Giving Green

Backstory:

Giving Green was born out of a chance meeting at a local open mic night in Portland, Oregon. James “Fir” McKinley, a bluesy, soulful guitarist, was captivated by the hauntingly beautiful voice of Willow Reed, a folksy singer-songwriter. The duo bonded over their shared passion for music and their common goal to use their talents to promote environmental awareness. They decided to form a band, “Giving Green,” not only as a tribute to their love for music but also as an expression of their commitment to the planet. They quickly attracted attention with their moving performances and harmony-rich, lyrically driven songs, all focused on the beauty of nature and the pressing need to protect our environment.

After a few years of touring and recording, Giving Green expanded to include bassist Cedar Johnson and percussionist Lily Rivers, completing their signature sound. The band has since developed a devoted following, known as “The Greenies,” who appreciate the band’s unique fusion of musical styles and their dedication to making a difference.

Genre:
Folk-Rock

Title:
“Seeds in the Wind”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Underneath the whispering [G] willows,
[Am] By the river’s gentle [Em] bend,
[F] We’ve planted our dreams like [C] seeds in the wind,
[G] Hoping they’ll take root and then [C] ascend.

(Chorus)
[C] Seeds in the wind, [G] carried away,
[Am] Dreams taking flight, [Em] finding their way.
[F] In this wide, wide world, [C] where we begin,
[G] We are just seeds thrown in the [C] wind.

(Verse 2)
[C] Amid the valleys and the [G] mountains,
[Am] Underneath the sun that’s [Em] been,
[F] We’ve sown our hopes like [C] seeds in the wind,
[G] Waiting for a new day to [C] begin.

(Chorus)
[C] Seeds in the wind, [G] carried away,
[Am] Dreams taking flight, [Em] finding their way.
[F] In this wide, wide world, [C] where we begin,
[G] We are just seeds thrown in the [C] wind.

(Bridge)
[Am] From dust to dust, the [Em] cycle spins,
[F] We are but travelers, [G] borne on the wind.

(Chorus)
[C] Seeds in the wind, [G] carried away,
[Am] Dreams taking flight, [Em] finding their way.
[F] In this wide, wide world, [C] where we begin,
[G] We are just seeds thrown in the [C] wind.

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

Fan: Olive Thompson

“My name is Olive, and I’ve been a dedicated ‘Greenie’ since Giving Green’s first album. Their music isn’t just beautiful; it’s a call to action. Their lyrics inspire me to do more for our planet, and their melodies are like echoes of the natural world. Giving Green’s dedication to environmental awareness is as moving as their music. They remind us all that we’re not just occupants of this world, but caretakers. Their song ‘Seeds in the Wind’ is my all-time favorite. It’s a beautiful metaphor for our journey in life and our responsibility to the earth. Nothing soothes my soul more than their harmonious blend of guitar, bass, and percussion, paired with Willow’s ethereal voice. I’m proud to be a Greenie!”

Virtuous Sugar

Backstory:
Virtuous Sugar is a powerhouse quartet that originated in the heart of Austin, Texas. Formed in 2014, childhood friends Peter Smith (lead vocals, guitar), Daniel Hopkins (bass), and twins Emily and Erica Foster (keyboard and drums, respectively) decided to take their passion for music beyond their basement jam sessions. They chose the name Virtuous Sugar to represent their pure, unadulterated love for music and their sweet, down-to-earth personalities. The band started out playing in small bars around Texas before their unique sound caught the attention of a local record label executive.

Fueled by their shared love of exploring different musical styles, Virtuous Sugar crafted a sound that uniquely blended southern rock, pop, and soul, creating a genre that is distinctively their own. They gained national attention following the release of their debut album in 2016, and they quickly became known for their high-energy performances, engaging lyrics, and infectious melodies.

Genre:
Southern Rock / Pop / Soul

Title:
“Sweet Rebellion”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
G D Em C
Sitting on the edge of this old town,
Feeling all the weights that hold us down,
But there’s a spark in you, a spark in me,
A promise of what we could be.

