Backstory:
Unfortunate Creditor is a rock band that came to fruition in the underbelly of Chicago’s warehouse district. The band members, Jake Sorenson (vocals), Tom “Rusty” Baines (lead guitar), Louie Dietrich (bass), and Mickey “The Machine” Ortiz (drums) found each other through their shared love for music and their shared struggle with financial challenges. Their name, “Unfortunate Creditor,” pays homage to their financial struggles that they faced in their early days before they found solid ground in the music industry.

The band, after playing their heart out in dingy bars and underground clubs, was discovered by a record producer. Despite their hardships and constant struggle, their authentic and raw talent didn’t go unnoticed. Their lyrics, filled with stories of love, resistance, persistence, and heartbreak, resonate with people from all walks of life.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Drowning in Debts”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F G C
Drowning in debts, lost in regret,
Am F G C
Living on the edge, we’re placing our bets
Am F G C
Looking for hope, in the midst of chaos
Am F G C
We’re Unfortunate Creditors, bearing our cross.

(Chorus)
F G C Am
Oh, we won’t back down, we won’t lose sight
F G C Am
In the darkest cloud, we’ll find the light
F G C Am
We’re Unfortunate Creditors, in this endless fight
F G C
But we’ll make our stand, with all our might.

(Verse 2)
Am F G C
Struggling to breathe, under the weight
Am F G C
In this gamble of life, we checkmate
Am F G C
With dreams in our eyes, and songs in our hearts
Am F G C
We’re Unfortunate Creditors, playing our parts.

(Repeat Chorus)

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
Sarah Thompson has been an avid fan of Unfortunate Creditor from their beginning days in the underground clubs of Chicago. She says, “There’s something incredibly real about their music. Their lyrics speak to my soul and their melodies touch my heart. The struggles and triumphs they sing about are so relatable. It’s like they’ve put my life’s story into their songs. Unfortunate Creditor isn’t just a band for me; they’re the voice of every person who’s ever struggled and fought to make it. They’ve given me strength in my darkest times. That’s why they’re my absolute favorite.”

Backstory:
Rotten Sin emerged from the gritty underground music scene of New York City in 2008. The band was formed by childhood friends, lead vocalist Johnny “Raven” Ravelle and guitarist Mark “Shred” Shredder, who shared a mutual love for rebellious music and a desire to shatter conventional norms. As they journeyed through life, the duo witnessed the harsh realities of the world, fueling their passion to voice their angst and disillusionment through their music. They were later joined by drummer ‘Boom’ Benny and bassist ‘Vibe’ Vincent. Rotten Sin earned a reputation for their raw energy, provocative lyrics and electrifying live performances, becoming the voice of the misunderstood and the underdogs.

Genre:
The band branched out into the genre of Punk Rock, tinged with a mix of Grunge and Alternative Metal. Their music is characterized by heavy guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and emotive vocals.

Title:
The song is titled “Chains of Deceit”.

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G D Em
Walking down the street of broken dreams and lies,
C G D Em
Seeing through the veil, the world in disguise.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Chains of deceit, we’re born to resist,
C G D Em
Fighting the system, we persist.

(Verse 2)
C G D Em
Washed by the rain of hypocrisy and greed,
C G D Em
Bearing the pain, sowing the seed.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Chains of deceit, we’re born to resist,
C G D Em
Fighting the system, we persist.

(Outro)
C G D Em
Chains of deceit, break free or exist,
C G D Em
In the end, Rotten Sin will persist.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a young girl named Liza Smith. Liza found solace in Rotten Sin’s music during her toughest times. She shares: “Rotten Sin is not just a band for me, it’s a lifeline. Their music is raw, real, and relatable. It gives voice to feelings that I’ve often struggled to express. It’s like they know the chaos within me, and every song is a cathartic release. They are my favorite band because they make me feel seen, heard, and less alone in my struggles.”

Backstory:
Self-Assured Option is a band of five friends who have known each other since high school in the small town of Westchester, Pennsylvania. They started as a garage band, practicing after school and during weekends in the drummer’s basement. Their bond was formed from countless hours of jamming, sharing their dreams and fears, and a shared belief in the power of music to communicate life’s deepest emotions. Their music reflects their journey from adolescence to adulthood and mirrors the joys, heartbreaks, victories, and disappointments that each member has encountered.

