2PM

“2PM Band” is Pete Price, Pete Hennings, and Mike Jurgensen, a trio of talented musicians who blend their varied musical talents into an eclectic mix of material, from original songs, to obscure covers, to well-known standards. With Price on guitar and bass, Hennings on guitar, bass, and mandolin, and Jurgensen on guitar and harmonica, these three performers combine tight instrumentation with pristine vocal harmonies to delight audiences of all musical tastes. "2PM" has released four CDs: “Keepin’ Time”, "Let's Just Play One More", “Writing on the Wall”, and their most recent “Going Back”, just released this year. Contact: info@2pmband.com

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Alana Debow

Alana DeBow is a St. Augustine, Florida native, calling her place of birth home for over 30 years. Growing up in St. Augustine, she was held by and surrounded with both history and music, and sat at the feet of the troubadours of St. Augustine like Will McLean and Gamble Rogers from an early age. 
She is a storyteller and poet at heart whose music will take you on a journey of joy and struggle, hope and inspiration. Her songs begin in times both past and present often telling the stories of those who cannot speak. She finds inspiration in nature sharing the lives of the Florida lands, rivers, and people of times past. “Her songs evoke deep feelings in the listener, her voice is both unique and captivating and draws you in closer with the want to hear more”

Alivia Hunter w/ Victoria Griffin 

Alivia and Victoria have been playing music together for over a decade. They are creative songwriters and multi-instrumentalists with an energetic and soulful style influenced by old-time folk, blues, and poetic pop-rock.

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Amy Carol Webb

She's the girl next door and no ordinary woman, who got her first guitar at age 11 and didn't look back. Likewise, she came to the Florida for the first time more than thirty years ago and knew she was home.From Florida’s rivers to legendary forests of France, from historic festival stages, to the Kennedy Center -- teaching songwriting and voice from kindergarten to university  -- inside prison razor wire and outside in the streets in the name of justice and human rights – she raises the roof and lifts our spirits with beauty, grit, and grace.The press has named her “One for the New Millenium,’ and one of Florida’s “Ten Greatest Folk Singers of All Time.” She just calls herself, the “Songweaver.”

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Aripeka

The band Aripeka is named after the Seminole Indian Leader who successfully defied U.S. Government orders to leave Florida. The band members have been playing together for over 15 years. They enjoy a variety of musical genres and adapt their music to each venue and audience. Its main goal is to engage the audience and have fun. They choose a variety of songs including some oldies that bring back cherished memories. Band Members: Greg Thomas,  Tom Lorich,  Phyllis Lorichm Sue Ann Reichelt and Herb Reichelt 

Bear and Robert

What do you get when you cross a Folkie with a Bluesman? You get Bear and Robert! Bear and Robert (row-bear) are Cindy Bear and Franc Robert, an award winning singer-songwriter duo from Jacksonville, FL. Together their acoustic sound has been described as a deep well of Folk, Blues, and Americana with a high energy Je Nais Se Quois! Their CD’s, “Travels With Bear and Robert,” and “Hearts in Blues,” Franc’s solo and band CD’s, and Cindy’s solo CD “Start Over Again” are available on Itunes, Amazon, Spotify, and on their website at www.bearandrobert.com. “Start Over Again” are available on Itunes, Amazon, Spotify, or on their website at www.bearandrobert.com.  Facebook  Website  YouTube

Bill and Eli Perras

As veteran singer/songwrirters that offer many original Florida folk song's and stories, Bill & Eli Perras' use their gifts to carry on the legacy of the many past and notable Florida folk entertainers. Eli has a unique gift of storytelling and sings tunefully while using American Sign Language to back her voiced words. Bill harmonically backs Eli and uses his award winning finger-style guitar playing style to complete this must see act.

