Backstory:
Born and bred in the cultural mixing pot of New York, the members of ‘Pretty Plate’ first crossed paths in their college days. Rory (vocals and guitar), Sammy (bass), and Alex (drums), found each other in the turmoil of youth, united by their shared love for alternative rock and lyrical storytelling. The band’s name, ‘Pretty Plate’, was inspired by their shared apartment’s only piece of dinnerware – a chipped, pastel-blue plate that held many late-night ramen meals and early morning cereal bowls.

‘Pretty Plate’ started their journey playing at college fests and local New York City clubs. As their popularity grew, they found themselves on bigger stages, gaining national attention with their unique sound and honest lyrics. Despite their rise to fame, Pretty Plate has stayed true to their roots, making music that resonates with everyday life and the struggles and triumphs that come with it.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Lost in the Echo”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Look in the mirror, [C] what do you see?
[Em] A reflection of a stranger, [D] or is it just me?
[G] Broken promises, [C] shattered dreams,
[Em] We’re all lost in the echo, [D] or so it seems.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, we’re lost in the echo, [C] lost in the sound,
[Em] Trying to find our way [D] on this battleground.
[G] Can you hear me calling? [C] Can you see my light?
[Em] We’re all just lost in the echo, [D] trying to fight the fight.

(Verse 2)
[G] The city is dark, [C] the night is cold,
[Em] Every face tells a story [D] that’s been untold.
[G] Will we ever find solace? [C] Will we break the mold?
[Em] Or will we remain lost in the echo, [D] growing old?

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, we’re lost in the echo, [C] lost in the sound,
[Em] Trying to find our way [D] on this battleground.
[G] Can you hear me calling? [C] Can you see my light?
[Em] We’re all just lost in the echo, [D] trying to fight the fight.

Favorite fan testimonial:
Meet Emily, a hardcore fan from their early club days. For her, Pretty Plate’s music has always been a safe haven. Their honest lyrics and raw sound resonate with her own experiences. She says, “Pretty Plate’s music is my therapy. Every song they write feels like a page from my own life. They’ve helped me through breakups, loss, and finding myself. I feel seen and understood when I listen to them. That’s why they’re my favorite band.” Emily proudly sports her ‘Lost in the Echo’ tattoo, a testament to her love for their music and the band.

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, Solid Baby is an eclectic quartet of African American musicians who came together in the summer of 2009. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist, Jerry “The Jive” Williams, bassist, Frankie “Funky” Robinson, drummer, Lester “Lightning” Davis, and saxophonist, Ronnie “Razor” Johnson. Solid Baby emerged from the underground jazz scene and the vibrant influence of Brooklyn’s diverse cultures, combining their love for the classics with modern jazz and funk rhythms.

Each member brought a unique vibe to the band, with backgrounds ranging from gospel choirs to hip-hop collectives. This diversity created a blend of sounds that embraced everyone, regardless of their musical preference. The members of Solid Baby often joke that their band name reflects their commitment to their music – it’s solid, and it’s their baby.

Genre:
Jazz-Funk Fusion

Title:
“Bleeding Hearts in Harlem”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am7
Down in Harlem, where the lights are low,
D7
Broken dreams and spirits in the shadow.
Gm7
There’s a rhythm, in the silent hum,
C7
The beating of the drums, where we come from.

(Chorus)
Fmaj7
Bleeding hearts in Harlem, crying out tonight,
Bm7
Underneath the city lights, we stand and fight,
Em7
Oh, the bleeding hearts in Harlem,
A7
Echo in the night, holding on so tight.

(Verse 2)
Am7
Spirits dancing, in the moonlit streets,
D7
To the beat of the city, in the summer heat.
Gm7
There’s a song, painted in the sky,
C7
A melody of love, that never says goodbye.

(Chorus)
Fmaj7
Bleeding hearts in Harlem, reaching for a dream,
Bm7
Each note a story, each chord a theme,
Em7
Oh, the bleeding hearts in Harlem,
A7
Singing through the night, creating their own light.

