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Artists in The Scene

Startz and Endz

Startz & Endz, fronted by the energetic Bubba Startz, is a South Dakota-based band known for their upbeat and uplifting music. They deliver high-energy performances that get audiences dancing and create a festive atmosphere. Their sound, described as "Modern Gypsy Rock," blends various influences.

Bubba Startz is also the driving force behind DBS Entertainment and "The Scene," a podcast and community highlighting talented artists and business owners. Through "The Scene," he fosters collaboration and content creation within the arts community. Startz & Endz have been actively performing, including summer shows at venues like the Custer Beacon, and have released music such as "Building Today," capturing their lively stage presence in music videos.

El Pablo 1X

El Pablo 1X is a multifaceted artist from Memphis, TN. As an independent musician, published author, and freelancer, he founded Blacksheepkid Music LLC and spearheads the "blacksheepkid" movement. His work, including his music, aims to inspire and motivate those who have overcome adversity. El Pablo 1X offers a range of services, from music production (songwriting, vocal tuning, mixing) to brand development (website development, branding management, digital marketing, social media promotion). He is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their goals and advance their careers.

Clayton Ryan

Clayton Ryan, a Minnesota-bred singer-songwriter, has cultivated a distinctive voice on stages across the Midwest. His music blends old-school sounds with Midwestern storytelling, creating a universe rooted in blue-collar sensibilities. Ryan's debut album, Ghost Town, explores Stapleton-esque soul and neo-traditional outlaw themes.

Ryan's work as a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist in LA and Nashville has led to placements in NASCAR, Walker, NFL Sunday Night Football, and The Outdoor Channel. He has shared stages with artists such as John Morgan, John Michael Montgomery, and Koe Wetzel.

Ghost Town has garnered over 100,000 streams, with the title track featured on The Current's "Top 89 Tracks of 2024." His Whiskey Jam debut earned a rare encore. Since August 2024, Ryan has toured extensively, documenting his journey as a DIY artist in his YouTube series, With The Wild Man.

Johnny Hastings

Johnny Hastings is a guitarist and musician based in the Black Hills of South Dakota. He performs solo acoustic sets and with his band, Stillhouse Down, alongside Caleb Buum, Kaleb Britton, and Will Waller. Hastings is known for his blues-inspired sound, drawing from traditional blues and Americana influences.

Hailed as one of South Dakota’s brightest rising guitarists, Hastings crafts a blues experience with soulful vocals and virtuosic lead playing. Johnny Hastings & Stillhouse Down embody the sound of western South Dakota. They are currently working on new original tunes for release in 2025.

Ruthie Craft

Ruthie Craft is a Seattle-born, Austin-based singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals and emotive lyrics. Her music blends pop, soul, and R&B, creating a sound that is both lively and heart-wrenching. Craft's journey began as a way to cope with Tourette's syndrome, which she discovered singing temporarily alleviated. This led her to pursue music professionally, drawing inspiration from artists like Adele and Fleetwood Mac.

She reached Hollywood Week on American Idol in 2019, which motivated her to develop her songwriting skills. Since then, she has collaborated with various artists and producers, sharing stages with notable names like Sir-Mix-A-Lot and Shakey Graves. Ruthie received a Sonic Guild grant in 2024 and released her debut EP, Sound of Blue, in September 2024. Her goal is to create music that connects people to their emotions and offers comfort.

Tyler Herwig

Tyler Herwig is an indie country and pop artist known for his emotionally charged music and high-energy performances. Hailing from Mankato, Minnesota, his sound blends anthemic melodies with heartfelt storytelling, drawing influences from U2 and Keith Green. His debut single, "Living in the Last Days," climbed to #8 on the country charts, marking him as an artist to watch.

Tyler is a prolific performer, playing over 250 shows a year, and is scheduled for over 280 shows nationwide in 2025, including an international tour in the UK. He is dedicated to creating music that offers hope and connection, often drawing inspiration from his family and past struggles with addiction. His upcoming single, "Slow Ride," captures the magic of slowing down and soaking in life's simple moments, blending country storytelling with a modern pop vibe. With a growing fanbase of over 65K on social media, Tyler continues to share his story and connect with audiences through his music.

Mark Joseph

Mark Joseph is an American soul musician known for his relentless touring and heartfelt performances. Since his 2017 album American Soul, he has explored a diverse range of American musical styles, from blues and country to psychedelic rock. His fourth full-length album, Palisade Peach, continues this journey, showcasing his soulful voice and guitar skills.