(Chorus)
D G C D
Sweet Rebellion, in the hot summer air,
Awakening the dreams, we used to share.
Sweet Rebellion, won’t you take us there,
To a place where love is our only care.

(Verse 2)
G D Em C
The road is long, the journey’s tough,
But with you, my dear, it’s never enough.
We’ll break these chains, we’ll set us free,
Underneath this old sycamore tree.

(Chorus)
D G C D
Sweet Rebellion, under the Texan sky,
Fueling our hearts, with your lullaby.
Sweet Rebellion, won’t you make us fly,
On wings of hope that never die.

(Bridge)
Em C G D
Tonight, we’ll light the path,
No fear, no looking back.
With our hearts as our guide,
In Sweet Rebellion, we’ll take the ride.

(Chorus)
D G C D
Sweet Rebellion, in the hot summer air,
Awakening the dreams, we used to share.
Sweet Rebellion, won’t you take us there,
To a place where love is our only care.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:
Name: Joe Thompson
Testimonial:
“Virtuous Sugar is more than just a band to me, they’re like a musical lifeline. Their songs resonate with me and have helped me through some tough times. I’ve seen them live three times and each performance was more electrifying than the last. Peter, Daniel, Emily, Erica… they aren’t just musicians, they’re storytellers, and their stories touch the heart. That’s why Virtuous Sugar will always be my favorite band.”

Elegant Structure

Backstory:

Elegant Structure started as the brainchild of childhood friends, Mark Everett and Jacob Miller in the sleepy town of Winslow, Maine. Mark, a pianist with a penchant for creating hauntingly beautiful melodies, and Jacob, a lyricist armed with an uncanny ability to craft stories through his words, found their common ground in music. After winning the local talent show in their senior year of high school, they decided to take their music to the next level. With the addition of Daniel Philips on drums and Sarah Giles on bass, the band was complete. The quartet moved to Boston to chase their dreams, playing gigs at local bars and working on their music in a rented garage, which they affectionately referred to as ‘The Structure’.

Genre:

Rock/Alternative

Title:

“Shadows on the Wall”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C#m – A – E – B
There is a silence in the city (C#m)
A quiet you can’t ignore (A)
In the echoes of the alleyways (E)
There’s a story yet to explore (B)

(Chorus)
C#m – A – E – B
Shadows on the wall (C#m)
In the darkness they fall (A)
A tale to recall (E)
In this city enthralled (B)

(Verse 2)
C#m – A – E – B
There’s a rhythm in the chaos (C#m)
A melody in the noise (A)
In the whispers of the wind (E)
There’s an elegant voice (B)

(Chorus)
C#m – A – E – B
Shadows on the wall (C#m)
In the twilight they crawl (A)
This is our call (E)
To the city we enthrall (B)

(Bridge)
E – B – C#m – A
This is not a tale of fall (E)
It’s the rise of us all (B)
In the shadows tall (C#m)
We stand unappalled (A)

(Chorus)
C#m – A – E – B
Shadows on the wall (C#m)
In the dawn they install (A)
A tale of gall (E)
To the city enthralled (B)

(Outro)
C#m – A – E – B
Shadows on the wall (C#m)
In the light they enthrall (A)
A tale to recall (E)
In this city we install (B)

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Elegant Structure’s favorite fan is a Boston native named Heather Clark who saw them perform at a local bar during their early days. Heather has shown unwavering support for the band, attending nearly every local show and promoting them tirelessly on social media. In her words, “Elegant Structure is more than just a band to me. They’re the soundtrack of my life, their lyrics resonate with my deepest emotions and experiences. Mark’s melodies are the echo of my heart’s rhythm. I’ve seen them grow from a local band to a recognized name in the rock scene, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for them. They truly are an elegant structure of music and emotion.”

