Backstory:

Buoyant Prince came together in the summer of 2012 in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas. The band was formed by a group of friends who were united by their shared love of music and their drive to create something different. The members, Jason “Jase” McAllister (vocals and guitar), Ryan “Ry” Douglas (bass), Nick “Nico” Simmons (drums), and Sean “Scout” O’Brian (keyboard and backup vocals), were all working minimum wage jobs and playing music on the side when they decided to take a leap of faith and dedicate their lives to their passion.

After a few years of playing gigs in local bars and venues, their unique sound started to gain traction. They got their big break when a song they recorded during a garage jam session went viral on social media. Almost overnight, Buoyant Prince found themselves signed to a major label, touring the country, and being hailed as the next big thing in the music industry.

Genre: Indie Pop/Rock

Title: “Invisible Strings”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1: Dm Gm C F]
Walking down the same old streets,
Dm Gm C F
Between the echoes of our past, we meet,
Dm Gm C F
You’ve got that smile that used to move my world,
Dm Gm C F
Invisible strings, wrapped around, uncurled.

[Chorus: Bb F C Dm]
Bb F C Dm
Invisible strings, pull us close, push away,
Bb F C Dm
In a dance that’s tangled in what we don’t say.

[Verse 2: Dm Gm C F]
The moon is high, whispers in the wind,
Dm Gm C F
Our shadows play along, where do we begin?
Dm Gm C F
Your laugh echoes the soundtrack of my dreams,
Dm Gm C F
In the dance of us, pulled by invisible strings.

[Chorus: Bb F C Dm]
Bb F C Dm
Invisible strings, secrets in the night,
Bb F C Dm
In the dance of us, everything feels right.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily Thompson. Emily discovered Buoyant Prince during a difficult time in her life and their music offered a source of comfort and inspiration. She has been to every single one of their concerts since they first started performing.

Testimonial:

Emily says, “Buoyant Prince’s music has been there for me in my darkest times, their songs have a way of lifting me up and giving me hope. They are my favorite band because their music is deeply emotional and relatable. Their song ‘Invisible Strings’ particularly resonates with me. It’s like they’ve managed to put my feelings into words and melodies. I’ll always be their number one fan.”

Backstory:
Raw Cracker was founded in the heart of New York City in 1995 by five childhood friends, drawn together by their shared love of music and their desire to break free from the monotony of regular life. Harry (vocals), Mike (lead guitar), Sam (bass guitar), Jon (drums), and Luis (keyboard) grew up together in the same neighborhood and went to the same school, where they bonded over their shared passion for creating music. They started playing in their parents’ garages, and their raw talent and unique sound quickly caught the attention of a local record producer. Their journey from the garage to the big stage wasn’t easy, but their determination and passion for music helped them rise above the challenges and carve out their own space in the music industry.

Genre:
Rock/Alternative

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am
I’m pacing the halls, lost in my thoughts
G
Tripping over love, we left behind
F
In the corners of my mind, your echo still lingers
C
Can’t shake your love, it’s tangled in my fingers

(Chorus)
G Am
I’m chasing shadows, on empty streets
F C
Hunting echoes, of your heartbeat
G Am
Drowning in memories, of bittersweet times,
F C
Chasing shadows, in the back of my mind

(Verse 2)
Am
I’m walking on a wire, suspended in time
G
Holding onto memories that were once mine
F
Your whispers still roam, echoing the same old song
C
In the chambers of my heart, where you belong

(Chorus)
G Am
I’m chasing shadows, on empty streets
F C
Hunting echoes, of your heartbeat
G Am
Drowning in memories, of bittersweet times,
F C
Chasing shadows, in the back of my mind

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Name: Lisa Dean

“Raw Cracker has always been more than just a band to me. Their music has been a beacon of light in my darkest times, a source of strength, and a reminder of the beauty that lies in raw, unfiltered expressions of human emotions. ‘Chasing Shadows’ particularly resonates with me. Whenever I feel lost or overwhelmed, I listen to this song and find comfort in the shared human experience of love, loss, and longing. The lyrics echo my own emotions, and the music helps me process my feelings. Raw Cracker’s music has been a constant companion to me, and I am truly grateful for their existence.”

Backstory:

Stylish Berry is a band that was formed in the vibrant city of Chicago in 2016. The band consists of four childhood friends: Louis (vocals), Jake (guitar), Benny (drums), and Alex (bass). Their friendship goes back to their elementary school days where they would spend hours on end jamming in Jake’s basement. They all shared a love for creating music that was so potent it could not be ignored. The boys decided to officially form ‘Stylish Berry’ after their high school graduation, intending to create a sound that was as fresh as it was nostalgic.