Joseph maintains a rigorous schedule, performing over 200 shows a year across the United States. He consistently releases high-quality albums, absorbing influences and developing his unique artistic voice. His vocal range is often compared to Gregg Allman and Chris Stapleton, characterized by a raw, genuine quality. As a guitarist, he draws inspiration from Eric Clapton and Jerry Garcia, blending blues traditions with a modern sensibility. Palisade Peach features collaborations with notable musicians, including Stanley Behrens and Jerry Jemmott, further solidifying Joseph's place in the American music scene.

Shalisa

Shalisa, known online as “The Only Shalisa,” is a country artist and creator with roots in Alberta and a blossoming career in British Columbia. Branding herself as a “Country Girl Gone Rogue,” she blends classic country with soulful, genre-bending influences to tell stories of resilience, self-trust, and empowerment. A nominee for Top 10 Female Artist of the Year at the BCCMA, she’s also part of the Billboard 500 Club and has released singles including “Rather Be A Cowboy.” Beyond the music, Shalisa uses her platform to speak candidly about overcoming narcissistic abuse and encourages listeners to trust their instincts, know their worth, and celebrate their strength. Active on Instagram and TikTok, she connects with fans through performances, storytelling, and community-driven events in the BC music scene.

Samantha Grimes

Samantha Grimes is a Minnesota-born singer/songwriter known for her Americana sound, blending folk, rock, blues, and country influences. Her unique style includes playing guitar left-handed and upside down. Grimes gained recognition with her debut EP in 2006, showcasing her versatility and emotional depth.

Praised for her lyricism and storytelling, Grimes draws inspiration from artists like Travis, Alanis Morissette, and Florence & The Machine. Her popular songs include "Wendy Darling," "Wicked Mortals," and "Trainwreck."

Grimes is the Midwest Country Music Organization’s 2024 Maverick of the Year and a member of the Midwest All-Music Hall of Fame. She won Entertainer of the Year for the International Songwriter Association in 2023 and 2024. She is also a multiple-time nominee for Entertainer of the Year and Songwriter of the Year from the ISSA organization.

Lee Klett

Lee Klett is a country music singer-songwriter from Iowa, known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Heavily influenced by traditional country music, he weaves personal experiences into relatable songs. As a lead singer for the band The Boys, Lee has released two albums, "Self Debut" and "Low Life," showcasing his songwriting abilities and earning a dedicated fanbase.

Lee has shared the stage with notable artists such as Trace Adkins, Collin Raye, Sawyer Brown, and Diamond Rio. In 2023, he received the Ambassador Award from the Midwest Country Music Organization (MCMO) for his contributions to the country music scene and dedication to promoting the genre. Lee continues to captivate audiences with his authentic sound and passion for country music.

Royce Johns

Royce Johns is an Iowa-based country singer-songwriter known for his neotraditional sound with folk and songwriting influences reminiscent of Roger Miller, Tom T. Hall, and John Prine. He has released an EP and two albums comprised of other songwriter's songs and co-writes, including "Truckstop Souvenirs" (2018) and "One Last Two Step" (2020). His album "Thank Ya Kindly," released in 2023, features original songs and showcases his calming and articulate delivery.

Johns has opened for notable acts such as Sammy Kershaw, Deana Carter, and Sawyer Brown. He has collaborated with songwriters like Tony Haselden and Bobby Bare. His music blends classic country elements with a modern touch, delivering heartfelt stories and relatable lyrics. Johns' work ethic and dedication to his craft have earned him recognition in the Midwest country music scene.

Roseland

Roseland is a rising country duo from the Iowa–Illinois border, crafting songs rooted in small-town grit, Midwestern heart, and real-life stories. Formed in 2023, the pair quickly found their voice and audience, earning multiple nominations at the Josie Music Awards—including four in 2024 at the Grand Ole Opry—and continuing with additional nods in 2025. Members of the CMA, ACM, and Nashville Songwriters Association, Roseland blends modern country energy with classic storytelling, delivering heartfelt originals and dynamic live shows across the Midwest. With growing radio support and a steady release slate, they’re building a grassroots following one stage, one song, and one honest lyric at a time.

Jessica Loobey

Jessica Loobey is a Nashville recording artist who was raised on a cattle ranch in South Dakota. Her passion for country music began in early childhood, influenced by her parents. She honed her skills by joining a local duo before forming her own band. In April 2022, she released her first Nashville record, featuring accomplished musicians who have worked with renowned artists like Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, and the Steve Miller Band.

Loobey's albums, "Three Chords and the Truth" and "Double or Nothin'," showcase her songwriting abilities and have garnered over 200,000 streams on Spotify. Recent achievements include signing a developmental deal with SSM Records, receiving three nominations at the Josie Music Awards, and performing on Broadway in Nashville at venues like Kids Rock’s Honky Tonk and Tootsies. She continues to tour and plans to release more music.