Tasty Sensation

Backstory:

Born in the heart of Los Angeles, Tasty Sensation was formed in 2015, combining the diverse musical backgrounds of its five members. The band is made up of lead vocalist Annie, bassist Mark, guitarist Jason, drummer Scott, and keyboardist Ella. What began as a spontaneous jam session at a local music festival quickly escalated into a full-blown musical affair, with the group discovering a shared passion for creating unique melodies and resonating rhythms. Their undeniable chemistry and energetic performances quickly garnered attention, landing them gigs at local spots and eventually earning a record deal.

The band faced its fair share of struggles, from lineup changes to disagreements over musical direction. However, their shared love for music and shared determination saw them through these tough times. They became a tight-knit group, their camaraderie and mutual respect shining through in the music they make, and keeping their fans eager for more.

Genre:

Indie Pop

Title:

“Strawberry Skies”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em C
Underneath the strawberry skies,
G D
I found a love that was a surprise.
Em C
Your sweet voice, your gentle touch,
G D
It’s a flavor that I can’t get too much.

[Chorus]
Em C
Tasty sensation, under the sun,
G D
Our hearts beating as one.
Em C
Sweet like a melody, wild and free,
G D
This is where we’re meant to be.

[Verse 2]
Em C
We dance beneath the cherry blossoms,
G D
In your arms, I feel awesome.
Em C
Your laughter is a song,
G D
In this place, we belong.

[Chorus]
Em C
Tasty sensation, under the moon,
G D
Can’t help but swoon.
Em C
Sweet like a symphony, pure and true,
G D
All I need is you.

[Bridge]
Em C
With you, life is a feast,
G D
My love, to say the least.

[Chorus]
Em C
Tasty sensation, under the stars,
G D
No matter where we are.
Em C
Sweet like a serenade, forever new,
G D
I’ll always choose you.

[Outro]
Em C
Underneath the strawberry skies,
G D
You are my sweet surprise.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Sophia Luna. Sophia has been with us from the start, attending each of our gigs, rain or shine. She not only supports us by purchasing our records and merchandise but also actively promotes us on social media. Her dedication and love for our music have touched us deeply.

Testimonial (Sophia Luna):

“From the moment I first heard Tasty Sensation, I was hooked. Their music has a unique flavor that’s both sweet and exciting. It’s like a burst of happiness in every beat, each song a new adventure. Their amazing energy and talent have made them my favorite band. Their music touches the heart and moves the soul. They bring color to my black and white world. I am proud to be their fan and will continue to support them on their musical journey.”

Crushing Studio

Backstory:

Crushing Studio started off in an old, run-down building in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee. The bandmates – Darwin, Remy, and Sam – were childhood friends who shared a love for music and an insatiable desire to create something extraordinary. Darwin, the lead guitarist and vocalist, worked in a music store, spending his days tuning guitars and dreaming about playing them on stages worldwide. Remy, a piano prodigy with a knack for creating catchy melodies, worked as a bartender, serving drinks to the city’s vibrant music scene. Sam, the drummer, was a mechanic by day and a passionate musician by night. They decided to move into the dilapidated studio, and thus ‘Crushing Studio’ was born.

The band started gaining attention after their impromptu performances in local bars and clubs, with their unique sound resonating with the audience. They garnered a small but loyal fanbase, and their music began playing on local radio stations. Their story is the embodiment of the classic rock ‘n roll dream, as they struggled and fought their way from a small, forgotten studio to the hearts and ears of their fans.