During their formative years, they played in various local gigs and honed their sound, a blend of pop and rock with a hint of funk, earning a loyal local fan base. They gained wider recognition when their song ‘Strawberry Skyline’ became a hit on a local radio station. The rest, as they say, is history. With their unique sound and relatable lyrics, Stylish Berry continues to delight and surprise their listeners.

Genre:

Pop-Rock with a hint of Funk.

Title:

Strawberry Skyline

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Waking up to a [G] strawberry skyline,
[Am] Thinking about how [Em] you used to be mine.
[F] Remembering the [C] sweet taste of your lips,
[G] Missing how they felt with every sip.

(Chorus)
[C] Under the strawberry [G] skyline, we were in love,
[Am] Dreaming of forever under [F] stars above.
[C] But now the sky’s grey, [G] and you’re away,
[Am] And all I have is [F] memories of yesterday.

(Verse 2)
[C] You painted my life with [G] colors so bright,
[Am] Now all I see is [Em] black and white.
[F] You were my sun, my [C] moon, my star,
[G] Now I’m just wishing you weren’t so far.

(Chorus)
[C] Under the strawberry [G] skyline, we used to laugh,
[Am] Making memories we thought [F] would last.
[C] But now I’m alone, [G] under the same sky,
[Am] Wishing I could go back to that [F] July.

The bands favorite fan’s name and why and how this band is their favorite as a testimonial:

“Hello, I’m Jenny, a die-hard fan of Stylish Berry. I first heard them playing at a local gig in Chicago back in 2017, and I fell in love with their unique sound. It was unlike anything I’d heard before, a perfect blend of pop, rock, and funk. The lyrics to their songs are so relatable, and they always give me chills. My favorite song is ‘Strawberry Skyline.’ It perfectly encapsulates the feeling of lost love and longing. I’ve been following them ever since, attending their concerts, and their music has helped me through some tough times. Stylish Berry isn’t just a band to me, they’re a companion, a healer, and most importantly, a constant source of joy.”

Backstory:
Glum Scandal was born in the heart of Seattle’s grunge scene in the late 1990s. The band’s four members, childhood friends Jenny, Parker, Leonard, and Sam, had always shared a passion for music, but it wasn’t until they experienced a collective heartbreak – a falling out with their close-knit group of friends – that their shared love for music transformed into something more profound. They used their music as an outlet for their pain and disillusionment, and Glum Scandal was born. The band quickly gained recognition for their raw, emotionally charged performances and lyrics, often drawing upon their own life experiences and the darker side of human emotions.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Grunge

Title:
“Bitter Shadows”

Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em G D A
Walking through the bitter shadows,
Em G D A
lost our way in the dark.
Em G D A
Fell down on our knees,
Em G D A
lost our faith, lost our spark.

[Chorus]
Em G D A
Bitter shadows, hiding the truth,
Em G D A
We’re lost in the dark, lost in our youth.
Em G D A
Bitter shadows, we’re waiting to see,
Em G D A
If we can rise, if we can be free.

[Verse 2]
Em G D A
Screaming out our pain,
Em G D A
lost in the noise.
Em G D A
We’re just echoes,
Em G D A
lost boys.

[Chorus]
Em G D A
Bitter shadows, hiding the truth,
Em G D A
We’re lost in the dark, lost in our youth.
Em G D A
Bitter shadows, we’re waiting to see,
Em G D A
If we can rise, if we can be free.

[Bridge]
Em G D A
Hold on, hold on, we’re not yet lost,
Em G D A
In the bitter shadows, we paid the cost.

[Chorus]
Em G D A
Bitter shadows, hiding the truth,
Em G D A
We’re lost in the dark, lost in our youth.
Em G D A
Bitter shadows, we’re waiting to see,
Em G D A
If we can rise, if we can be free.

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name’s Jake, and I’ve been a die-hard fan of Glum Scandal since their first gig at Seattle’s underground club, The Back Room. Their blend of grunge and alternative rock, their raw, powerful lyrics, and their stage presence just spoke to me in a way no other band ever has. They capture the essence of being lost and confused, yet still holding on to hope. Their song, “Bitter Shadows,” in particular, has been a constant companion during my darkest times. It’s a reminder that, no matter how dark things get, there’s always a chance for redemption and growth. Glum Scandal isn’t just my favorite band; they’re a lifeline.