Humbletown

Humbletown, comprised of Morgan Carnes and Dylan Lewis, hails from the prairie and is gaining national attention with their album, "The Path I Chose to Walk." Their music features haunting vocal harmonies, melodic clawhammer banjo, and high-energy flatpicking guitar, showcasing their songwriting talents.

Dylan started with piano at a young age, later transitioning to guitar and bluegrass. Morgan's musical journey included various instruments before finding her passion in the banjo and clawhammer style. Their individual experiences in folk-punk and bluegrass bands converged to form Humbletown.

Their album title is derived from Dylan's song "Vines," reflecting the theme of staying focused on one's chosen path. Dalton Coffey, who recorded and played on the album, highlights the duo's intimate performances as a standout feature. Humbletown's unique blend of musical styles and heartfelt songwriting continues to resonate with audiences.

Asher

Asher is a metal/emo artist from Atkins, Arkansas, turning small-town grit and personal loss into cathartic sound. Blending serrated guitar textures, driving drums, and raw, confessional vocals, Asher channels resilience into songs that feel like survival anthems. After a run of DIY releases, Asher leveled up in 2024–2025 with a steady output including Apocalyptic, Behind the scenes, and the 2025 projects Ambition, Have faith in me, and Letting go. Each track dives into isolation, faith, and the fight to keep going, balancing heaviness with hooks that linger. For Asher, music isn’t just a passion—it’s a lifeline—and that urgency pulses through every chorus and breakdown. With roots in Arkansas’s tight-knit scene and a growing digital footprint, Asher is building a catalog that’s unfiltered, self-made, and meant to be felt loud.

Tristen Schofield

Tristen Schofield, born and raised in Philip, South Dakota, comes from a musical family, inspiring him to bring authentic music to audiences. Since 2018, he has crafted relatable music enjoyed across the Upper Midwest. He has shared stages with Kenny Feidler, The Lowdown Drifters, Pam Tillis, and John Riggins. Schofield's songwriting talent was recognized in 2023 when he won the Regional Songwriting Competition at the Wildwest Songwriter Festival in Deadwood, SD. His music reflects gritty, real-life experiences, resonating with a wide audience.

Samuel John

Samuel John is a country rock artist from Braham, Minnesota. He found his musical inspiration through his mother, a pianist and vocalist, and his brother, a drummer for a touring country band. He is joined by Jake Abel on bass and Brandon Nelson on lead guitar, whom he met at open mic nights in Minneapolis. John Wander completes the lineup on drums.

Samuel John released his debut singles "Set Me Free" and "Enjoy the Show" in 2024, followed by the EP "Minnesota Goodbye". His music is influenced by artists like Cody Jinks, Eric Church, and Tyler Childers. Samuel John aims to create an authentic country rock sound, drawing from a wide range of influences from classic country to metal, punk, rap, and rock. A memorable moment in his career was his debut full band show at Ryders Saloon in 2023. He hopes to release a full-length album and play the main stage at First Avenue in Minneapolis.

Chris Graves

Chris Graves is a Black Hills songwriter and performer whose powerhouse vocals and gritty guitar work fuse the soul of blues with the storytelling grit of folk. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, he’s built a reputation for high‑energy sets that move from smoldering ballads to foot‑stomping grooves, drawing listeners in with raw honesty and dynamic range. Onstage, Graves pairs road‑worn narratives with melodic hooks and percussive guitar, creating a live sound that feels intimate and thunderous at once. Whether headlining local rooms or sharing the bill with regional favorites, he crafts crowd‑connecting performances rooted in authenticity, groove, and emotion. For Chris, songs are lived‑in—torn edges, bright sparks, and the hard-won resilience of the Hills all stitched into every chorus.

Alyssa Keiser

Alyssa Keiser is a recording artist with a growing catalog of original music. Her recent releases include the single "Crimson" (2024) and a string of singles in 2023 and 2024, such as "Dreams," "Till Tomorrow," "Want You Back," "Sink or Float," "Seatbelt," "Moscato," "Life's Not Fair," and "Machine" (featuring SMBDY ELSE). These tracks showcase her evolving sound and songwriting abilities. Keiser continues to develop her artistry, captivating listeners with each new release.

Brad Morgan

Brad Morgan is a country music artist and songwriter hailing from Manning, Iowa, now based in Nashville, TN. His music reflects his Midwest roots, blending traditional country influences with a fun, energetic performance style. Since 2011, he has released a full-length album and two EPs, including the self-titled "Brad Morgan" EP in 2015. His 2019 single, "Grain of Salt," charted at number 11 on the New Music Weekly Chart, with its music video garnering over 110,000 views in its first week.

