, it’s his songwriting that has truly set him apart over the past decade. An impressive roster of artists, including Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Whiskey Myers, Cody Jinks, Travis Tritt, and Riley Green, have recorded Hood’s songs, adding a new layer to his formidable career. Yet, his own recorded and touring output remains a vital part of the broader country music landscape.
Michelle Billingsley wraps charmingly cutting lyrics in boisterous acoustic strumming and along with her dryly dark sense of humor and a (whip)smart-assed vocal delivery, it all sounds a bit like Emmylou Harris went through the looking glass. She'll remind you of the familiar songs you heard playing on the radio in the back of Dad’s old truck cruising down back roads. She’s got a little bit of honky tonkin’ country up her sleeve, and a dusting of folk on her boots. Her shows are undeniably fun—genuine, irreverent, unique and fearless.Billingsley’s new debut album for Western Myth Records, Not the Marrying Kind—produced by multi-instrumentalist Matt Brown—is an Americana gem. Out of the gates, Brown made the sage choice of putting legendary producer/engineer Brian Deck (Modest Mouse, Josh Ritter, Iron & Wine) behind the boards—and the drum kit—for the sessions.The resulting record's intimate, moody vibe draws you in close with your guard down, and once you pause long enough to get your head around the songs, the depth of Billingsley’s talent comes sharply into focus. It’s a deceptively heavy record, yet somehow her fantastic whimsy mixes with black comedy and brisk little melodies that make the journey all the more powerful.
“Imagine a country music universe built around the moody experience of Dwight Yoakam’s song 1000 Miles From Nowhere, or the dour music of 90’s Chris Issak. Then infuse it with just enough 80’s-inspired New Wave goth to make it even more unique and nostalgic." (Saving Country Music) Aaron McDonnell has toured nationally as well as in Ireland and the UK, and is a mainstay at Austin's iconic White Horse Honky Tonk. He has released a series of acclaimed albums and is currently signed to Feels So Good Records. He was also named as one of the "4 Must See Honky Tonk Bands in Austin" by Austin Monthly magazine in 2025.
“In the crowded Texas country field, McDonnell stands out as one of the most natural talents to rise out of Austin in years.”
– Peter Blackstock, Austin-American Statesman / Co-founder – No Depression
The Talbott Brothers, hailing from the heartland of Imperial, Nebraska, embody the heart and soul of Americana with their blue-collar grit and unapologetic authenticity. Grounded in the character of their rural upbringing, brothers Nick and Ty Talbott have built a name for themselves with their soul-stirring lyrics, sibling blood harmonies, and rich melodies that represent the ebbs and flows of life.
Their 2017 track “We Got Love” from their debut album Gray propelled them to national recognition, filling venues across the country. Building on that success, Ghost Talker (2019) and Letters (2022) captured the attention of major outlets — Rolling Stone praised their sound as “cinematic folk-rock for open highways,” Billboard highlighted their “haunting brotherly harmonies,” and The Boot touted them as a must-listen “for fans of John Mayer, Mumford & Sons, and Jason Isbell.”
Inspired by returning to their roots, their upcoming album, BORDERLANDS, is set to release May 2, 2025.
Ward Davis is an acclaimed Americana musician and songwriter known for his soulful voice, poignant storytelling, and deeply authentic songwriting. Hailing from Monticello, Arkansas, Davis combines traditional country roots with a modern edge, creating music that resonates with both honky-tonk purists and contemporary audiences.
After moving to Nashville, he gained recognition as a talented songwriter, penning tracks for country icons like Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and Trace Adkins. His solo career took off with the release of his debut album, 15 Years in a 10-Year Town (2015), which featured heartfelt songs that explore themes of love, loss, and redemption.
Davis’ follow-up albums, including Black Cats and Crows (2020), solidified his reputation as a powerhouse in the Americana and outlaw country scene. The album showcases his gritty lyricism and dynamic vocal range, with standout collaborations alongside Cody Jinks and other luminaries in the genre.
Known for his raw, emotionally charged live performances, Ward Davis has cultivated a devoted fanbase, drawing listeners with his blend of vulnerability and rugged charm. Whether performing solo or with a full band, his music captures the essence of timeless country storytelling, infused with a contemporary sensibility.
With a career defined by authenticity and a commitment to his craft, Ward Davis remains a vital voice in modern Americana and country music.
When Fancy Hagood was just 17 years old, he got in a car he barely knew how to drive and moved to Nashville, a city he’d never visited, with the dream of becoming an openly queer country artist. He had gumption, and hustle. “Every year I'm on some artist to watch or up and coming list, and I've been on that list for the past decade and I just keep going.” This drive, resilience, and indomitably joyful spirit color Hagood’s sophomore solo album, American Spirit, out on October 25.
