This is your chance to check out some of music’s rising stars! Performances are included in festival admission. We have tables and chairs set up in front of the stage, but you are more than welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Please be courteous and pick a spot that won’t obscure the view of others.
Click here for a printable music schedule or scroll down for complete details.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9:
Honey Compass – McGuffey Lane – Duece n a Quarter – Big Gills Blues and his Funky All Stars
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16:
Luv Loc Experiment – Eleyet McConnell – SpikeDrivers – Wayfarers
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23:
Guitar Gary Williams – Ladies of Longford – Meridith Evans With the LA Band Rhythm Section – Rayna Spears and Dana Farley
Honey Compass
September 9, 2023 – 1:00-3:00pm
A heartland favorite, Honey Compass has toured the Ohio region and beyond for 12 years. This duo plays many genres and eras by request, and has released a second album “The Collection” on all streaming platforms in May of 2023. Dan and Gina have opened for Little Texas, Canaan Smith and continue to bring sweet music every direction they perform.
McGuffey Lane
September 9, 2023 – 4:00-6:00pm
McGuffey Lane is a country rock band from central Ohio. In 1972 founding members Steve George Reis (bass/ vocals) and Terry Efaw (steel guitar/ gut string guitar/ electric guitar) were a duo called “Scotch and Soda”. When they added Bobby Gene McNelley (vocalist/ guitarist) they renamed themselves McGuffey Lane after the street of Steve’s Athens Ohio home. As their popularity grew they added Dick Smith (drums/ vocals) and Stephen “Tebes” Douglass (keyboards/ harmonica/ vocals). In 1977 McGuffey Lane started playing at Zachariah’s Red Eye Saloon and soon became the house band. At that point they added John Schwab (vocalist/ guitarist) who was opening for them as the sixth and final member of the original McGuffey Lane.
McGuffey Lane played at Zachariah’s through 1980. In August of 1980 they released their first self-titled album on Paradise Island Records selling 40,000 in the first three months. The album reached #1 in Columbus during the fall of 1980 which gained the attention of Atlantic Records. Atlantic released the album nationally on its Atco Label with sales of 175,000. During the early 1980’s McGuffey Lane was a national act touring with Charlie Daniels, the Allman Brothers, The Judds and Marshall Tucker Band. In 1981 they released their second album “Aqua Dreams” followed by their third album “Let the Hard Times Roll” released in 1982. In early 1984 Tebes Douglass was killed in an automobile accident returning home from a show in Dayton. They released their fourth and final album for Atlantic “Day by Day” and dedicated it to Tebes. After the release of “Day by Day”, Bobby Gene McNelley left the band to pursue a solo song writing career.
In 1985 McGuffey Lane went back to their Ohio roots playing clubs, concert halls, fairs and festivals. In 1986 they released “A McGuffey Lane Christmas”, a fundraiser for the Central Ohio Lung Association. In 1990 McGuffey Lane disbanded after a tour through the state and a last night at the Newport Music Hall. In 1993 they did a “one time show” at the Newport and in 1995 they released “Greatest Hits Live and More”. At that point McGuffey Lane regrouped featuring John Schwab, Terry Efaw and Casey McGowan from the 1980’s line up. They were joined by veteran Columbus area musicians including Molly Pauken (mandolin, acoustic guitar, vocals). In 1998 they released “Call Me Lucky” . It was during 1998 that current McGuffey Lane members joined the band. Randy Huff (drums/ vocals) joined in the summer of 1998 and Kevin Reed (harmonica/ vocals) joined at the end of 1998.
In 2001 McGuffey Lane organized the First Annual Zachariah’s Red Eye Saloon Reunion featuring themselves and other acts that performed during the Zach’s days. In 2002 they released all acoustic CD “Wood” which included popular concerts songs from the late 1970’s but never previously released. In 2003 the Zachariah’s Red Eye Saloon Reunion moved to Promo West Pavilion and has been held there (now Kemba LIVE!) every year since. Finally in 2006 after years of fighting with Atlantic over the rights to their first four albums recorded in the mid 1980’s, Rhino Records released them in 2 albums sets. The first self-titled album and “Aqua Dreams” in one set and “Let the Hard Times Roll” and “Day by Day” in the second set.