Morgan's achievements include winning the Midwest Country Music Organization's (Midwest CMO) "Male Vocalist of the Year" in 2022 and 2023, and the Josie Music Award for "Male Rising Star" in 2023. He also won the Midwest CMO “Video of the Year” for “Day One” in 2024 and the Josie Music Award for “Modern Male Country Vocalist of the Year” in 2024. He continues to build a dedicated fanbase through live performances and consistent releases.

Devon Sants

Devon Sants is a musician known for capturing beauty in darkness. His unique style, dubbed "sinner folk" or "Roots Rock," blends outlaw country, devil blues, and folk storytelling, offering solace to those in the shadows. Influenced by artists like Johnny Cash, Tyler Childers, and Amigo the Devil, his sound evokes comparisons to The White Buffalo, Shawn James, and KALEO.

In 2018, Sants recorded his first EP, "Mess I've Made," in the Black Hills of South Dakota, aiming to recreate emotion and experience through his lyrics. He has since released albums "Righteous Path" (2023) and "Wicked Road" (2021), along with several singles and EPs. A memorable career highlight includes a fan expressing that Sants' song "I'm Not a Hero" helped them choose to live.

Scott Kirkhart

Scott Kirkhart is a country music artist with several singles and EPs to his name. His latest release, "Bad Decisions," came out in October 2024. Some of his top songs include "Stiff Drink," "When I Get Home" (featuring Jared Benson), "I'll Do Me," and "Moonshine & Mason Jars." He has released singles consistently since 2019, showcasing his dedication to his craft. Kirkhart has also collaborated with Jesse Wilson on tracks like "When I Get Home" and "You (I want it all)," demonstrating his versatility as a featured artist. His music is often compared to artists like Ethan Man and Zach Cook, placing him within a contemporary country soundscape.

Ryan Little Eagle

Ryan Little Eagle is an international, multi-award-winning Native American singer-songwriter and musician. Hailing from San Antonio, Texas, with Lakota/Taino and Latino heritage, he blends Country/Americana storytelling with First Nations musical roots, creating a style he calls "Native Americana."

Ryan's accolades include the Spirit Wind Records' Silver Arrow Award (four times) and Rising Star Award. He has also won two Native American Music Awards for Best Debut Artist (2013) and Best Instrumental Recording (2014), along with two Canadian Indigenous Music Awards for Best Flute CD (2013, 2014). He was also named the 2015 Taino Awards Musician of the Year. Ryan has performed extensively throughout the United States, the Caribbean, and South America.

Janice Gilbert

Janice Gilbert is an award-winning South Dakota singer-songwriter, performer, and music educator, blending country, folk, and Americana influences. Growing up on a farm, her experiences fuel her songwriting, evident in songs like "Corn in the Silo" and "She Can Haul." Gilbert won the 2004 Dakota Star Talent Search, inspiring her to focus on songwriting.

She spent time in Nashville, teaching music and performing at venues like the Bluebird Cafe, where she won the 30th Anniversary Songwriting Contest in 2012 for "No One Has to Go to Be Gone." During her Nashville years, she released three full-length albums.

Returning to South Dakota in 2013, Gilbert continues to perform, headlining at Levitt at the Falls in 2024. She is a member of NSAI and the Midwest Country Music Organization, with several songs signed to publishing contracts. Notable performances include singing "God Bless America" for the Minnesota Twins.

Cory Waller & The Wicked Things

Cory Waller & The Wicked Things hail from the black dirt of Iowa, embodying the spirit of hard-working, small-town folks. Their music, dubbed "black dirt country," resonates throughout the Midwest, often drawing crowds larger than their hometown populations. Frontman Cory Waller's musical journey began in middle school with bassist Ethridge Netz, later joined by lead guitarist Ronley King in Iowa's bar scene. Vocalist Emilee Johnson and drummer Kaleb Ferry complete the lineup.

Their songwriting reflects personal experiences and the stories of their community. Their first full-length album, recorded during a snowstorm in Redfield, Iowa, captures the essence of Midwestern life, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience. Produced by John Locker at Sonic Factory Studios, the album showcases the band's honest and authentic sound.

Amanda Grace

Amanda Grace is a singer-songwriter hailing from St. Paul, Minnesota, known for her versatile musical style spanning acoustic rock, soul, children's music, and Christian genres. She began her career writing and performing music for children, releasing her first album, Trains, Cars & a Trip to Mars, in 2010. Her cover of "You Are My Sunshine" was featured in Parents magazine that same year.

Grace has since released multiple albums and EPs, including Embrace (acoustic rock/adult contemporary) and the Keeping Hearts EP. Her single "Los Angeles" reached the Top Five of Upcoming100.com's "Emerging Artists" category. She is also part of a women's contemporary folk band called Wildflower. Grace's music is inspired by personal experiences, and she aims to connect with listeners through heartfelt lyrics and diverse musical arrangements.