Fan Favorite Testimonial:
I’m Angela “Angie” Martinez, and Solid Baby is my absolute favorite band. I’ve always been a jazz lover, but the way they infuse funk into their sounds just takes it to a whole new level. Their song “Bleeding Hearts in Harlem” is my anthem. It’s not just music, it’s storytelling. It’s about resilience, it’s about community, and it’s about love. Solid Baby’s music is like a warm blanket on a cold night. It brings comfort and joy, and I can’t imagine a world without their tunes. They are a true representation of the spirit of Brooklyn, and their music speaks to the soul. They are my favorite because they’re not just about the music, they’re about the message.

Backstory:

In the quaint, bustling town of Portland, Oregon, a group of four college students discovered their shared passion for music. These students – Marcus, Eleanor, Liam, and Nina – were not your typical party-goers. They were known for their academic achievements and studious nature. Their friendship blossomed during late-night study sessions, and it wasn’t long before they began jamming together to break the monotony. As their relationship deepened, they decided to form a band that reflected their intellectual pursuits and love for music; thus came ‘Studious Fan’.

Music was their escape, their break from the endless lectures and challenging assignments. It wasn’t long before they started performing at local bars and college parties, earning a reputation for their unique blend of indie rock and intellectual lyrics. Their songs were not just pieces of entertainment but an emotional and intellectual journey infused with their life experiences and academic pursuits. They resonated with many, but one fan stood out, Emily, who was as studious and passionate as them.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

‘Pages of Time’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am B7 Em
Turn the pages of time, tell me what do you find
G D Am
In the chronicles of ages, in the recesses of your mind
Am B7 Em
Do you see the battles fought, or the love that was sought
G D Am
In the whispers of history, what lessons have been taught

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
We are but a moment in the grand cosmic play
C G D (pause)
Fleeting stars in the night, shining bright, then fade away
C G Am Em
Through the pages of time, we seek to find
C G D (pause)
Our place in the universe, with a studious mind

(Verse 2)
Am B7 Em
Within the pages of time, we find the echoes of our kind
G D Am
In the ink of knowledge, in the canvas of our mind
Am B7 Em
Can you hear the symphony played, or the sonnets that were laid,
G D Am
In the orchestra of existence, what melodies have been made

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
We are but a note in the grand cosmic song
C G D (pause)
Sounding loud for a while, then we’re gone
C G Am Em
Through the pages of time, we seek to define,
C G D (pause)
Our role in the music, with a studious mind

Fan:

Emily is the band’s favorite fan. The reason Studious Fan stands out as her favorite band is because she finds an intellectual and emotional connection with their songs. As Emily says, “Their music isn’t just about nice melodies, it’s an intellectual journey. Their songs make you think, question, and reflect. They sing about life, philosophy, history, and the human condition. It’s like attending a philosophy class, but with music. And the best part? It’s relatable. As a student, I see myself in their lyrics, in their stories, and that’s why they are my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Loving Fiction started as a group of four high school friends in Austin, Texas who shared a passion for music and storytelling. The quartet was made up of charismatic frontman, Ethan Hart, talented guitarist, Oliver Mason, bassist Zach Riley, and drummer Anna Thompson. They began by playing at local clubs and college events, quickly gaining popularity for their unique fusion of sounds and heartfelt lyrics. After graduation, they decided to take the risk and devote their time completely to music, releasing their debut album under a local label. The album was a surprise hit, with its unique blend of sounds resonating with a broad audience. The band has not looked back since and has gone on to gain a sizable following.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie Pop

Title:
“Paper Airplanes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Scribbled dreams in diary pages,
C G Am F
Running next to wind, we feel so ageless.
C G Am F
With paper airplanes in our hands,
C G Am F
We’re flying high, no need for landings.

(Chorus)
G Am F
We are the loving fiction,
G Am F
Chasing the horizon as our mission.
G Am F
With the dreams in our hearts, we’re never fearing,
G Am F
In this Loving Fiction, we’re believing.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
Under the stars, we’re singing our stories,
C G Am F
In the rhythm of heartbeats, we find our glories.
C G Am F
With the moonlight in our eyes,
C G Am F
We’re painting dreams in the midnight skies.

(Chorus)
G Am F
We are the loving fiction,
G Am F
Chasing the horizon as our mission.
G Am F
With the dreams in our hearts, we’re never fearing,
G Am F
In this Loving Fiction, we’re believing.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Name: Emily

Testimonial: “I first listened to Loving Fiction during a particularly tough time in my life. Their music, especially ‘Paper Airplanes’, resonated with me on such a deep level that it felt like they were singing my own story. The band’s commitment to their craft and their ability to translate emotions into beautiful melodies is truly commendable. Loving Fiction isn’t just my favorite band; they’re my companions through life’s ups and downs, providing comfort and inspiration when I need it the most.”