Genre:
Rock/Alternative

Title:
“Rusted Chains”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

Verse 1: (C, G, Am, Em)
Woke up this morning, in a broken-down dream, (C, G)
Rusted chains tying me to this old routine. (Am, Em)
The city’s alive, but I’m feeling so dead, (C, G)
Longing for freedom, for the open road ahead. (Am, Em)

Chorus: (F, C, G)
Rusted chains, you can’t hold me (F, C)
The world is calling, it’s time to be free (G)
Broken dreams, but hope isn’t lost (F, C)
I’ll break these rusted chains, no matter the cost (G)

Verse 2: (C, G, Am, Em)
The city’s lights are fading, the night’s closing in, (C, G)
Rusted chains, you won’t win. (Am, Em)
With music as my fuel, and passion as my guide, (C, G)
I’ll break free from these rusted chains, with my friends by my side. (Am, Em)

(Repeat chorus)

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

“Hi, there! I’m Billy, Crushing Studio’s number one fan! There’s just something about their music that speaks to me. With every strum, beat, and lyric, I feel like they’re telling my story. The raw passion and authenticity in their music are hard to come by these days. The way they’ve fought for their dreams, their journey from the old, beat-up studio to the big stage, it’s inspiring! And their song ‘Rusted Chains’ hits me right in the feels every time. I can’t help but cheer for these boys and their music. They’re more than a band to me; they’re a symbol of hope and resilience.”

Double Charter

Backstory:

Double Charter was born out of the twin aspirations of two childhood friends, Mike Brandt and Neil Haggerty. Both raised in their small town of Cedarville, Illinois, they quickly bonded over their shared love of music and were known throughout high school as the dynamic duo of local open mics. Mike, with his gritty vocals and guitar, and Neil, with his skill on the drums, intrigued the local music scene early on. It wasn’t until a trip to Nashville in their late twenties that Double Charter truly began its journey. They caught the attention of the legendary producer, Ricky Dallas, who saw their raw talent and saw potential in their innovative sound. Thus, Double Charter was officially formed, and from there, the two embarked on an adventure that has since transcended their small-town beginnings.

Genre:
Alternative Country Rock

Title:
“Fading Echo”

Full Song Lyrics:

[VERSE 1]
Am G F C
We were born at the edge of the world,
Am G F C
In the heart of a small town’s swirl.
Am G F C
Chasing dreams down the old dirt road,
Am G F C
Promising not to let them go.

[CHORUS]
G F C G
We are the echo, fading in the wind,
G F C G
The double charter, where the future begins.
G F C G
Leave our mark, as we dance with the stars,
Am G F C
Two small town boys, with big city guitars.

[VERSE 2]
Am G F C
Found our way to the city’s glow,
Am G F C
But home’s where the heart chose to go.
Am G F C
With every beat, our music flows,
Am G F C
Back to the roots, where it all grows.

[CHORUS]
G F C G
We are the echo, fading in the wind,
G F C G
The double charter, where the future begins.
G F C G
Leave our mark, as we dance with the stars,
Am G F C
Two small town boys, with big city guitars.

Favorite Fan’s Name, Testimonial:
Name: Sarah Mitchell

“Double Charter is more than just a band to me – they’re like a piece of home that I carry with me. Their music truly resonates with my own experiences of growing up in a small town and dreaming big. Their song ‘Fading Echo’ is my personal anthem. It reminds me of my roots and inspires me to keep pushing for my dreams, no matter where I am. Mike and Neil’s authenticity in their music is what sets them apart. As a fan, I feel seen and understood. Double Charter is a testament to the power of friendship and the beautiful journey of chasing dreams.”

Green Art

Backstory:

Green Art originated in the bustling music scene of Portland, Oregon, around 2012. The members, vocalist/guitarist Jake Jennings, bassist Oliver “Ollie” White, and drummer Erin Harper, met while studying at Reed College. They shared an affinity for music, environmental activism, and classic literature, which served as the foundation of their band. Their name, Green Art, signifies their commitment to sustainable artistry and their goal to raise environmental consciousness through their music.

After years of playing small bars and open mics around Portland, their indie-alternative style started attracting attention. Green Art got their big break when their demo was noticed by a local radio station, propelling them to regional stardom. Their compelling lyrics, catchy melodies, and impassioned performances continue to win hearts and send powerful messages about the environment.