Courtney McKenna

Courtney McKenna is a singer-songwriter breathing new life into classic rock with her full-bodied voice and poetic lyrics. Influenced by folk, Americana, country, and classic rock, she brings warmth to every performance. McKenna honed her DIY-meets-classic-rock aesthetic in New York City, performing at venues like Bowery Electric and Rockwood Music Hall, drawing inspiration from Jefferson Airplane and Janis Joplin.

In 2017, she embarked on her first US tour, playing venues like The Mint in Los Angeles. She released a mixtape in 2017 and a Christmas EP in 2018. Returning to California in 2019, she organizes community music events like "We Are Everyday Sunshine." Collaborating with Chris Kapica, she is releasing her first LP as a series of singles, exploring personal experiences with addiction. Her first single, "Save Yourself," was released in April 2022.

Clementine Moss

Clementine Moss is a multifaceted healing arts practitioner, blending her experiences as a professional musician with spiritual and shamanic practices. As a Depth Hypnosis Practitioner, Applied Shamanic Practitioner, and non-denominational minister, she guides clients toward uncovering their inherent bliss and creative potential. Her approach integrates Depth Hypnosis, shamanism, energy healing, and meditation, addressing issues like trauma, anxiety, and creative blocks.

Clementine's unique background as a rock drummer informs her healing philosophy, using music as a metaphor for spiritual practice. She holds certificates in Energy Medicine, Plant Medicine Integration, and Conflict Resolution, and has studied Contemplative Psychotherapy. Her work emphasizes connecting to the "true self field of consciousness," facilitating effortless living and profound personal transformation. She is also the author of a memoir using her music career as a metaphor for spiritual practice.

Chase Grant

Chase Grant is a singer-songwriter and musician based in Sartell, Minnesota. While specific career highlights and musical style details are limited, he is actively releasing music, as evidenced by his upcoming single "Where I Find God" from "The Front Porch Sessions," available for pre-save on Spotify. Grant's work suggests a focus on heartfelt songwriting and a connection with his audience through relatable themes. He can be contacted directly for bookings and inquiries.

Amani Roberts

Amani Roberts is an internationally renowned speaker, author, and DJ specializing in awakening creativity within hospitality and music professionals. With over 17 years in the music industry and 30 years in hospitality, he blends music and nostalgia to inspire audiences. He is the author of "DJs Mean Business" and "The Quiet Storm."

Amani honed his DJ skills at Scratch Academy in Los Angeles, launching a global DJ career. He has co-released three remix EPs and runs a corporate DJ business, The Amani Experience. He also hosts The Amani Experience Podcast and co-hosts Adventures in Business.

His expertise has been featured in Forbes, People Magazine, and Yahoo! Finance. Amani has collaborated with industry giants like Marriott and Chartmetric, earning recognition as an MPI Top 50 Up & Comer and a three-time Marriott Chairman’s Circle Winner. He is an award-winning professor at CSU Fullerton, teaching music business.

Alexandra Beller

Alexandra Beller, MFA, CMA, is the Artistic Director of Alexandra Beller/Dances, founded in 2002. Before that, she was a member of the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company from 1995-2001. Beller has created over 40 original Dance Theatre works, presented internationally in venues across the US, Korea, Hong Kong, and Europe.

Currently, Beller choreographs primarily for theatre, with notable Off-Broadway credits including Sense and Sensibility (Helen Hayes Award, Lortel Nomination) and How to transcend a happy marriage (Lincoln Center Theatre). She has also choreographed for regional theaters, including the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival and Milwaukee Rep. Beller directed and choreographed an adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream for 92Y.

Beller was on faculty at Princeton from 2015-2022 and teaches at The Laban Institute for Movement Studies and HB Studios. She is the author of The Embodied Conductor (Meredith Music, 2025) and The Anatomy of Art (Bloomsbury, 2026). Her dance theatre style blends movement and words, exploring themes of morality, compassion, and power.

Damaris

Damaris is a Mexican-German singer-songwriter whose storytelling folk-pop is steeped in family, grit, and wide-open skies. Named from Sesame Street and raised on campfire songs and country dance halls, she blends honeyed vocals, textured acoustic layers, and a flair for frontier imagery. Her projects, including Come Sit By My Fire and Howl at the Moon, travel from tender confessionals to boot-stomping resilience—songs like “Good Girl,” “Outlaw Kids,” and “My Yellow Rose of Texas” celebrate vulnerability, defiance, and gratitude in equal measure.

A proud single mom of two grown children, Damaris writes with the clarity of a survivor and the warmth of a host, inviting listeners to pull up a chair by the fire. On stage—from intimate workshops to regional venues in Kansas and Oklahoma—she’s an open-book performer, trading polished perfection for presence, humor, and heart. Damaris isn’t chasing a scene; she’s building a circle—one lyric, one story, one night at a time.