Backstory:

Real Degree is a band that organically formed in the bustling city of Toronto, Canada in 2015. The band members – singer and guitarist Dave Mitchell, drummer Mike Richards, bassist Stan Wilson, and keyboardist and backup vocalist Ricky Davis – met during their time at the University of Toronto where they were all pursuing degrees in different disciplines. However, one common passion brought them together: their love for music. They gigged at local bars around the university, slowly building a fan base. Their name, “Real Degree,” is a nod to their academic pursuits and a play on the idea that the “real” degree they received from their time at university was their musical bond and the growth of their band.

They got their big break in 2018 when they were scouted at one of their local gigs by a music producer who saw their unique energy and undeniable talent. This led to their signing with a record label, and they have been producing music and touring the world ever since. Despite their success, they’ve stayed grounded, attributing their accomplishments to their devoted fans, their humble beginnings, and their shared passion for music.

Genre:
Alternative Pop

Title:
“Underneath the Stars”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Major – C Major – D Major – E minor
We drove all night, in your old man’s car,
Through city lights, to where it’s quiet and dark.
Just two lost souls, chasing the moon,
Underneath the stars, humming to our favorite tune.

(Chorus)
C Major – A minor – D Major – G Major
Underneath the stars, we find who we are,
Away from the noise, we hear our own voice.
Lost in the night, we find our light,
Underneath the stars, we see our real hearts.

(Verse 2)
G Major – C Major – D Major – E minor
We talk about dreams, and old scars,
Sharing our fears, underneath the stars.
No walls, no masks, just our naked souls,
In the silence of the night, we let our stories unfold.

(Chorus)
C Major – A minor – D Major – G Major
Underneath the stars, we find who we are,
Away from the noise, we hear our own voice.
Lost in the night, we find our light,
Underneath the stars, we see our real hearts.

Testimonial:
Fan Name: Sarah Thompson

Sarah Thompson, a devoted fan since 2015, shares her love for Real Degree: “I’ve been there since their first gig at the local bar near the university. There’s something about their music that feels raw, real, and deeply relatable. Their songs speak to me on a personal level, and I feel seen and understood. ‘Underneath the Stars’ is a song that I hold close to my heart. It’s been my companion during lonely nights and heartbreaks. The way they’ve grown without losing their roots is admirable. For me, Real Degree is more than just a band; they’re a testament to sticking together and chasing dreams, no matter the odds.”

Backstory:
Quiet Site is a musical journey that commenced in the small coastal town of Santa Monica, California. The band consists of lead guitarist and vocalist, Oliver Smith, drummer, Ethan Jones, bassist, Aaron Taylor, and keyboardist, Luke Williams. They were high school friends who grew up sharing a mutual love for music and songwriting. They officially formed the band after high school, and it was an outlet for them to express their feelings and views about the world. They named their band ‘Quiet Site’ as a tribute to their favorite childhood hangout spot, a peaceful little grove where they often jammed and wrote songs together.

Their journey has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride. The band experienced a brief hiatus when they were in college, but their passion for music brought them back together. Their music is a fusion of their experiences, influences, and their unique interpretation of the world around them. Now, Quiet Site is on the verge of releasing their second studio album, after their debut album earned them a good fan base and critical acclaim.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Shadows of the Sun”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (C-G-Am-E)
Beneath the shadows of the sun,
We lost our hearts, we were undone.
In the quiet site we used to know,
Our love was pure, it used to glow.

Chorus: (F-C-G)
Quiet site, where we used to hide,
In the shadows of the sun, we collide.
Quiet site, bring back our pride,
In your arms, we want to reside.

Verse 2: (C-G-Am-E)
We grew up, we moved apart,
But the quiet site holds our heart.
In the whispers of the wind, we hear,
The echo of our laughter, loud and clear.

Chorus: (F-C-G)
Quiet site, where dreams were made,
In the shadows of the sun, they don’t fade.
Quiet site, don’t let memories jade,
Hold us close, in your soothing shade.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Megan Palmer. Megan is a college student who has been following Quiet Site since their first gig. She admires the authenticity and rawness in their music. She says, “Quiet Site has a way of weaving stories and emotions into their music that resonates deeply with me. Their songs have been my companions through my highs and lows, and it’s like they understand what I’m going through. Their song ‘Shadows of the Sun’ is my favorite, and it holds a special place in my heart. To me, Quiet Site isn’t just a band; they’re a part of my life.”