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Bob Patterson

Bob Patterson is a Florida Folk Music Icon with over five decades of fans, has recorded more than 10 albums, and has published two books. He is an environmentalist, serving as a spokesperson for protecting the wild heart of Florida. He received a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ from the Florida Storytelling Association, the ‘Fellow Man and Mother Earth Award’ from the Stetson Kennedy Foundation, and he was a winner in the Best Florida Song competition. In his new book, ‘I Carry My Heroes with Me’, he writes about the people who helped shape his Florida consciousness. These are stories about his heroes and, after you read them, they may become yours.

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Bryan Rivers & Friends

Blending original “tell a story” ballads with wry observations on life, Bryan Rivers & Friends delivers vocally-driven songs in an acoustic-folk style. Bryan, on vocal and guitar, is an accomplished songwriter and performer with 3 albums of original songs and 1 album of traditional American tunes. His original song, Walking Florida, won 2nd prize at the 2003 Willfest Florida Song Contest.  His songwriting reflects his wide travels and life overseas, and his clever wordplay befits his role as a Polk College english professor. Bryan is joined by his long-time “Friends”, Judy Lynch-Kenney and John Kenney, musical collaborators for 45 years. Judy on vocal and mandolin, and John on vocal and guitar, are Florida natives that bring their complementary songwriting skills and americana song styles to the ensemble.

Carly Bak

Carly is an award-winning Singer/Songwriter, performing in and around the Florida Folk circuit with first rate bass player, Jim Rigel and Steve Catania, on mandolin.

She is a Certified Music Practitioner.  Working with various patients, one on one, in need of healing therapy. “I work with patients in ICU, Hospice, and Alzheimer’s patients, but my passion is to reach out to women and children who have suffered abuse and patients who suffer from PTSD. Music has always been my therapy and I know that others will benefit as well.

Charlie Robertson

Set to memorable arrangements framed with simple but bizarre chord voicings ... heartfelt and subtly inventive vocals, populated with characters whose stories are told by no other and like no other ... the songs of Charlie Robertson are one of a kind pieces that have been spread by word of mouth in whispers, shouts, and standing ovations in the darnest places across the eastern seaboard.  Closer to home, Charlie Robertson is revered in the Florida folk community as a true and timeless gem. T

We share the same language, but Charlie Robertson hands it back to us in a way that we've never heard in stories of people we know but nobody else sings the praises of .... he is brilliant. .. exasperating ... fascinating ... challenging ... the master of heartbreaking hilarity and uneasy listening music and well worth an afternoon of your life!  Website 

Chelsea Sadler

Dubbed “The second coming of Joni Mitchell,” Chelsea Saddler has been hailed as the queen of women songwriters – past and present (Florida Times Union). Her lyrical content arises from a deep well of life experiences as a queer woman, adventure, and heartache. As Chelsea played a one hour set on NPR’s “Roots and Branches” in Tennessee, she described her greatest influences as Lightning Hopkins, Leonard Cohen, and Madeline Adams. Originally from Jacksonville, FL, Chelsea has been performing in the southeast for the past two decades with three original albums under her belt. Winner of the city of St. Augustine’s and The Gamble Rogers Folk Festival Songwriting Competitions, Chelsea also placed first in Bokeh Bar’s Comedy Competition in 2017. Website

Chris Kahl

Chris Kahl is a native of Brevard County, and highlights Florida history, characters, and folklore through his original songs.  He has released two Florida-themed albums titled Orange Blossom Memories and Sunshine Kid.  He is also an Artist in Residence in numerous school districts around the state where he educates students about our state’s history through his music.  He looks forward to carrying on the Florida troubadour tradition for years to come.  Website

Chris Kastle

Chris Kastle is an award winning songsmith, storyteller and poet from St. Augustine, Florida. Her performances possess powerful imagery with the occasional flavor of Celtic and Maritime traditions. Her songs reflect a range of styles and can express humor as well as heartache; she is known for inviting her audience to sing along. Chris has released over 15 full length recordings, is a well-reviewed author and has a YouTube Channel with thousands of views. Website    Apple Music

Chuck Hardwicke and the Hartline

Chuck Hardwicke and The Hart Line is a four piece band from Putnam county Florida performing a blend of original Florida songs and old country tunes. Band members are Chuck Hardwicke on backup guitar and vocals, Karan Newman on mandolin and vocals, Dean Parrish on lead guitar and vocals, and Bill Snyder on upright bass and vocals. The group has played many venues around the state including Gamble Rogers Folk Festival, Will McLean Folk Festival and the Florida Folk Festival.