In 2010 McGuffey Lane released their 10th CD “10” on Lick Records which was co-founded by John Schwab. In 2011 “Bartender” from the “10” CD was released as a single. It reached #50 on the national country charts (Music Row Magazine). In June 2017 McGuffey Lane released their 11th and latest CD “Legend of the Red Eye” on Lick Records. In a review of “Legend of the Red Eye” Dave Culbertson writes: “If you like the “country” side of The Lane…you should love this one. It is an interesting mixture of originals and masterfully-done covers of some of the country and country-pop classics from a variety of artists…all well done…many times, better than the originals.” In November 2017 “Cowboys Like What Cowgirls Do” by Steve George Reis from the new “Legend of the Red Eye” was #1 on the Alternative Country Music chart. The 2023 Zachariah’s Red Eye Reunion was held on Saturday January 21st at Kemba LIVE in downtown Columbus Ohio to another capacity crowd.
McGuffey Lane’s history mirrors one of the songs from their 2002 “Wood” album. “I’ve been up and down and all around my head in the clouds and my feet on the ground. Don’t you worry baby don’t you worry about me. Cause I’ve survived everything that comes and goes. I still know which way that old north wind blows. After all these years I’m “Runnin’ Wild and Free”. McGuffey Lane is still going strong with the three original surviving members (Steve George Reis, Terry Efaw and John Schwab) in the band. McGuffey Lane still performs about 20 concerts annually. The Journey Continues and “It’s A Good Day”.
Duece n a Quarter
September 9, 2023 – 6:30-8:00pm
Deuce ‘n a Quarter is an award-winning band that has made quite an impression in the blues scene! As 2023 International Blues Challenge finalists, they have gained recognition amongst top blues acts and have earned themselves the title of one of the current notable bands. In addition, front-man Brian Peters was awarded the Lee Oskar Best Harmonica Player award in the 2023 International Blues Challenge. Original music is their forte and their sound has something for everyone, regardless of whether you prefer traditional blues or something more modern and upbeat. This is one band that should not be missed. Fans will tell you that seeing this act live is something special!
The members of Deuce ‘n a Quarter bring their unique individual styles together to form a powerful sound and an undeniable chemistry on stage. From Brian’s smooth vocals & original lyrics to Keith’s electric guitar riffs, each member brings something special that is sure to captivate your attention. With Tim’s keyboard licks, Brian’s harmonica solos, Ander’s hard-hitting drums, and Martin’s bass grooves you are guaranteed a blues show like no other. Stunning performances, Deuce ‘n a Quarter has it all!
Deuce ‘n a Quarter continues to capture the attention of audiences and will surely be making waves in the blues scene for years to come. With that in mind, it’s easy to see why this is one of the must-see blues acts right now. Don’t miss out on your chance to experience a Deuce ‘n a Quarter live show!
Big Gill’s Blues and his Funky All Stars
September 9, 2023 – 8:30-10:00pm
“This group has an amazing entertaining LIVE performance”, Dayton Daily News June 10, 2022. This is a show band and they know how to entertain an audience. They’re that type of band that will linger, in your minds and hearts as you drive home from the concert. This is truly one of Dayton’s premiere bands.
They have eight (very talented) members. Collectively there is over thirty years of experience. These guys play a variety of music from Jazz, R&B, Old School, Top 40, Santana, some Blues and a little Motown. The female vocalist in group sings songs from Jill Scott, Patti Labelle,
Natalie Cole, Gladys Knight and many others. Over the years this band has become a favorite, at Summer Music Festivals, Hollywood Casinos, Night Clubs and Private Music Venues. I hope you brought your dancing shoes and your party smile. All I can say is a good time awaits you. Please, go ahead let your hair down and just enjoy the moment.
Luv Loc Experiment
September 16, 2023 – 1:00-3:00pm
The luv locz experiment is a reggae infused funk’n soul band based out of Dayton, Ohio. The band was founded by Romair ‘Jay-vez’ Hicks andAnthony ‘Saxtone’ Arringtonin in 2016. Since it’s creation, the founders added an additional seven members to create a unique sound that brings the perfect energy for any occasion. From original music to their own twist on your favorite tunes, you will be taken away from your seat and transported to the islands to dance your troubles away. Come witness the funk in reggae soul live.