Garreson

Garreson is a Portland-based singer-songwriter whose soulful and uplifting music reflects his Oregon roots. Raised among the blue mountains, his sound carries the ache of a Northwest winter, blended with influences from various eras, inspired by artists he listened to with his family. His debut album, "Monte," explores emotional depth and versatility, processing grief after his grandfather's passing.

Garreson's music blends Americana, soul, and country, drawing comparisons to Hozier, Ray Lamontagne, John Denver, and Orville Peck. He delivers intimate performances with acoustic and electric guitars, covering artists from Chappell Roan to Elvis Presley, while adding his personal touch. His original songs explore themes of religious trauma, imposter syndrome, and LGBTQ self-acceptance, conveying hope and optimism. Garreson also founded Northwest Songfest, supporting singer-songwriters in the Oregon region.

Dalton Jones

Dalton Jones is an independent country artist blending heartfelt storytelling with a blue-collar sound built for small towns and big stages. Growing an audience across TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, he’s earned traction with performances like his fan-favorite take on “I Wish Grandpas Never Died.”

Dalton’s music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Pandora, where listeners connect with his honest vocals, relatable lyrics, and down-home grit. Onstage, he delivers a high-energy show anchored by sing-along hooks and modern country edge, and he’s actively booking dates through his Linktree.

Beyond the music, Dalton keeps a close connection with fans through regular content, a full merch line (hats, shirts, sweatshirts), and a tip jar for live performances. Whether it’s a Friday-night honky-tonk or a festival slot, Dalton Jones brings authentic country music with heart, humility, and a good-time spirit.

East of Anthony

East of Anthony is an alternative rock band based in Arkansas, formed in 2020 by guitarist and vocalist Anthony Tabone. Heavily influenced by 90's rock and grunge, as well as 2000's rock and indie folk, the band delivers a sound characterized by powerful lyrics and hard-hitting riffs.

Since its formation, East of Anthony has cultivated a growing fanbase, performing regularly at venues across Arkansas and beyond, including George's Majestic Lounge and Conway Art Walk. Their popular releases, including "Higher Ground" and "Save Yourself," are available on major streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube. The band continues to write and record new music, engaging with fans through social media and a dedicated mailing list.

McKenna Faith Winters

McKenna Faith Winters, a 16-year-old singer-songwriter from Illinois, is rapidly making her mark on the indie country music scene. Since 2023, she has released over ten singles, five of which have reached #1 on indie charts across the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Her music blends heartfelt storytelling with powerful vocals, drawing inspiration from artists like Kelsea Ballerini and Carrie Underwood.

Winters has performed at iconic Nashville honky-tonks, including Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row and Nudie’s Honky Tonk, and was featured at the Commodore Grille. She was named Tailgate Country Radio's Artist of the Year in Canada, with "Forgot Your Name" recognized as their #1 song of 2024. Her single "I'm Doin' Country Tonight" also topped the BlackDog Indie Country Chart in the U.S. for five weeks. Winters emphasizes building relationships with her fans, drawing inspiration from artists like Taylor Swift and Avery Anna.

Benjamin Raye

Benjamin Raye is an American singer-songwriter and radio personality hailing from Minneapolis, MN. He gained recognition as an on-air announcer at KQRS and KXXR. Raye's musical style is diverse, spanning country, alternative rock, and pop genres. His single "Far Away" charted nationally on the AAA charts. He was awarded Most Promising New Artist by the Independent Country Music Association in 2012.

Raye released his first full-length CD, "Come And Get It," in 2014. Several of his songs have received radio airplay across the U.S., including "Shy Side Of Three," which entered the Active Rock chart. In 2016, he signed with an indie label in Nashville, recording "Somewhere" with Billy "Thunder" Mason. He continues to release music, including his 2024 single "Not Much To Write About," recorded in Nashville. He also hosted local music radio shows for over a decade, championing Minnesota artists.

Fyre Whyte

Fyre Wyte makes Mental Music—storm-lit meditations from a soul that refuses the mold. This is not about being understood; it’s about being felt. Existing fully in their own skin, Fyre Wyte channels the weight of the world and the ache to set it free, turning pressure into pulse, shadow into signal. Every track is a field note from the inner wilderness: raw, lucid, and unafraid to name the weather inside.

Blending alt-pop sensibilities with moody electronic textures, dark-tinged hip‑hop cadences, and cinematic atmospheres, Fyre Wyte builds soundscapes where vulnerability is voltage. Hooks arrive like lightning; verses smolder with slow-burning honesty. Themes orbit mental health, identity, solitude, resilience, and the long walk toward self-liberation—music as a compass when maps fail.