Taking their name from the Hart Line Steamship Company in 2013 they were featured performers at the Florida Folk Festival. Each member of the group contributes vocally adding to the whole sound. Their harmonies produce a a smooth, tight high quality sound for all to enjoy.  YouTube

Corey Hall

Hailing from the Gulf Coast region of Florida, singer-songwriter Corey Hall strikes a harmonious balance between celebrating the roots of blues, drawing inspiration from legends like Mississippi John Hurt to R.L. Burnside, and crafting his own unique brand of music. Through creative exploration, he’s found avenues to cultivate his own voice within the blues genre, representing his profound love for this musical tradition. ‘The Bay County Blues,’ Corey’s debut album, is a testament to his musical journey. Blending past and future in his performances, he leaves his audiences enriched, captivated, and looking for more of the "Old Time" sound.

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Dan Gribbin

David Beede & Janet Rucker Trio

Original and traditional music on dulcimer, banjo, guitar, bowed psaltery, whistle, and standup bass
David Beede, of Melrose FL, has participated in the Will McLean festival for a dozen years. A singer/songwriter and multi instrumentalist
Janet Rucker of Melrose FL is a multi instrumentalist and singer songwriter who performs in many bands.  
Tim Stevens - of Melrose Florida has contributed his exemplary skills as vocalist, guitar and bass in the groups Dim Lights, Dancing Fish and others. He is also an exceptional song writer.

Dean Johanesen

Dean Johanesen - Circus Swing & American Roots Music deanjohanesen.com Originally from Long Island, NY, now residing in the Sarasota FL area, Dean is a songwriter and guitarist inspired by historical fiction, speakeasy era Americana and the sounds of Hot Club Jazz, Western Swing and American Roots Music in the vein of Django Reinhardt, Bob Wills, & Lyle Lovett. Johanesen’s 3rd record titled “Cautionary Tales” is now available on the website and on all streaming platforms.

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Doug Spears w/ Ron and Bari

Doug Spears’ Cracker Collective
Fifth generation Florida native singer / songwriter, Doug Spears, Ron and Bari Litschauer from West Palm Beach, all mainstays of the Florida folk and acoustic music community. The product of decades of friendship and music collaboration between home-grown Florida talents, using Doug’s original tunes as the canvas for eloquent harmonies, clean, tightly performed arrangements and musical stage craft honed by decades of experience. You’re going to like what you hear.

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Emmett Carlisle

Florida songwriter who just finished his 8th CD. A collection of original ukulele songs, “Uke the Planet.” Other Cd’s have the sound of Americana, Blues/grass, and Folk Rock love songs mixed together. Some songs are about the history, environment and characters of the great State of Florida. Emmett plays most of the big Festivals in Florida including the Will McLean Festival, Gamble Rogers Festival, Florida Folk Festival, Sarasota Folk Festival, Clay County Fair, and many venues around the State. Selected to play the Johnson City Folk Festival, Unicoi, Tennessee.
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Florida Cracker Cowboys

The Florida Cracker Cowboys are three childhood friends from the Tampa Bay Area that combine bluegrass, blues, and old rock in their own ruckus style. 

Rory Muñoz, Randy Tucker, Kit Rich

What the heck is Frankie Jay and the Chicken Parade?" one might ask. It's a curious group of like-minded musicians with a particular sense of humor and humanity. Frank Julian, AKA Frankie Jay, leads the parade, followed closely by Curtis Wayne Schaper on bass, Pasco Paul Belmore on dobro, Laird Duran on fiddle and Ron Townsend on percussion. At any performance, other musicians may march along with the parade, always in time and frequently providing harmony.