American Spirit marks, in Hagood’s view, both a return and an arrival, an embracement of his past while moving forward into his future. On his debut album, 2021’s Southern Curiosity, which found the singer blending country with the sounds of glam rock and confessional pop, he says, “I fought really hard about it being labeled a country album, because I had just been so jaded by the conversation about who belongs in country and what is country.” After Southern Curiosity found a home on country playlisting and with country audiences, Hagood knew his next step would be “to really go back to my roots and that original dream of wanting to be a country artist.”
Hagood’s reclaimed joy permeates American Spirit; despite everything he’s been through, sorrow has no home here, though vulnerability, gratitude, and resilience do. Life may, sometimes, be hard and disappointing and confounding, but most of the time, we can survive it. And if we’re lucky, and we have the right people by our sides, we can thrive again. Collaborating with producers John Osborne (The Brothers Osborne, Ashley McBryde’s Lindeville), Jarrad K (Ruston Kelly’s Dying Star), and Jeremy Lutitio (Joy Oladokun, Devon Gilfillian) and co-writers Caitlyn Smith, Mindy Smith, Sean McConnell, and Mary Steenburgen, Hagood has curated a rich atmosphere of trusted collaborators and friends who not only allow him to fully express his artistry and emotions, but lift him up in the process.
On American Spirit, Hagood’s lyrics traverse all the complex emotions of being alive, from experiencing the many stages of grief for loved ones lost (“Good Grief”) to reminding oneself that pain is a part of the human experience (“Isn’t That Life?” featuring Michelle Branch) that can’t be avoided, only moved through (“Through”), where, hopefully, you’ll find a new version of yourself on the other side (“Ever Really Ready”).
A native of Bentonville, AR, Hagood now calls Nashville home. His debut album, 2021’s Southern Curiosity, which was heralded as for its “lively, unapologetic, [and] buoyant” (Rolling Stone) and “dreamy, nostalgic” (The Boot) songwriting, was nominated for Best Country Record at the 2022 Libera Awards. In 2022, his single with Kacey Musgraves, “Blue Dream Baby,” was praised by Elton John, stating, “We need more people like Fancy.” An artist who values community, collaboration, and inclusiveness in music, 2024 found Hagood guesting on Orville Peck’s highly anticipated duets album Stampede in addition to releasing Smothered, Covered & Fried, a 5-song EP in collaboration with She Returns From War, Jamie Wyatt, TJ Osborne, The Kentucky Gentlemen, and Brooke Eden.
From the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville to Colorado’s famed Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and countless destinations in between: Singer-songwriter Mark Mackay delivers electrifying performances to unite listeners with captivating anthems and blazing musicality.
Touring relentlessly across the country, he has reached a loyal multi-genre audience for his guitar-driven American Music. In addition to headlining slots at concerts, fairs, festivals, and tours, Mark has opened for hard rockers REO Speedwagon, Richie Sambora, Ted Nugent, and Night Ranger; plus platinum country hitmakers Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, Old Dominion, Gary Allan, and Eli Young Band.
Mark Mackay fans will have plenty of new music to savor. After an ambitious series of indie full-lengths and EP’s, the Nashville-based artist has recently inked a deal with Bungalo Records/Universal Music Group. The lead single, “Meant for This” finds Mark expressing a heart-filled testament enveloped in the aural textures of harmonica, slide guitar, and a beguiling chorus.
Wild Earp slings original country & western music that gives a respectful nod to the masters of the past and a defiant scoff at the purists. Touching on just about every aspect of roots music, Earp brings the listener through the desert, the mountains, and the honky tonks with clever lyricism that mixes humor, heartache, and sinful living. He’s backed by The Free for Alls, a talented and fun-loving cast of characters who give life and depth to the music. Their hootin’ and hollerin’ enthusiasm is matched by their good taste and broad talents, and they leave nothing off of the table.
Jake Dodds has been touring both regionally and nationally for the last 11 years as an independent country music artist originally from Indiana. Dodds fell in love with the music his grandparents watched on Saturday nights on TNN and often sung around thegame table on Sundays before Nascar came on. In 2021, Jake’s song “She Goes to Work” climbed to #11 on the iTunes Country Chart and#49 across all genres on iTunes propelled by its viral status on TikTok. With millions of views on TikTok and near 3 million streams the song resonated deeply with Nurses, Military personnel and many other front line essential workers. Not trained musically Jake began singing in Karaoke bars in college that led to theconfidence to join and then start his own band. Learning by watching and doing Dodds quickly hit the road playing bars, clubs and dance halls across the country playing shows and has been used as a support act for some of modern country music’s biggest names like Morgan Wallen, Kane Brown, Dustin Lynch and many more along the way.