After high school, all the band members decided to take a year off before heading to college. It was during this year that they decided to take a leap of faith and pursue their shared dream of turning their love for music into a career. They packed their bags and moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where they began to perform at local bars and clubs. Their music soon caught the attention of a local record label, which offered them a contract. From then on, they have made a name for themselves on the Nashville music scene and beyond.

Genre:
Alternate Rock Country

Title:
“Beneath the Whiskey Moon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Beneath the whiskey moon, [D] her silhouette does sway,
[Em] Dancing to our song, [C] in that old familiar way.
[G] Her laughter fills the night, [D] as she looks into my eyes,
[Em] Amid the neon lights, [C] she’s my sweet surprise.

(Chorus)
[G] Beneath the whiskey moon, [D] where the stars don’t dare to shine,
[Em] She’s my saving grace, [C] in this crazy life of mine.
[G] With every strum of my guitar, [D] and every tune I croon,
[Em] I find myself right there with her, [C] beneath the whiskey moon.

(Verse 2)
[G] Her smile lights up the night, [D] like a beacon in the dark,
[Em] I’m lost in her eyes, [C] she’s left her mark.
[G] She sways to the rhythm, [D] of my lonely heart’s tune,
[Em] Every night it’s just us two, [C] beneath the whiskey moon.

(Chorus)
[G] Beneath the whiskey moon, [D] where the stars don’t dare to shine,
[Em] She’s my saving grace, [C] in this crazy life of mine.
[G] With every strum of my guitar, [D] and every tune I croon,
[Em] I find myself right there with her, [C] beneath the whiskey moon.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Maggie

Testimonial:
“I first stumbled upon Self-Assured Option at a small bar in Nashville. Their music has a unique depth and authenticity to it, filled with real emotions that resonate with me. As a fan, what makes this band my favourite is not just their amazing music, but their incredible humility and genuine love for their fans. You can feel their passion in each song they perform, and it’s that passion that keeps me coming back for more.”

BACKSTORY:

Clear-Cut Ceiling is a band composed of four childhood friends from a small town in Nebraska – Oliver, Max, Finn and Bailey. Growing up together, they developed a shared love for music and spent their afternoons practicing in Oliver’s garage. After graduating high school, the tight-knit group decided to take their passion for music to the next level and formed Clear-Cut Ceiling. The name signifying their collective dream to break through any boundaries or ceilings that may limit their creative expression.

The band started playing local gigs and soon their unique sound generated a buzz in the underground music community. A self-produced EP got the attention of a New York City-based record executive who signed them immediately. Since then, Clear-Cut Ceiling has been making their mark on the music scene, always staying true to their roots while bringing something fresh and raw to the table.

GENRE:

Indie Rock

TITLE:

“Cloudy Skies”

FULL SONG LYRICS:

(Verse 1)
Am Dm G C
Underneath the cloudy skies,
Am Dm G C
Dreams are lost but hopes are high.
Am Dm G C
Clear-Cut Ceiling, we sing our song,
Am Dm G C
Together, here’s where we belong.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Echoes of our past, under the moonlight.
F C G Am
We’re breaking through, reaching the starlight.
F C G Am
Never backing down, come what might,
F C G Am
Clear-Cut Ceiling, we’ll set the night alight.

(Verse 2)
Am Dm G C
From the heartland, dreams unfurled,
Am Dm G C
Four friends against the world.
Am Dm G C
With each chord, each ringing note,
Am Dm G C
In our songs, our stories float.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
F C G Am
Underneath the cloudy skies,
F C G Am
Clear-Cut Ceiling, our spirits rise.

FAVORITE FAN:

Their favorite fan, Sarah, says, “Clear-Cut Ceiling isn’t just my favorite band because of their amazing music, but also because of their authenticity. They’re not just some music industry creation, but real musicians with real passion. And it’s that passion that comes through in every song they play. Their music has been a constant companion through the ups and downs of my life. As a Nebraskan myself, their story resonates with me on a deep level. They inspire me to break through my own boundaries and reach for the stars.”

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling city of Detroit in 2010, ‘Soupy Creature’ is an eccentric combination of high school friends: lead vocalist Sarah “Soupy” Campbell, guitarist Cooper “Creature” McCrae, drummer Eddie “Ed” Stevens, and bassist Kai “K” Jenkins. The foursome shared a common love for music, particularly the whimsical sounds of alternative rock and the soulful strains of blues. With Sarah’s soul-stirring vocals, Cooper’s electrifying guitar riffs, Eddie’s heart-thumping drum beats, and Kai’s bass lines that could move mountains, Soupy Creature was born.