Frankie Jay and the Chicken Parade play music that is a little bit folk, a little bit bluegrass, and a smattering of rock and roll. Frankie is an award-winning songwriter with an excellent voice, who clearly enjoys leading this band of musicians and those that can be persuaded to add to their ranks at various events.

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Grant Livingston

Singer/Songwriter/Guitarist Grant Livingston has been a Florida favorite since the mid-1980s. Upbeat, with an offbeat sense of humor, Grant Livingston weaves history and the environment into his songs. He has written about South Florida pioneers Henry Flagler and Julia Tuttle, the invasion of the Everglades by Melaleuca trees and pythons, Halley's Comet, armadillos, barnacles, greyhounds and grey cats in graveyards.

 Website 

Grant Peeples

A self-described “tree-hugger that watches NASCAR,” Grant Peeples is known for his axe-sharp socio-political tunes, raucous humor and heart-gigging ballads. He has been a keen observer of the American condition for five decades, ever since a friend introduced him to the music of Bob Dylan. , Peeples turned to writing with a vengeance. He wrote poetry and songs that turned a critical eye on American culture and identity, the very definition of contemporary folk music.
Grant tours coast to coast and has performed multiple times at the Kerrville Folk Festival, The Woody Guthrie Folk Festival, the 30A Songwriters Festival, and The Florida Folk Festival.
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Hannah's Whirl

Do you love the feeling you get when a great story unfolds through songs? HANNAH’S WHIRL, the acclaimed Floridian duo of Paul Arnone and Tami Wingard, brings this experience to life. Since their start in 2003, they have been enchanting audiences with their unique blend of original songs and harmonies, from intimate concerts to the Florida Folk Festival. 

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Heart Strings

For over 30 years Heart Strings, Marg's harp-centric band, provided entertainment for festivals, weddings, pubs, and memorial services. You may even have a Heart Strings CD or listened to one of the many harp/guitar recordings of Marg Chauvin and Bill Messer. We share a wide range traditional and not so traditional folk songs and tunes including original material, Florida Folk, early county/blues, and Celtic. Instruments include the Celtic harp, ukulele, Old-Time banjo, guitar, and voice to relate the stories. Join us for a fun, informative, and
memorable show.  Webpage

Holt and Cabe

The combined talents of these four accomplished musicians merge together and become even Holt & Cabe is a brother duo from Southwest Florida that composes and performs original Americana music. Their unique, tongue-in-cheek story songs take audiences on an acoustic listening journey. Holt (on guitar) and Cabe (on mandolin) have been working together since 2016 and have played on stages across the continental US. 

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Honey Miller

Honey Miller writes and performs original songs about life, and life in Florida. Their music has been described s both "The sound of the space coast" and "when the city and country meets the beach" David Miller, Ron Pirtle - Bass, Tom Lim YouTube

In Good Company

The combined talents of these four accomplished musicians merge together and become even greater than the sum of their parts! In Good Company is particularly gifted with harmonies and the use of different instruments. They perform a very polished collection of original songs, well-known folk artist's songs, and select cover songs, including some that you can sing along to! In Good Company members are: Curtis Wayne Schaper on bass and guitar, Lisa Bohn on ukulele and percussion, Ingrid Schaper on guitar and flute, and Mike Worrall on bass, guitar, and mandolin. They all trade off lead vocals and harmony, and swap out instruments for the various songs, which makes for a very interesting and entertaining performance. You can tell that they love to do what they do! You will walk away humming these songs for days to follow.  Facebook

James Hawkins

HOWDY, My name is James Hawkins and I am a singer/songwriter from Venice Florida. For about 10 years I have knocked around the Florida Folk scene performing in many different venues from coffee houses to a couple of concert halls. So folks have described my music as a mix of Woody Guthrie and Harry Chapin but I leave that judgement up to you. Since I became a member of the Friends of Florida Folk I have had 8 songs recorded by 7 Folk Artists. Also, I have had the honor of having 3 of my song included on 3 different compilation CD’s.   Website