Backstory:

Jagged Contract, comprised of four members, was formed in the bustling city of Chicago in 2013. The band includes lead vocalist and guitarist Jordan Smith, drummer Michael Potts, bassist Tom Walters, and keyboardist Sarah Williams. Originally, they were just four friends who shared a passion for music. They started playing together in a small garage, which soon turned into local gigs, and eventually, they made their way to popular music festivals and venues.

Their initial struggle was real. But, as they say, passion fuels determination. So, despite facing multiple challenges, they never gave up on their dreams. With every failure, they decided to learn, grow, and come back stronger. Their unwavering dedication paid off when their self-titled debut album produced a hit single that rocketed them into the mainstream music scene.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Shadow of Regret”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G D
Wandering through the past, lost in the haze
Em Bm C
Staring at the mirror, meeting my gaze
C G D
In the shadow of regret, nothing is clear
Em Bm C
Only the echo of the silence I hear

(Chorus)
G D Em
In the shadow of regret, we dance and we weep
C G D
Underneath the moon, where secrets we keep
G D Em
In the shadow of regret, we find our truth
C G D
In the pain of the past and the folly of youth

(Verse 2)
C G D
The ghost of the past, whispering lies
Em Bm C
In the shadow of regret, a new dawn arise
C G D
We’re bound by the chains of memory’s hold
Em Bm C
In the shadow of regret, stories unfold

(Chorus)
G D Em
In the shadow of regret, we dance and we weep
C G D
Underneath the moon, where secrets we keep
G D Em
In the shadow of regret, we find our truth
C G D
In the pain of the past and the folly of youth

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Jagged Contract’s favorite fan is a young woman named Amy Hart. Amy has been following the band since their early garage days. Despite suffering from a rare medical condition that limits her mobility, she has never missed a single show of Jagged Contract. The band admires her spirit and resilience.

Amy’s Testimonial:

“Jagged Contract isn’t just a band for me; it’s an emotion. Their music resonates with my soul, and their lyrics carry a weight that I can deeply relate to. The band has been a beacon of hope and strength for me in difficult times. Their dedication to their craft and their fans is truly commendable! I feel a strong connection with their music, and it’s like they are singing my story.”

Backstory:
Emerging from the vibrant music scene of Seattle in the early 2000s, Grand Trouble was formed by four friends – Mark, Sam, Jake, and Lisa. Mark, Sam, and Jake played together during their college years, primarily at house parties and local venues. They found their distinctive sound when Lisa, an enigmatic singer who was performing solo at the time, joined them. Their fusion of unique vocals, electric guitar riffs, and a dynamic rhythm section created a fresh sound that swiftly caught the attention of music lovers in and around their hometown.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Running down the streets at night,
Em C G D
Hear the city’s echoing cry,
Em C G D
We’re just silhouettes in the neon lights,
Em C G D
Chasing shadows, as they take flight.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
In the heart of the chaos, we find our peace,
Em C G D
Chasing shadows, in the city’s heartbeat.
Em C G D
Under moonlit skies, on the wild streets,
Em C G D
Chasing shadows, where the heartbeats meet.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Through the winding alleys, under the sable sky,
Em C G D
We’re chasing dreams, as the world goes by.
Em C G D
In the city’s rhythm, we find our rhyme,
Em C G D
Chasing shadows, losing track of time.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
In the heart of the chaos, we find our peace,
Em C G D
Chasing shadows, in the city’s heartbeat.
Em C G D
Under starlit skies, on the wild streets,
Em C G D
Chasing shadows, where the heartbeats meet.

Fan’s Name:
Amy Peterson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Grand Trouble since I first heard their song ‘Chasing Shadows’ at a local gig. Their sound is so unique, blending the raw energy of alternative rock with captivating lyrics and a compelling stage presence. The band’s chemistry is palpable, and it’s clear they love what they do. I’ve been to countless concerts since then, and their music never fails to move me. Whether I’m having a great day or a tough one, their music always hits the right spot. For me, Grand Trouble isn’t just a band; they’re a part of my life’s soundtrack.”