Their debut album received mixed reviews, but the band’s dedication and passion for their craft did not waver. This perseverance paid off as their subsequent releases were met with critical acclaim, catapulting them to the forefront of the alternative blues scene. Today, Soupy Creature has carved out their niche in the music world, known for their fusion of alternative rock and blues, creating a unique sound that’s both edgy and soulful.

Genre:
Alternative Blues

Title:
“Anchor of My Soul”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am F C G
In the whirlwind of life, where chaos unfolds,
Am F C G
You are the silence, the anchor of my soul.
Am F C G
When waves crash around, and I lose control,
Am F C G
You’re the lighthouse, guiding me back home.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
You’re the anchor of my soul, in the ocean’s ruthless hold,
F C G Am
In the darkness, in the cold, your love is pure gold.

(Verse 2)
Am F C G
The storms may rage, the winds may blow,
Am F C G
But I’m not afraid, for you are the anchor of my soul.
Am F C G
And in the quiet whispers, your love story is told,
Am F C G
I know I’m safe, you’re the anchor of my soul.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
You’re the anchor of my soul, in life’s relentless roll,
F C G Am
In the wreckage, in the toll, you mend my broken soul.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Molly and Soupy Creature is my favorite band for so many reasons. Their lyrics resonate with me on a deep level. “Anchor of My Soul” helped me through some of the hardest times in my life. It offered comfort during my darkest hours and reminded me that I was not alone. Sarah’s voice is like a soothing balm, while Cooper, Eddie, and Kai’s musical prowess creates a soundscape that is both comforting and invigorating. The band’s collective passion for their craft is palpable in every song they create. Soupy Creature not only creates music, but they also create experiences that stay with you long after the song ends.

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York in 2010, Prudent Gang first got their start as a trio of high school friends performing at local dive bars and open mic nights. The members, comprised of lead vocalist/guitarist Rory “Rooster” O’Shea, drummer Andy “Bones” Anderson, and bassist Bonnie “Boom-Boom” Buchanan, initially bonded over their shared love of music and their mutual sense of responsibility towards their community. They chose the name Prudent Gang to reflect their wise and measured approach to life and music. Despite their calculated approach, the band is known for their exuberant performances and for pushing the boundaries of their genre.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Underneath Brooklyn Skies”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Intro: [C – Am – Em – G] x2)

Verse 1:
[C] Down by the river, [Am] under Brooklyn skies,
[Em] We found our freedom, [G] in each other’s eyes.
[C] We played our music, [Am] for the city’s soul,
[Em] And found our rhythm, [G] where the subway rolls.

Chorus:
[F] Underneath Brooklyn Skies, [C] we’re making our stand,
[G] With guitars in our hands, [Am] and dreams in our heads.
[F] In the heart of the night, [C] with the city’s heartbeat
[G] We sing our songs, [Am] on the concrete.

(Repeat Intro)

Verse 2:
[C] We’ve danced with shadows, [Am] and we’ve kissed the light,
[Em] We’ve painted stories, [G] in the heart of the night.
[C] We are the prudent gang, [Am] chasing our dreams,
[Em] Echoing our laughter, [G] in the city’s screams.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
[Dm] We are the poets, [F] we are the thieve,
[C] In the city that never sleeps, [G] we believe.

(Repeat Chorus)

Outro:
[C] Underneath Brooklyn Skies, [Am] we found our song,
[Em] We’re the Prudent Gang, [G] where we belong.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Tiffany Martinez

“I’ve been a devout follower of Prudent Gang since their early days. Their music speaks to the soul of Brooklyn and resonates with my own experiences. The song ‘Underneath Brooklyn Skies’ particularly moves me because it embodies the enchanting, rough, and beautiful spirit of our city. Their music is raw, honest, and filled with passion. I connect with their lyrics on a deep level, and their energetic performances never fail to captivate me. Prudent Gang isn’t just my favorite band, they’re an essential part of my life.”

Backstory:

Warm Girls was formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in the summer of 2013. School friends Lisa Jane (vocals), Marianne “Mari” Thompson (bass), and sisters Rachel and Rebecca Hartman (guitar and drums, respectively) had a shared love for music and a burning desire to bring their unique sound to the world. They started as a garage band, practicing in the Hartman’s backyard, and quickly gained local fame for their quirky, energetic performances and undeniably catchy songs. Their big break came when they were spotted by a talent scout at a local music festival, leading to their first record deal.