Jane Fallon

Jane Fallon has been called the “quintessential folk storyteller performer” whose smooth, rich voice and well-written songs get noticed. Her vocals have been called “angelic” and “mesmerizing”, and her original songs “combine humor, intelligence, and deep musicality with an artfulness that is unusual.” She has 8 musical CD’s and three books to her credit and has won many songwriting awards including the Woody Guthrie Songwriting Competition, The American Songwriter Magazine Lyric Contest, the Will McLean Competition, and the South Florida Folk Festival Songwriting Contest. Her songwriting has led her to the Clancy Brothers Festival in Ireland, the Port Gamble Festival in Washington, and places in-between. She has recently relocated from New Hampshire to Dunedin, Florida and is delighted to be here.

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Jeannie Fitchen

As a young teenager Jeanie found her niche in the simple beauty and artistic style of traditional music from around the world. Throughout the years, however, she began to write and record her own songs earning a 1999 Grammy nomination for her CD, Roads, in the category of Best New Folk Album.  For her long-standing contributions to the folk cultural resources of the state, Jeanie received a Florida Folk Heritage Award in 2001.  For the songs she has written and sung in praise and defense of Florida's natural and cultural heritage, Jeanie was honored with The Fellow Man and Mother Earth Award by The Stetson Kennedy Foundation in 2010.  And In recognition of her legacy of performances as a Florida singer-songwriter and for her contributions to the Florida Folk Festival, Jeanie was inducted into the 2016 Florida Folk Festival’s Legends and Legacy Hall of Fame.  Facebook Website

Jenny & the Stray Dogs

Jenny and the Stray Dogs, based in the Tampa Bay area, are seasoned musicians who let their hair down and play rip-roarin’, foot-stompin’ old-time barn and contra dance music throughout central Florida. You can’t help but dance when hearing their driving rhythm and infectious enthusiasm. When not playing dances the band performs Old Time music, stories, and songs for audiences during the Florida festival season and also plays private events such as cane boils, parties, and country weddings.

Jim Bickerstaff and Friends

As house engineer for legendary producer, Johnny Sandlin, Jim has worked at the top of the music business as an audio engineer for groups such as Widespread Panic, Col. Bruce Hampton & the Aquarium Rescue Unit & The Dixie Dregs on releases by Capricorn Records and Warner Brothers Music. As an independent producer and engineer, Jim worked has with Jupiter Coyote, Chief Jim Billie, Sarah McCulloch, Jeanie Fitchen, Mindy Simmons, Raiford Starke, Joey Errigo, Clyde Walker, Sam Pacetti, Vassar Clements. John McEuen, Bela Fleck, Upsala, and hundreds of other Indie artists. As a writer and performer, Jim has released three albums of his music, including his most recent release, “Florida” which includes tributes to Chief Jim Billie and Margaret Longhill.   Website

John Bois & his emotional support band

John came to the US with a band called The Dingoes. They were about to go on tour with Lynyard Skynyard when that band’s plane crashed. The Dingoes broke up soon after this and were unheard of until John and the band were inducted into the Australian Music Hall of Fame. John has written and produced four of his own albums. His latest is 2024’s The Coalminer’s Diamonds. He has also produced several albums for other artists including Cheryl Wheeler’s Half a Book, and Rita Youngman’s Marshtackie. He is currently producing an album for (and with) Hannah’s Whirl. John plays and sings his songs and is backed by his Emotional Support Band. Its most regular member is Jim Rigel on stand-up bass. John plays at Florida folk festivals including Barberville and Will McLean. He is also guitarist for the Highland Celts a band specializing in Irish tunes. They play in the Lake Placid area.

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Just Folks

They named themselves Just Folks because that is what they are and that is, mostly, what they play. Just Folks started out as a husband and wife duo - Dave Berry on dulcimer and Diane on guitar, banjo or mandolin. The duo quickly evolved into a band adding members who played fiddle, mando, bass and various other instruments. James Huston on fiddle, Michael Rutledge on mandolin and Danna Moore on guitar and ukelele added a great deal of diversity and energy as well as lots of fun. Though devastated this year by the loss of Dave Berry, Just Folks continues, and have added Terri Melton on dulcimer and Shannon Morris on bass. Playing original songs as well as carefully chosen covers, they keep the tradition of Folk and Americana, with some Old Time fiddle tunes thrown into the mix..