Comprised of eight members including: Jayvez Hicks (lead vocals, guitar), Ciam Carr (vocal, guitar), natural onyx (vocals, flute), Philip Hutchinson (trumpet), Chris Kennedy (percussion), Chris Shepherd (bass) all members are stars in their own right. Some of their musical inspirations include, Bob Marley and the Wailers, Arrested Development, Zapp, Steel Pulse, and Ohio players just to name a few. They released their first single “Luv Locz Official” march 2021 and followed it up with their debut album entitled ‘Honey’ august 2021 which includes 10 songs released under the label streetlight entertainment group.
Luv locz has shared the stage with international reggae artist like Chuck Fenda, and Mike Love. After releasing their debut album “honey,” the group recorded their sophomore album entitled “strange fruit” released april 28, 2023 exclusively only available on this site . The strange fruit album encompases numerous hits including new hit single luv riddem currently available on all music platforms, & black man by their very own natural onyx featuring the mau mau warriors. This is their first international release recorded in Jamaica at the infamous “tuff gong studios.
Eleyet McConnell
September 16, 2022 – 4:00-5:30pm
Immersed in a multitude of genres for over 40 years, Angie Eleyet possesses a talent that will captivate you from the first moment she sings. Fierce. Soulful. edgy. Her musical tastes are so diverse, yet you will hear the many influences in her sound from Beth Hart, Led Zeppelin, Heart, Janis Joplin, and Bad Company to Merle Haggard, The Eagles, and some gospel freats. Her stage presence will draw you in quickly and she takes you on a journey you will never forget.
Well-known to the local music scene Chris McConnell has developed his musical expertise over the last 50 years. He has years of experience in live performance, touring, and studio work. His journey as a musician began at the age of 10 and continued through the years in countless projects including winning a regional star search and a home-grown album with WTUE in the early 80’s. He has a passion for writing and is a strong vocalist in his own right.
Together, their ability to tell stories through their lyrics captivates listeners. Their chemistry is palpable whether playing in an intimate, storyteller-type venue or with a full powerful band. Their songs attract music lovers from all backgrounds
SpikeDrivers – 20th anniversary with special guest Megan Palmer
September 16, 2023 – 6:00-8:00pm
In 2003 a new sound sprang up in the Rust Belt; a raucous, down-and-dirty sound, an intoxicating and gritty sound that pulled people in droves to dance floors across the Midwest. That new sound was the bluesy, upbeat, country-fried rock ‘n’ roll of The Spikdrivers. Front man Jesse Henry’s unique and down-home song writing meets the electrified ruckus and wild precision of the backing band simiilar to what might have been if Louis Prima had led The Band. The band has four studio albums and three live records that brought their songs into the hearts and ears of listeners across the United States. The Spikedrivers can grab hold of an audience and turn them instantly to avid fans.
Wayfarers
September 16, 2023 – 8:30-10:00pm
Hailing from rural Southeast Ohio, The Wayfarers emerged onto the scene in early 2010 playing their own form of American Roots music. While much of their repertoire is drawn from the Appalachian tradition they revere, The Wayfarers fuse tight musicianship – centered largely by the fiddle – with the high energy that characterized early mountain music. With old-time radio shows setting the example, their style encompasses Appalachian dance music, traditional mountain fiddle tunes, and pre-bluegrass music of the 1920’s – resulting in a dose of nostalgic Americana. Their spirited approach to live performance is infectious, and people of all ages are drawn in to the sounds of thumping washtub bass, driving guitars, sawing fiddles, and rich harmonies. Whether it’s at a large festival or barn square dance, a rock venue or a busy street corner, The Wayfarers continue to carry this music forward with creativity and authenticity, making it contemporary and fun.