Boo Boo

Boo Boo is an emerging independent artist from South Dakota crafting raw, emotionally charged songs that cut straight to the nerve. With a prolific run of 2024 releases—including projects like Addiction, America, Die Young, Imagination, and Since You Left—Boo Boo traces the fault lines of heartbreak, relapse, resilience, and the long road back to self.

His sound blends melancholic melodies with confessional lyrics and a DIY grit that feels intimate and immediate—like late-night voice notes set to aching beats. Each track reads like a chapter: fragments of memory, flashes of anger, and moments of fragile clarity, stitched together by a restless drive to tell the truth. Boo Boo’s world is stark and human; he doesn’t flinch from the dark, but he keeps searching for the small lights that survive it.

As his catalog grows, so does a grassroots audience drawn to the honesty in his storytelling. Boo Boo isn’t chasing trends—he’s documenting a life in motion, capturing the tension between falling apart and finding a way through. This is music for anyone who’s loved hard, lost sleep, and kept going anyway.

Diamonique Jackson

Diamonique Jackson is a Billboard Recording Artist based in Los Angeles, known for her fusion of 90's R&B and neo-soul. Her single "Toast Up" landed on the Billboard Adult R&B Indicator, showcasing her signature sound. A graduate of Wiley College with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a minor in Music Education, she has dedicated her life to performing arts and education.

Jackson's career highlights include performing for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House. She debuted as a "Rising Star" alongside a Grammy-Award winning gospel artist. Beyond her music, Diamonique is an educator for the L.A. District and has served as a vocal instructor and assistant director for Young Actors Guild. She continues to share her gifts and talents globally, with plans to release an EP.

Aaron Newsome

Aaron Newsome is a country musician hailing from Pontiac, IL, born on December 25, 1997. Drawing inspiration from artists like Elvis Presley, Merle Haggard, and The Red Clay Strays, Newsome's music embodies a raw and honest sound. He appreciates live performances and authentic lyrics. Newsome has released several singles in 2025, including "Dead Animal Bar," "Hometown Song," "Corduroy Jacket," and "Little Flyer" (feat. Brie Stadler), showcasing his songwriting and musical style.

Lazarus

Lazarus is a Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter whose storytelling blurs the lines between indie folk, alternative rock, and cinematic pop. Rising from the Twin Cities scene with earlier band roots and charting releases, he’s built a reputation for sharply crafted songs that pair weighty themes with memorable hooks. His catalog reflects a wide creative range—acoustic confessions, full-band anthems, and atmospheric collaborations—shaped by years of writing, touring, and recording.

Known for his dynamic live shows and a collaborative spirit, ImLazarus has worked alongside a variety of artists, expanding his sound without losing the intimate core of his writing. Lyrically, he leans into redemption, grief, and grace—songs about getting knocked down and choosing to stand again. It’s music that feels lived-in and deeply human, the kind that lingers after the last chord.

Greg Hall

Gregg Hall is a musician from Medary, Wisconsin, known for his work with The White Iron Band and Gregg Hall and the Wrecking Ball. Coming from a family of musicians and artists, he began performing at the age of eight. To date, Hall has released 12 albums and EPs. He owns Deece Productions.

Hall's music spans various genres, including rhythm and blues, bluegrass, country, and pop. His recent album showcases this diversity, featuring an instrumental piece, a song about addiction, and a pop-country ballad. He has shared the stage with notable artists such as Little Feet, Dr. John, Bill Miller, and Jackson Browne. Hall aims to continue creating music and hopes to get signed and played on the radio. His music and merchandise can be found at deeceproductions.com, gregghallmusic.com, and whiteironband.com.

Layna Lae

Layna Lae, also known as the Princess of Urban Pop, is an independent artist, songwriter, and performer based in the DMV. As CEO of Loyale Nation Music Publishing, she blends pop, hip-hop, and R&B, creating empowering music that resonates with listeners. Layna discovered her voice at 16 and debuted her self-titled single in 2019.

Layna has performed for notable figures like DJ Drewski and Trina, and at events like Charles County Pride. She was the first female artist to join Money Gang Musik Group, contributing to their "Group of the Year" win at the Underground Music Awards. Recent releases like "Quite Like You," "Promise," and "Throw It All Away" showcase her vocal and storytelling growth. Layna's music appeals to Gen Z and Millennials, offering a fresh sound for fans of Kehlani, Drake, and Nicki Minaj. She is focused on building a movement through her music and visuals.

Amber Nadine

Amber Nadine is a singer/songwriter and actress from Hummelstown, Pennsylvania. Her passion for performing ignited at age four, singing karaoke at pool parties, inspired by artists like Hilary Duff. This early start led to six years of acting classes, where she played roles in productions like Snow White and Robin Hood.