Justin Mason and Blue Night 

Justin Mason & Blue Night is quickly becoming a force in Bluegrass. Fronted by one of the regions premier writer & performers, the band always puts on a show. Driving Bluegrass, songs from the heart, and a true passion for performing, that’s Justin Mason & Blue Night.
Justin is a third generation Bluegrass performer whose love for songwriting is only surpassed by his love of performing. Justin is one of Florida Bluegrass’ Media personalities with his Florida Bluegrass Network media company which shares stories, videos and other media of all things Florida Bluegrass.
The Blue Nightband members are each veterans of the Bluegrass circuit who have played in multiple bands and share Justin’s passion for performing but most of the band is still under 30. Each member plays multiple instruments and sings all the traditional harmony parts while adding to the stage show.

Keith Hope

Keith Hope is a 6th generation Floridian. He started performing in public at age 5 and never stopped. He played in several folk groups, and his high school and college rock bands. He has performed with his group and solo many years at the Florida Folk Festival, the Will McLean Festival, the South Florida Folk Festival and music venues in Florida. Keith moved to Nashville, studied songwriting full-time for four years, and performed in music venues there including the Blue Bird Café. Today he performs original Florida songs, songs by Florida Legends Songwriters, and songs you know by heart.

Lauren Heintz

Lauren Heintz has weathered more upheavals than she cares to tally. But from uncertainty comes determination, and in her case, it has ignited a passion for the music she loves. Today, Lauren’s fingers deftly weave fretboard melodies that transcend genres, entrancing audiences with each nuanced note and heartfelt vocal expression. Despite her humble collection of first-place songwriting awards (Will McLean, South Florida Folk, and Walnut Valley Festivals), she remains grounded, often navigating between the reassuring shadows of obscurity and the fulfilling spotlight of the stage. Ever grateful, her folk-inspired sound continues to pay homage to the landscapes she's traversed and the people who've left an indelible mark on her soul.

  Website  YouTube 

Lee Hunter & Joey Kerr

Lee Hunter is a singer, songwriter, rhythm guitarist, percussionist and pianist with a passion for folklore.  What you here is exceptional guitar work accompanying clever original songs and traditional tunes pulled from the  roots of American music. Joey, a Florida native, brings impressive musicianship and an extensive knowledge of American music to the duo's sound. Joey has lived many of the things that he writes about. In 2015, Lee teamed up with Joey Kerr, an excellent guitarist and mandolin player and a fine songwriter in his own right. They are working together on many performances. 

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Lisa’s family came to Florida around 1850 and settled in the Tampa area. Lisa performs with Ron and Bari Litschauer (when available), Rochelle Morris, Dora Anne, and Vgo (when available), at festivals, gatherings, and song circles, around Florida, keeping her promise to Frank Thomas, to continue the rich tradition of storytelling in his and Ann’s songs.

Lucky Mud

Seven years in the early days of Nashville taught Mike & Maggie McKinney what they did not want. The heart of music should not be lost in the business of music. The music that Lucky Mud writes/sings/plays comes from the dirt of their native Florida. Mix that with a little saltwater, sweat and tears and you have Mud, Lucky Mud. Lucky Mud plays SwampyTonk and Folkabilly.  Facebook Website YouTube

Mac Martin

Mac Martin is a notable musician hailing from Arcadia, Florida, celebrated for his contributions to the Coastal Americana genre, also known as Trop Rock. A fourth-generation Floridian, Mac Martin has a deep connection to his roots, which is reflected in his music.
His 2022 release, "Margarita Skies," is a tropical-themed project dedicated to the Trop Rock genre. The title track from this album reached #1 on the Weekly Trop 40 chart for two weeks in 2023, showcasing its popularity within the Trop Rock community. Mac hac been inducted to the prestigeous Trop Rock Music Academy.
Mac Martin's discography includes several albums such as "Debut aLa Americana" (2013), "All the Good Things I've Got" (2005), and "Live at Crowley" (2007). ReverbNation