The Wayfarers have been featured on the national PBS television series “Song of the Mountains”, toured much of the Midwest and Southern Appalachians, released 4 studio albums, and have shared the stage with some of the biggest names in bluegrass & country music; including Ralph Stanley, Ricky Skaggs, Marty Stuart, Connie Smith, Dailey & Vincent, Lonesome River Band, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Rhonda Vincent, Marty Raybon, Jerry Douglas, and many more
Guitar Gary Williams
September 23, 2023 – 1:00-3:00pm
Gary D. Williams AKA Gary Guitar Williams has been playing guitar and performing for over four decades. The music bug hit me at 5 yrs old when I saw The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show. Even at a young age, I knew what I wanted to do with my life. Like all children, I wanted to be a fireman, doctor, or lawyer as well. That wasn’t in the cards though. I performed my first show with a no named band when I was just 11 or 12 yrs old. We played the same three songs all night long. In my teens, I was listening to Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, and many others. I played in many rock & roll bands from my teens into my early twenties. I was even in a new wave band called Skinz Ten. We were pretty successful and played the circuit of rock clubs, colleges, and other events I did a short stint in the military and when I got out, I was back at it again. I played guitar with Ohio Players founder and frontman Satch in Satch & Co. After sitting in with some older blues cats, I knew I wanted to play the blues and nothing else. I started attending blues concerts by Son Seals, Albert Collins, Koko Taylor, and Albert King. I met Snapper Mitchum .who at the time was the bassist for Son Seals. We struck up a friendship and every time Son Seals came to Dayton to perform, I’d go see him and Snapper. Fast forward by a few yrs. Snapper left Son Seals band and moved to Dayton, Ohio from Chicago. My friend the late John Buedel, his guitarist at the time was leaving the band. Snapper was recording his first solo album, Born In The Ghetto. Snapper asked me if I could play some slide guitar on a rack called Big Legged Baby. John Buedel and Tony Houston played the main guitars on that album and I came in and played some slide guitar on the album. I was asked soon after if I wanted to join the band. I accepted and soon began an awesome journey. I’ve played with Phil Guy [ Buddy Guy’s brother ] . Lefty Dizz, Luther Allison, Bobby Bobby Blue Bland, and too many to mention. We went from playing small bars to playing some great concert venues, festivals, and clubs. After seeing Stevie Ray Vaughn and Buddy Guy, I thought of starting a solo career. I had fallen out with Snapper over some business and personal issues. I left for a while and went out on my own. I eventually came back, but it was never the same. I eventually left for good after being with Snapper for 9 yrs. I’m forever grateful to Snapper and have remained friends with him to this day. We’ve even played together occasionally. Along the way, I hooked up with others such as Big Gill Blues, a local artist. I spent several yrs with harmonicist, singer, and songwriter Malcolm Gibson & The Mighty Juke. We played Jump and Chicago blues. I played guitar for The Cincinnati Blues Allstars for a couple of yrs as well. Grat band out of Cinci, Ohio. I’ve performed with many others as well as starting The Uptown Blues Players, and The Back Talk Blues Band. I’m most excited about my recent venture Westside Players feat Gary Guitar Williams. This is one of the best bands I’ve ever had. Steve Steinke Aka Mojo on drums, Blake Ferguson, guitar, vocals & harmonica. Bassist Mikaela Jones
Ladies of Longford
September 23, 2023 – 4:00-6:00pm
Celebrating 19 years of their special brand of music, the Ladies of Longford serve up a unique blend of Contemporary Celtic, Traditional Irish and fresh acoustic styles. They are most often defined by their superb vocal harmonies and excellent musicianship. They have performed on stage with several national and internationally known Irish artists including Chloe Agnew (Celtic Woman), Eileen Ivers (Immigrant Soul), Cherish the Ladies and Aoife Clancy to mention a few. From the living rooms and back yards of intimate house concerts to the huge sound stages of renowned festivals, this high energy all woman band shares it’s inspired gifts of melody and performance to a vast range of fans. The group consists of Hilda Doyle and her two daughters, Stephanie Doyle and Heather Doyle Fraser and Elizabeth Blickenstaff.
Why are they called Ladies of Longford? The Doyle family is originally from County Longford Ireland. They have five CD’s to their credit and individually each of these talented ladies have either solo CD’s and/or CD’s with the other groups. You can always purchase one of their great CD’s at a show or on their website.
Meridith Evans With the LA Band Rhythm Section
September 23, 2023 – 6:30-8:00pm
Meridith Evans is a seasoned professional vocalist whose music origins began growing up in Urbana, Ohio.
She performs locally at many venues and festivals throughout the Ohio area and has shared the stage with national artists such as Mint Condition, Eric Benet and Yolanda Adams to name a few!
She has surrounded herself with the best quality musicians for any event, be it duo, trio, quartet or full band.
Rayna Spears and Dana Farley
September 23, 2023 – 8:30-10:00pm
Reyna and Dana have performed together since May ’09! With well over 1500 shows together this duo has energy, style and talent!
Performing popular songs from the ’60’s to the present.