Backstory:
Stark Join was formed in the early 2000s in the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois. The band consists of three friends, Ethan Morgan (lead vocals, guitar), Sam Keller (bass, backing vocals), and Roxanne Davis (drums). They were all college students at different institutions, who started jamming together in their spare time. Their mutual love for music and their unique synergy quickly led them to form a band. Initially, they started by participating in local college fests and house parties where they developed a small but devoted fan base. Their big break came when they competed in a national band competition and walked away with the top prize. This led to a record deal, and Stark Join began their journey in the world of professional music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Heartbeat Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Em G D
Staring at the rain, in the middle of the night
C Em G D
Wondering where you are, are you alright?
C Em G D
You said you needed time, needed space to breathe
C Em G D
But all I hear are heartbeat echoes in the empty breeze

(Chorus)
Am Em G D
Heartbeat echoes, in the silence of the night
Am Em G D
I can feel your presence, even when you’re out of sight
Am Em G D
Your words are like a melody, that plays in my mind
Am Em G D
Heartbeat echoes, you’re the beat I always find.

(Verse 2)
C Em G D
The city sleeps, under the cover of the stars
C Em G D
But I’m awake, thinking of where you are
C Em G D
Wishing on a star, praying for a sign
C Em G D
All I hear are heartbeat echoes, wishing you were mine

(Chorus)
Am Em G D
Heartbeat echoes, in the silence of the night
Am Em G D
I can feel your presence, even when you’re out of sight
Am Em G D
Your words are like a melody, that plays in my mind
Am Em G D
Heartbeat echoes, you’re the beat I always find.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Stark Join’s favorite fan is named Lily Davis. Lily has been a devoted follower since their early days, attending almost every concert and buying every album. She’s known to queue for hours to get front row at their concerts and runs a fanpage dedicated to the band. Her dedication is unmatched. Lily says, “Stark Join’s music speaks to me on a whole other level. Their lyrics resonate with my experiences, and their melodies touch my soul. The authenticity they bring to the stage is mesmerizing. I feel a deep connection with their music and it’s a bond I cherish. They are my favorite band, and I’ll always support them no matter what.”

Backstory:

Born in the hustle and bustle of New York City, Fat Show is a band made up of four childhood friends — Sammy “Slim” McManus on vocals, Billy “Fatty” O’Neal on guitar, Johnny “Bones” Milligan on bass, and Tommy “Fast Hands” O’Connor on drums. They first started playing music together in the basement of O’Neal’s brownstone, covering classic songs from the ’80s and ’90s. They became a fixture at local bars and clubs, quickly gaining a reputation for their energetic performances and infectious enthusiasm. Over the years, their unique sound evolved, blending elements of rock, blues, and indie pop.

Genre:

Garage Rock/Indie Pop

Title:

“Big City Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Big city lights, neon [G] dreams,
Amidst the [Dm] hustle, amidst the [Em] screams.
Down the [F] alley, under the [C] bridge,
Our [G] dreams take flight, just a [C] smidge.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the Fat [C] Show,
Beneath the [Em] city’s neon [Am] glow.
We [F] sing for the joy, [C] we sing for the [G] fight,
Living our [C] dreams under the big city [G] lights.

(Verse 2)
[C] Subway rhythms, graffiti [G] tales,
Lost in the [Dm] city, setting [Em] sails.
Building the [F] dream, brick by [C] brick,
With [G] music as our magic [C] trick.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the Fat [C] Show,
In the [Em] heart of the city’s [Am] ebb and flow.
We [F] sing for the laughs, [C] we sing for the [G] night,
Chasing our [C] dreams under the big city [G] lights.

Favourite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a guy named Charlie Thompson, a taxi driver from Brooklyn. Charlie stumbled upon Fat Show in a small downtown bar and was instantly taken by their raw energy and authentic sound. He claims they remind him of the love and spirit of New York City, capturing its heart in their melodies and lyrics.

Testimonial:

“Fat Show is my favorite band because their music speaks to my soul. Their sound is gritty and real, just like the city we call home. Their songs tell stories of dreams, struggles, and triumphs, resonating deeply with me. I’ve spent countless nights driving around in my cab, Fat Show’s music blasting through the speakers, feeling a sense of belonging and understanding. There’s nothing quite like it!”