Mary Beth Campbell and Friends

Mary Beth Campbell and Friends have been performing at WillFest and other Florida Festivals for more than 20+years. They perform an eclectic and spirited mix of original songs and Mary Beth also writes many Florida songs. Also, from time to time, there are some changes and this year the group will include Mary Beth Campbell on guitar and vocals, Chris Campbell on stand-up bass and harmonica, Mike Gray on guitar and background vocals, Gabe Hardesty Creamer on recorder, Susan Townsend on vocals, and this year will welcome Greg Thomas on some of the many instruments he plays. They love performing and their passion and love of music shines through all that they do!

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Mean Mary

Mean Mary is an award-winning musician/writer and fan favorite (over 35 million views on her YouTube videos), Mean Mary, literally grew-up in music. She evolved from a child prodigy who played for tips on the streets of Nashville (“startling talent” said the Tennessean) to a seasoned performer and headliner of over 4000 festivals and concerts (“the voice of a ragged Angel combined with the banjo playing of the Devil” says No Depression) Website Facebook Youtube

Mel and Vinnie

Mel and Vinnie met the Florida folk community at the Will McLean festival in 2013. The next year they led a workshop for Pete Seeger who passed in January. Margaret Longhill attended and shared the history of Will and Pete. they came to be involved at Florida Folk Festival volunteering with the Park Service, volunteering with the festival and through performer application. Last year they performed with St. Pete Shanties and filled in for cancellations as Mel and Vinnie. They’ve performed at Barberville, Sunday at Stetsons, Mudville, in shows at the Lake Worth Playhouse and in the South Florida Folk Festival songwriter contest. They live in Palm Beach County now and look forward to continuing to collect and preserve Florida’s traditional knowledge. Mel and Vinnie have three CDs: Feels Like Home, Voodoo Blues and Broad Old River 2.

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Mike Quick

Mike is an America Folk Singer Songwriter form Deland FL. A fearless artist that is head-on with today’s headlines, with meaningful lyrics about life, art, religion and positive change for humanity. He is a powerful, soulful performer with a rich knowledge of blues and folk music that is always inventive and  and inspiring to see.

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North Florida Taildraggers

The North Florida Taildraggers started after a group of musicians attended the International Bluegrass Musicians Associations conference. They had so much fun jamming and seeing hundreds of world class musicians that they were inspired to start a regular Monday night jam session. That jam session soon turned into a bluegrass band. Members include Trey Brewer on Mandolin and Vocals, Jan Brewer on Bass, Maggie Widner on Fiddle and Vocals, Justin Lane on Guitar and Vocals, and Ben Lepera on Dobro and Vocals and our newest member is sixteen year old Paige Bechtol on Banjo.

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OtherEndoftheRoad

OtherEndoftheRoad is an acoustic folk and Americana band that performs original songs as well as their own arrangements of popular songs. Members include Nancy Wagner on mandolin, guitar, lead and harmony vocals; Robert Hand on guitar, harmonica, lead and harmony vocals; Andre Cox on fiddle and lead vocals; Montana Cox on percussion, lead and harmony vocals; and Neel Parekh on bass. The band formed in 2024 in Gainesville, Florida. The music of OtherEndoftheRoad is based on a common love for wooden instruments, harmony singing and the folk tradition. OtherEndoftheRoad performances are intended to inspire listeners to feel good and think well. 

Passerine

Passerine is Carmela Pedicini and David Brain, Sara Stovall and Doug Conroy.  They have been touring nationally since 2012 when they released their first CD.  They have been featured performers at music festivals all over Florida and their show schedule typically includes everything from pubs to listening rooms, coffee houses to street festivals, big auditorium shows to intimate house concerts. Combining their diverse musical backgrounds and interests in exploring American “roots” music, Passerine occupies a zone somewhere between modern folk, progressive bluegrass, and what is loosely called “Americana.”  