Backstory:
Double Construction hails from the bustling city of Chicago, a place known as a melting pot of music genres, from blues to rock to jazz. The band was formed in 2005 by childhood friends and carpenters, Jackson “Jack” Martinez and Daniel “Danny” Thompson. They spent their days building houses and their nights crafting songs, hence the band name ‘Double Construction.’

Their journey began in a small garage filled with construction tools and musical instruments, symbolizing their dual passions. With Jack on the guitar and Danny on the drums, they started playing at local bars, gaining a following with their unique sound. Over the years, they added bassist, Mike Simmons, and keyboardist, Eve Lewis, amplifying the band’s depth and dynamism.

Genre:
The band identifies their music as “Architectural Rock,” a genre they invented, blending classic rock and blues with a unique twist of construction sound elements, like the rhythmic pounding of hammers and the metallic screech of a saw.

Title:
One of their most popular songs is titled “Blueprints of Love.”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] I’ve been building up my courage, [G] planning each step
[Am] Sketching designs on your heart, [F] I haven’t shown you yet
[C] I possess the blueprints of love, [G] drawn with careful hand
[Am] Every arc, every line, [F] is part of my plan

(Chorus)
[C] Blueprints of love, [G] your heart’s a construction site
[Am] I’m laying bricks of tenderness, [F] beneath the starlight
[C] With each steel beam of trust, [G] and cemented desires
[Am] We’ll create a fortress of love, [F] that never retires

(Verse 2)
[C] Each floor we build together, [G] higher we soar
[Am] Structuring our dreams, [F] opening every door
[C] With these blueprints of love, [G] our hearts intertwine
[Am] Building pillars of passion, [F] that withstand time

(Chorus)
[C] Blueprints of love, [G] our love story unfolds
[Am] Our laughter like wallpaper, [F] memories we hold
[C] With each nailed promise, [G] and painted hopes
[Am] We’re sculpting an edifice of love, [F] foundation so bold

Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Julie Merton. Julie says, “Double Construction is and will always be my favorite band. Their music is soulful, innovative, and filled with raw, honest emotion. The way they blend classic rock and blues with construction sounds is ingenious. It’s like they’re building a home in your heart with each song. ‘Blueprints of Love’ was my wedding song, its lyrics perfectly encapsulate the process of falling in love, constructing a life together, and the work it takes to keep that love strong. Their music isn’t just songs, they’re life anthems.”

Backstory:
Chilly Family was born out of the love for music shared by three siblings from the snowy landscapes of Anchorage, Alaska. Growing up in the chilling winds and amidst the mesmerizing auroras, they found their escape and joy in the harmony of sounds. The eldest, David, a guitar aficionado, the middle child, Rebecca, a soulful singer, and the youngest, Jim, a prodigious drummer, decided to form a band when they all found themselves back home after years of studying and working separately.

Their common room soon turned into a studio, filled with the echoes of their laughter, arguments, inspirations, and harmonies. They started performing locally, their connection and chemistry as siblings reflected in their music, gaining them a small but passionate following. Eventually, their unique blend of music caught the attention of a reputed record label, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Snowflakes and Starlight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C
Under the Northern lights, we found our song,
Am D
In the cold winter nights, we sang along.
G C
Echoes of laughter, secrets we share,
Am D
In the chilly breeze, love in the air.

(Chorus)
G C
Snowflakes and starlight, melodies born,
Am D
In the heart of the night, a new day is dawned.
G C
Chilly family, singing our tune,
Am D
Under the Alaskan moon.

(Verse 2)
G C
Strumming the strings, beating the drums,
Am D
Singing of dreams, of things to come.
G C
In this frosty world, we found our heat,
Am D
In our songs, we feel complete.

(Chorus)
G C
Snowflakes and starlight, melodies fly,
Am D
In the starry night, under the sky.
G C
Chilly family, sharing our story,
Am D
In every note, we find our glory.

Chilly Family Fan:
The band’s favorite fan’s name is Emily, a teenage girl from their hometown of Anchorage. Emily was among their first fans when they started performing at local gigs. She has been with them on every step of their musical journey, her unwavering support and love for their music never fading. She says, “Chilly Family isn’t just a band for me; it’s like an extension of my own family. Their music resonates with my soul, giving me a sense of belonging. The soulful lyrics, the mesmerizing chord progression, and the compelling voices offer an unmatched musical experience. They’re my favorite because they weave magic through their music, a magic that’s comforting, inspiring, and real.”