Backstory:

Terrible Perception started off as a rebellious garage band in the heart of Chicago in the late 90s. Childhood friends, lead vocalist Kip Whitley, guitarist Vince Hammer, bassist Stu Anderson, and drummer Miles ‘Hawkeye’ Hinton, found solace in creating gritty, unapologetic music that mirrored their struggles with their suburban upbringing. They quickly gained a reputation for their raw performances, emotional lyrics, and experimental soundscapes.

After winning a local battle of the bands competition, they caught the attention of indie record label, Sugarplum Records. Their rise to the underground rock scene was meteoric, owing to their unrelenting energy and unique approach to music. Despite the name, Terrible Perception have a clear vision – to push the boundaries of rock music, while staying true to the spirit of rebellious self-expression.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Indie Rock

Title:

“Scratched Mirrors”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
Scratched mirrors in a dusty hall,
Em G D A
Reflecting pictures of our downfall.
Em G D A
A broken promise with a vacant stare,
Em G D A
Our dreams scatter in the cold night air.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
But we’re louder than the echoes of our past,
C G D Em
Stronger than the shadows that were cast.
C G D Em
We’re the voice of the unheard and unseen,
C G D Em
In a world that’s lost in a digital dream.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
In the chaos, we found our sound,
Em G D A
A terrible perception that’s profound.
Em G D A
We’re not heroes, we’re just being real,
Em G D A
Playing the music that makes us feel.

(Repeat Chorus)

Testimonial (Fan’s Name: Sarah Thompson)

“I’ve been a die-hard fan of Terrible Perception since I happened upon one of their gigs at a local bar in Chicago. Their music has this raw, gritty edge that makes you feel like you’re seeing right into their souls. They’re not just a band; they’re a movement. For me, and lots of other fans, they’ve become a beacon of honesty in a world that often seems too polished and fake. Their song ‘Scratched Mirrors’ really speaks to me and always gives me chills. Terrible Perception is not just my favorite band—they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:

Rich Touch, a legendary band originating from the vibrant music scene of Chicago, came to life in 2008. The band was composed of four childhood friends – Bryan (lead guitarist), Liam (drummer), Rachel (bass guitarist), and Noah (lead vocalist). They grew up in the same neighborhood, where their shared passion for music led to the formation of the band. The name ‘Rich Touch’ was born out of their collective belief that music is the richest and most heartfelt touch anyone can give or receive.

The band had a humble beginning, playing at local bars and small concerts. Their dedication, talent, and unique sound quickly garnered a loyal fan base. The turning point came when their song ‘Under the City Lights’ was featured on a popular radio station, propelling them to unprecedented heights in the music industry. Their journey has been a testament to their belief that music, like a rich touch, has the power to move and inspire.

Genre:

Rock with a blend of Blues

Title:

“Stars in our Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Fmaj7) Strolling down the (G) memory lane,
(Em) Smiling at the (Am) joy, nursing the pain.
(Dm) Underneath the (G) stars, we found our start,
(C) Here we are, with (E7) stars in our heart.

Chorus:
(Am) We are the dreamers, (D) beneath the night sky,
(G) Lighting up the world, with (C) dreams flying high.
(Fmaj7) Hand in hand, we’ll (Em) never part,
(Dm) Underneath the stars, with (G) stars in our heart.

Verse 2:
(Fmaj7) Through the highs and (G) through the lows,
(Em) We found the melody, (Am) that in our heart flows.
(Dm) We played our tunes, (G) we played our part,
(C) Here we are, with (E7) stars in our heart.

Repeat Chorus

Bridge:
(Dm) We sing, we dance, under the (G) moon’s beam,
(C) Lost in the songs, lost in our (Am) dream.
(Fmaj7) Living our passion, playing our (Em) art,
(G) We are Rich Touch, with (E7) stars in our heart.

Repeat Chorus

Favorite Fan’s Name:

Emily

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Rich Touch since their early days. Their music speaks directly to the heart. Every chord they strike resonates with my inner emotions. The band has a unique way of blending rock and blues that creates an irresistible sound, unlike anything I’ve heard before. The song ‘Stars in our Heart’ is deeply moving and my personal favorite. It feels as though they are talking directly to me. Rich Touch isn’t just a band for me, they are a part of my life. They’re my rich touch, my connection to a world of music, emotion, and shared experiences.”