Genre:

Indie-Alternative

Title:

“Canvas of the World”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Looking at the canvas of the [D] world,
[Em] Brush strokes of green and blue un[G]furled,
[D] Rivers run like paint drips, [Em] mountains stand tall,
[G] We’ve got to protect it, [D] it’s ours after [Em] all.

(Chorus)
[C] We are the artists, [G] we hold the brush,
[D] Let’s paint a world where [Em] no one’s in a rush,
[C] We’ve got the power, [G] to heal or destroy,
[D] Let’s choose love, let’s choose [Em] joy.

(Verse 2)
[G] Skies are our palette, [D] trees our muse,
[Em] There’s so much beauty, [G] so much to lose,
[D] Oceans are crying, [Em] forests are pleading,
[G] It’s not just our heart, [D] it’s the earth that’s [Em] bleeding.

(Chorus)
[C] We are the artists, [G] we hold the brush,
[D] Let’s paint a world that’s [Em] just and fair,
[C] We’ve got the power, [G] to make a change,
[D] Let’s use it and show [Em] that we care.

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is Mia Thompson. Mia was initially drawn to Green Art due to their advocacy for environmental sustainability, a cause she holds close to her heart as a marine biology student. She says, “Green Art is my favorite band because their music isn’t just enjoyable—it’s meaningful. Their lyrics are poetry that speaks to the soul and calls for action. They’re not just musicians, they’re revolutionaries using their platform to inspire change. The way they blend activism with artistry is simply captivating.”

Subdued Shop

Backstory:

Subdued Shop was born in 2012 in the heart of Boston when college roommates, Jackson and Lucas, found common ground in their love for alternative music and philosophy. They started off by doing small gigs at local bars and coffee shops, drawing inspiration from their college experiences, the city’s vibrant culture, and the world around them. A couple of years later, they were joined by Serena, a talented drummer they met at a local open mic night, and Zack, a bassist friend from high school. This was the point when Subdued Shop truly came into their own, developing a unique sound that captivated the local audience and soon gained recognition on a national level.

Genre:

Alternative Rock / Indie Folk

Title:

“Coffee Shop Philosophy”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – E – G – D
Wandering minds in a coffee shop,
Am – E – G – D
Life’s sweet brew, Conversations that never stop.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – E
Life’s a sublime philosophy,
C – G – Am – E
In this quiet corner, We let our souls free.

(Verse 2)
Am – E – G – D
Under the dim light, we laugh and cry,
Am – E – G – D
Soak in the wisdom, let time fly by.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – E
With each sip, we unfold a story,
C – G – Am – E
In this sanctuary, We find our glory.

(Bridge)
F – C – G – D
In these hushed tones, we find our truth,
F – C – G – D
In this subdued shop, we find our youth.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – E
Life’s a sublime philosophy,
C – G – Am – E
In this quiet corner, We set our spirits free.

Fan Testimonial:

Named as Emma Watson, “Subdued Shop has been my favorite band since I first caught their performance at a local bar in Boston. Their lyrics resonate with my soul and their sounds take me on an emotional journey. Their song, “Coffee Shop Philosophy”, particularly touches me – it’s soothing yet provocative, and beautifully captures the essence of introspection and camaraderie. It’s more than just music, it’s an authentic experience.”

Likable Decision

Backstory:

Likable Decision was formed in 2003 in the sunny city of Miami, Florida. The band was born from the serendipitous meeting of lead singer Tyler Johnson and drummer Madison Ford during a high school music class. Little did they know, their love for music and strong mutual appreciation of the classics would lead to the creation of a band that quickly became the talk of their town, before making a mark on the global music scene. When talented guitarist Lucas Peters and bassist Emma Grant joined the duo, Likable Decision was officially born.

The rise of the band wasn’t always smooth and their journey was marked by struggles, heartbreak, and numerous gigs at small-town venues. However, their passion for music and relentless dedication kept them going. Their big break came in 2007, when renowned music producer, Greg Collins, saw them perform in a small club in Miami. He was so impressed by their music and raw talent that he signed them under his label, taking Likable Decision from local fame to international stardom.