Backstory:
Impossible Boom was formed in 2008 in the heart of Seattle, Washington. Comprised of four members: Andrew Turner on guitar and lead vocals, Chris Anderson on the drums, Emma Peterson on the bass, and Katie Lewis on keyboard and backing vocals. They were all childhood friends who shared a common love for music, energy, and creativity. The band is known for their electrifying live performances and their unique blend of styles which make them stand out in the music scene.

Their rise to fame came out of nowhere when they won a local Battle of the Bands in 2011. This victory gave them the opportunity to open for a popular indie band, which in turn led to them being noticed by a prominent record label. Since then, they’ve released three successful albums and have gained a substantial following, solidifying their place in the industry.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G D Am
Running fast through the night,
Am G D
Chasing shadows out of sight,
Am G D
Whispered words on the wind,
Am G D
Don’t know where to begin.

(Chorus)
C G D
Chasing shadows, can’t let go,
C G D
Running faster, hearts echo,
C G D
Chasing shadows, keep alive,
C G D
Wild hearts can never be tamed, they only thrive.

(Verse 2)
Am G D Am
Lost in time, lost in space,
Am G D
Chasing shadows, constant chase,
Am G D
Under the moon, under the sun,
Am G D
Can’t stop ‘til we’ve won.

(Chorus)
C G D
Chasing shadows, can’t let go,
C G D
Running faster, hearts echo,
C G D
Chasing shadows, keep alive,
C G D
Wild hearts can never be tamed, they only thrive.

(Testimonial)
Fan’s name: Megan Edwards

“I’ve been a fan of Impossible Boom since their early days at the local Battle of the Bands. Their energy, their passion, and their unique sound just drew me in and I haven’t looked back since. Andrew’s voice paired with the band’s synergy creates a sound that is truly mesmerizing. Their song ‘Chasing Shadows’ is my personal favorite. The lyrics speak to the part of me that’s always seeking out something more, something just out of reach. It’s a song I’ve grown up with and it means the world to me. Impossible Boom isn’t just my favorite band, they’ve become a part of my life’s soundtrack.”

Backstory:

Palatable Flexibility was born out of a chance meeting in a coffee shop in the heart of Chicago. Lead vocalist and songwriter, David “Flex” McKnight was scribbling verses on a napkin when barista and self-taught drummer, Lisa Palatino, noticed his work and complimented his style. A conversation struck up about their shared love for music, and they decided to jam together later that week, forming an instant musical connection. They recruited bassist, Mike “Stretch” Armstrong, and lead guitarist, Jenna “Bendy” Richards, from local gigs, and the band was complete. They began playing in small venues around the city, and their unconventional sound quickly gained a local following. They named their band Palatable Flexibility, a nod to their fluid musical style and the unexpected way they came together.

Genre:

Palatable Flexibility is best described as Indie Rock with a twist of Soul. Their sound is a unique blend of gritty guitar riffs, powerful drum beats, and soulful vocals, all underpinned by insightful lyrics that speak to the heart.

Title:

“Morning Brew.”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Gm / Am / C / Am
I met her in the morning, in the heart of the city grind,
She served me black coffee, and a piece of her mind.
We sat there in the corner, lost in a world of our own,
Our hearts playing a rhythm, a melody unknown.

(Chorus)
C / G / Am / Em
Our morning brew, it’s more than just a drink,
It’s the start of our story, it’s our soulful link.
In the heart of the city, amid the hustle and the speed,
In our morning brew, we find all we need.

(Verse 2)
Gm / Am / C / Am
She showed me her dreams, scribbled on a coffee cup,
I shared my lyrics, and we decided to team up.
We found a bass and a guitar, to complete our band,
In the city’s noise, we made our stand.

(Chorus)
C / G / Am / Em
Our morning brew, it’s more than just a song,
It’s the rhythm of our life, it’s where we belong.
In the heart of the city, amid the chaos and the din,
In our morning brew, we find where we begin.

Favorite Fan:

Our band’s favorite fan is Tim Sullivan. Tim was one of the earliest attendees at our gigs, and his enthusiasm never waned. He loves the raw energy and unique blend of genres in our music. Tim says, “Palatable Flexibility isn’t just a band; it’s an experience. Every gig feels like a journey into the heart of the city, into the heart of life itself. There’s depth in their lyrics, and their soulful rock sound feels refreshing and real. They’ve managed to capture the essence of life in their music, and that’s why they’re my favorite band.”