Warm Girls’ music reflects their vibrant personalities and the ups and downs of their journey, filled with the spirit of independence, friendship, and an adventurous outlook on life. Their music continues to be a source of inspiration and empowerment for their fans worldwide.

Genre:

Indie Pop

Title:

“Rays of Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] In the heat of the day, under the [Am] Brooklyn sun
[G] You and I, we found our [F] way, our journey just begun
[C] Sweet melodies on the radio, [Am] as we chased our dreams
[G] Warm Girls, making [F] music, creating beautiful scenes

(Chorus)
[C] We are the rays of love, under the [G] summer sun
[Am] Together we rise above, our journey’s [F] just begun
[C] Warm Girls, we’re on fire, [G] in this world of ours
[Am] Strumming the strings of desire, [F] reaching for the stars

(Verse 2)
[C] Through the highs and the lows, [Am] our friendship’s stood the test
[G] From garage shows to sold out [F] arenas, we gave it our best
[C] With every beat, every note, [Am] we poured out our heart
[G] Warm Girls, making history, [F] right from the start

(Chorus)
[C] We are the rays of love, under the [G] summer sun
[Am] Together we rise above, our journey’s [F] just begun
[C] Warm Girls, we’re on fire, [G] in this world of ours
[Am] Strumming the strings of desire, [F] reaching for the stars

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan has to be Madison “Madie” Smith. She’s been with us since our garage days, rain or shine. Here’s her testimonial:

“As a fellow Brooklynite, I’ve been following Warm Girls since their garage band days. Their music has been my constant through high school, college, and now my twenties. It’s like they put into words what I can’t express. Their songs empower me, encourage me, and often resonate with my experiences. They’re more than a band to me, they’re my life anthem. I am beyond proud to be their biggest fan and will continue to support them every step of the way.”

Backstory:

White Cough is the brainchild of four childhood friends- Harrison, George, Tom, and Peter, hailing from the quiet town of Richmond, Virginia. Engulfed by the tranquillity of their surroundings, the band’s formation emerged from their shared passion for music and an urge to break the peace with their profound melodies. In the summer of 2013, they transformed their garage into a music studio and ventured on to their euphonious journey.

Influenced prominently by the sounds of the 70s and 80s, White Cough aimed to fuse classic rock elements with modern tones. Their first EP, launched in 2015, set the base for their music career. After a few twists and turns and experimenting with their sound, they finally found their unique identity that resonated with the audience. Since then, there has been no looking back for the team of White Cough.

Genre:
Classic Rock with Contemporary Fusion

Title:
“Drowning in Silence”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Under the guise of dark, we play,
D A
Fighting the shadows, losing our way,
Em G
In the echoes of the night, we sway,
D A
Drowning in silence, finding our way.

(Chorus)
C G D
Lost in the rhythm, we are the sound,
C G D
Living for the moments, that we’ve found,
C G D
In the silence, we are profound,
C G D
Drowning, yet we’re safe and sound.

(Verse 2)
Em G
Chasing the dreams, in the dead of night,
D A
In the world of shadows, we ignite,
Em G
Under the starlight, oh so bright,
D A
Drowning in silence, holding on tight.

(Chorus)
C G D
Lost in the rhythm, we are the sound,
C G D
Living for the moments, that we’ve found,
C G D
In the silence, we are profound,
C G D
Drowning, yet we’re safe and sound.

Fan’s Testimonial:

White Cough’s most dedicated fan is undoubtedly, Lisa Watson. In her words, “I am in love with the timeless tunes that White Cough creates. Their music takes me back in time and yet, it is something that is entirely their own. It’s like a journey to the past, highlighted with the essence of the present. They perfectly blend the classic and contemporary, and that’s what makes them extraordinary. Their song ‘Drowning in Silence’ is a rollercoaster of emotions. It’s soothing, invigorating, and melancholic, all at the same time. Their music connects, resonates, and stays with me. White Cough is my favorite band because they make music that feels real and raw- it’s like they’re telling my story.”