Genre:

Pop Rock

Title:

“Uncharted Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Dm Am
We set sail on the sea of dreams,
C G
Looking for love in far off themes.
Dm Am
Map in hand, compass spinning,
C G
In our hearts, the hope was winning.

(Chorus)
Am C G Dm
Uncharted hearts, sailing through the dark,
Am C G Dm
Looking for a spark, in the unknown mark,
Am C G Dm
Guided by the stars, uncharted hearts, we are.

(Verse 2)
Dm Am
Chasing shadows, chasing sunsets,
C G
Haven’t found our treasure yet.
Dm Am
Storms may try to pull us under,
C G
But our hearts will never surrender.

(Chorus)
Am C G Dm
Uncharted hearts, sailing through the dark,
Am C G Dm
Looking for a spark, in the unknown mark,
Am C G Dm
Guided by the stars, uncharted hearts, we are.

(Outro)
Dm Am
So, here’s to the journey, here’s to the start,
C G
With uncharted hearts, we’ll never be apart.

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan’s name is Lily Anderson. She fell in love with the band at a local gig during their early days, and has been a dedicated follower ever since. Lily says, “Likable Decision is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a personal level. Their lyrics are much more than just words, they narrate stories, inspire hope, and have helped me through some tough times. I can always count on their music to uplift my mood. And as people, they’re genuine and humble. I’ve met them a few times during fan events, and they always make it a point to interact and connect with their fans. They truly are a likable band making likable decisions.”

Husky Kingdom

Backstory:
In the heart of the chilly Alaskan wilderness, a group of like-minded individuals forged a unique bond over their shared love of music and huskies. Born from their mutual passion, ‘Husky Kingdom’ was formed in 2016. The group is comprised of lead vocalist and guitar player John ‘Frostbite’ McAllister, drummer Bella ‘Ice Queen’ Thompson, bassist Micky ‘Eskimo’ Jones, and keyboardist Sarah ‘Snowflake’ Johnson. The band members all share a deep love for their canine companions, and it was their huskies that brought them together in the first place. Their music reflects their bond with their huskies and the harsh yet beautiful landscapes of Alaska.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: ‘Howl on the Wind’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Out here in the wilderness, [D] under the cold blue sky.
[Em] Huskies running free, [C] a freedom you can’t buy.
[G] Their howls echo in the wind, [D] a song so raw and wild.
[Em] Their spirit is what we [C] embody in our child.

(Chorus)
[G] Howl on the wind, [D] free as the breeze.
[Em] Sing us a song, [C] through the frosty trees.
[G] Bark at the moon, [D] under the stars,
[Em] You’re our inspiration, [C] no matter where we are.

(Verse 2)
[G] Their paws imprint on the snow, [D] like our hearts on this land.
[Em] Their eyes shine with a unique glow, [C] in this husky band.
[G] The cold never bothered us, [D] we’re warm with canine love.
[Em] Their spirit guides our music, [C] echoing from above.

(Chorus)
[G] Howl on the wind, [D] free as the breeze.
[Em] Sing us a song, [C] through the frosty trees.
[G] Bark at the moon, [D] under the stars,
[Em] You’re our muse, our inspiration, [C] no matter where we are.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Kayla Thompson, a dedicated fan who discovered ‘Husky Kingdom’ while searching for music that resonated with her love for her husky, Shadow.

Kayla’s Testimonial:
“Husky Kingdom isn’t just a band, it’s a lifestyle that reflects the bond I share with my husky, Shadow. Their music is raw, passionate, and speaks directly to my heart. When I listen to their songs, it’s like embarking on a magical journey through the Alaskan wilderness. Every lyric, every chord, resonates with Shadow and me. We’re more than just fans, we’re part of the Husky Kingdom family.”