Nadine's musical style blends pop sensibilities with introspective storytelling. Her discography includes singles like "Rooftop," "Manmade," and "Breakdown In The Shower," as well as the "Lilac" EP. Her song "I Am Me" holds special significance, born from a desire to define her own genre-bending artistic identity. Nadine's latest release is the single "The Final Hit" (2025). She continues to perform live, with upcoming shows scheduled in Harrisburg and York, PA. Nadine aims to bring joy to listeners as she embarks on her musical journey.

Demi Michelle Schwartz

Demi Michelle Schwartz is a multi-award-winning pop and country songwriter from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She began her songwriting journey in 2019 with her debut single, "Into Focus," followed by her debut album, Dear Diary, in 2021, showcasing her vulnerability and honesty. In 2022, she achieved her first songwriting cut with UK artist Lindsey Farrow's "Never Add Up," for which she also played piano.

Demi's music blends genres, evident in her 2022 EP, It Is What It Is, which earned her the bronze award for USA Female Album of the Year at the 2023 ISSA Awards. In 2024, she released her sophomore pop album, Hear Me Out, featuring award-winning songs like "Passive Aggressive." Her song "Winter Cold" won Best Christmas Jazz Song at the 3rd Annual Holiday Music and Film Awards. Currently, Demi is recording a fairy-tale inspired EP and returning to her classical piano roots. She also hosts the award-nominated "Write on Track: A Songwriting Podcast."

Zach Moder

MN Moder, aka Modervation, is a Duluth, Minnesota hip-hop artist whose grit and growth fuel every bar. A U.S. Army veteran (19D Cavalry Scout) who’s navigated adversity and reinvention, he channels lived experience into sharp storytelling and blue-collar realism. His 2019 project, Modervation, showcases a versatile voice—switching from reflective narratives to hard-charging anthems—while collaborating with voices like June B, Kimahri, and Tone Jonez.

On stage, he’s opened for industry heavyweights including Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Tech N9ne, and Twista, earning his stripes with relentless work ethic and a crowd-first presence. Anchored in the Northland but speaking to broader struggles—survival, accountability, purpose—MN Moder builds songs that move from confessional to motivational without losing their edge.

More than a moniker, “Modervation” is his ethos: modern hustle plus relentless self-determination.

Jeremy Zeller

Jeremy Zeller was born into a musical family and began playing drums at age 11. He toured across 46 states for eight years as a singer with Poor Man's Riches, a band that garnered multiple Gospel Music Association Awards. After leaving the band to raise his son, he was part of Soft Like Fire and led worship at a local church.

Zeller describes his musical style as "Grunge Gospel," though others categorize it as Roots Rock. His music serves as a tool to connect with people and share a message of gratitude, grace, and love. A turning point in his life came with his autism diagnosis, leading him to become an advocate for autism awareness. He founded "A Day at the Park" festival in Lawrenceburg to promote understanding and acceptance. Recently, Zeller won multiple LEXI Music Awards and performs as Jeremy Zeller and the Otherside, focusing on themes of recovery and self-discovery.

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Events!

Catch Bubba Startz on tour with his band

For 25 years Bubba Startz has been stepping on stages to perform his original music in front of live audiences around the world.

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Songwriter Showcase with Bubba Startz

The Songwriter Showcase was designed to make it affordable for an artist to accomplish three goals in one sitting and have an amazing time doing it.

We host songwriters and arrange the recording session in full. We provide studio quality audio, broadcast level HD video and a team of editors to review the performance.

Artists perform 3 original songs which are available to the artist to use for their next singles, videos and press kits.

The content will then be eligible to submit for distribution with IGMPTV which appears on Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV.

We do all of this for far less than it would cost to have done for artists on their own and they get to spend time with The Scene Projects founder, 2024 Content Creator of the Year, and host of the Songwriter Showcase, Bubba Startz.

An incredible opportunity for every artist out there searching for their break. This is how you make your own breaks and launch your next releases into the stratosphere.

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What Our Clients Say

Critt Veda

It was a great pleasure to be on a song writers show with The Scene!

This was a huge opportunity for me to get in front of a new crowd and show off my lyrical abilities and talk about my projects. Bubba Startz is an incredible individual for what he puts into our entire music community and for the important events he hosts that help heal our communities. Can’t wait to do more you this whole project! 🍻

AJ Stone

We’re just beginning to grow. We saw the interviews with SunDown47 which was awesome. Saw the artist lineup at Midway Saloon which was successful. To the over growing scene!

Hayley and Ryan Klima

The Scene Projects did a benefit for our two-year-old with type one diabetes. It was put together very quickly and was still highly successful! Bubba, is an amazing public speaker with a heart as captivating as his voice! We were so honored by all the talent that came through for our family, and all the time donated from the goodness of hearts.