Backstory:
Imaginary Ray, a five-piece ensemble, was formed in a small garage in the heart of Portland, Oregon in 2008. The band members, childhood friends, found their shared love of music as they grew up together. Lead singer and guitarist, Jude Baxter, bassist, Max Wheeler, drummer, Tommy Shaw, keyboardist, Melinda Ross, and violinist, Lilly Blake, merged their individual musical talents and diverse influences to create a unique sound, initially captivating their local community and gradually gaining international attention.

The band’s breakthrough came in 2012 when their debut album caught the attention of a prominent music producer who happened to stumble across their performance at a local bar. Since then, Imaginary Ray has been consistently climbing the ranks of the music industry, selling out shows worldwide, and captivating audiences with their authenticity and passion.

Genre:
Indie Folk-Rock

Title:
“Shadows in the Light”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1: A, D, E, A]
In the stillness of the night, (A, D)
I feel your silent sighs. (E, A)
Beneath the starry sky, (A, D)
We let our dreams take flight. (E, A)

[Chorus: F#m, D, A, E]
Shadows in the light, (F#m, D)
In your eyes, I find my fight. (A, E)
In the echoes of the night, (F#m, D)
We’re shadows dancing in the light. (A, E)

[Verse 2: A, D, E, A]
Through the drizzle, through the rain, (A, D)
We’ve shared laughter, we’ve shared pain. (E, A)
In the silence, love remains, (A, D)
In this dance, life’s sweet refrain. (E, A)

[Chorus: F#m, D, A, E]
Shadows in the light, (F#m, D)
In your eyes, I find my might. (A, E)
In the echoes of the night, (F#m, D)
We’re shadows dancing in the light. (A, E)

Favorite Fan:
Liz Harper

Liz Harper’s Testimonial:
“Discovering Imaginary Ray was like finding a precious gem in a sea of stones. Their music is a perfect blend of folk and rock that instantly resonates with my soul. I have had the privilege of attending multiple concerts, and each one is a unique, magical experience. Their song, ‘Shadows in the Light,’ is my absolute favorite. The lyrics are profound, and the melody has a way of gently tugging at your heartstrings. Imaginary Ray’s music is a constant companion in life’s journey, providing solace and joy in equal measure. I can’t wait to see where their musical journey takes them, and I’ll be their ardent fan every step of the way.”

Backstory:
Sociable Month, a four-piece band from the heart of Austin, Texas, came into existence in the spring of 2015. The band members, childhood friends Ryan, Scott, Ethan, and Michael, decided to form Sociable Month after a series of impromptu jam sessions in Michael’s basement. The name ‘Sociable Month’ came from an old Texas saying that the boys’ parents would often use to describe a particularly busy or social period of time. Over the years, they have grown to create a unique and intoxicating sound that is as deep and diverse as their friendship.

The band scored their first major gig in 2016 at the renowned SXSW festival, garnering the attention of both fans and critics. Despite their rising fame, the members of Sociable Month remain down-to-earth and have stayed true to their roots, frequently performing at local venues and engaging with their loyal fanbase.

Genre:
Sociable Month is known for their eclectic blend of blues-rock and indie folk, with a dash of country twang, reflecting their Texan roots.

Title:
“Blue Skies and Dusty Boots”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em
Underneath the blue skies, we’re walking
D
With our dusty boots and a song
Em
In the heart of Texas, we’re dreaming
D
Of a place where we belong

[Chorus]
C
Blue skies, keep on shining
G
Dusty boots, keep on walking
D
Through every winding road
C
And every tale untold

[Verse 2]
Em
In the heat of the day, we’re singing
D
With our dreams as big as the sky
Em
In the cool of the night, we’re believing
D
In a love that won’t say goodbye

[Chorus]
C
Blue skies, keep on shining
G
Dusty boots, keep on walking
D
Through every winding road
C
And every tale untold

[Bridge]
Am
We’re a long way from home, but we’re not alone
D
With the music, we’ll keep on going

[Chorus]
C
Blue skies, keep on shining
G
Dusty boots, keep on walking
D
Through every winding road
C
And every tale untold

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
“My name is Jenny Thompson. I’ve been a fan of Sociable Month since their first gig at SXSW in 2016. Their music has this unique sound that’s earnest and heartfelt, and you can’t help but feel connected to their stories. The boys always make time to interact with their fans – you don’t get that with bigger bands. They’re not just musicians; they’re friends. I’ve been to every live show in Austin; their performances are electrifying. There’s just something about their music that makes you feel like you’re part of a bigger story, part of this wonderful, sociable month.”