"Passerine" (pronounced "passer-een") is the common name for the order of birds capable of perching-- members of the order of Passeriformes

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Patchwork

Patchwork is a 5-piece bluegrass and folk band.  Members are Janet Rucker (banjo, guitar and vocals); Cathy Dewitt (guitar and vocals); Annie MacPherson (Bass and vocals); Jolene Jones (mandolin and vocals) and David Cook (Guitar, dobro, mandolin). The band features gorgeous harmonies, as well as foot stomping instrumentals. Get ready for a good time!

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Paul Smithson

 Paul was immersed in music whenever he would visit family in South Carolina. His uncles were guitar players and singers in the style of Jimmie Rodgers and Woody Guthrie, and Paul learned early on the importance of a good story in a song. His guitar playing was likewise influenced by the fingerpicking style of his uncles.
After reading Gilbert King's The Devil In the Grove, Paul recorded a collection of tunes inspired by
and reflecting the various character viewpoints from the book. This collection of songs inspired a continued interest in Florida history. He later released a cd titled Last Train, a collection of Florida-based songs. He is currently working on next cd titled Matecumbe Key.

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Peg and Em

This singer-songwriting duo from North Port, Florida have a way of telling stories through their music. As members of “The Peacock Players”, they have expanded their repertoire to include live theater.

Peggy is a prolific writer. She has written over two hundred songs, two books on genealogy and one book of her own lyrics and poetry. Emery has a unique style of harmonica playing that is both warm and sultry. He also plays drums, bass and ukulele to compliment Peggy's gentle guitar style and soothing voice.

Their songs can be humorous and quirky or serious and even creepy, but they are always thought provoking.

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Rachel Grubb

Rachel is a seventh generation Floridian raised in rural north central Florida. She grew up singing backseat harmony to songs from the Baptist Hymnal and The Mamas and the Papas. Fascinated by lyric and melody from an early age, it wasn’t until she had a career and family that she found the courage to give songwriting an earnest try. Rachel tours throughout the southeast as a member of the all-female Americana trio, The Krickets. Rachel released her debut album, “Twists + Tangles,” in August, 2016. Her second album, “Florida Home,” a collection of songs about rural Florida, is scheduled. Website Facebook YouTube

A + M "Real - Life Superheros"

A+M “Real-Life Superheroes” are a musical Duo consisting of Singer/Songwriter/Producer MYLS and Vocalist, Songwriter and Multi-Instrumentalist, AUD. Performing on piano and acoustic guitar, they deliver an original storytelling musical experience with intimate and charming harmonies, courageous lyrics and powerful energy that fills any room. These "Real-Life Superheroes" inspire audiences with their message of Hope, LOVE, and UNITY- affirming that together we have the power to transform Tomorrow into a Beautiful Place for everyone!  

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Reckless Saints

Roy Schneider and Kim Mayfield are the core duo and songwriters of Reckless Saints. Partners in music and love since 2003, they began recording and touring five years later. “Blue Twangled Folk 'n' Roll' is the answer Roy provided to the question "What kind of music do you play?" The Fort Myers based duo decided to use his answer as the album title for their 2023 release, while also adopting the title of their 2018 release 'Reckless Saints' as their new band moniker. Roy
& Kim have released 5 CDs of original music - performing their songs in 41 (so far!) states, Canada, and two tours in Europe.

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Richard D. Lewis

Richard follows a mantra of "Making Music to Change the World," but insists that those efforts must avoid an "agit-prop," or politically stilted style of writing and performing. He believes that the very best artistic creations are those that are truly "higher than life," and nurture the very best inclinations of the poetic and compassionate human spirit.Richard's ideal performing environment would be small intimate venues and house concerts where there are opportunities for up close and personal dialogue with the audience. Webpage

Rod MacDonald

Rod MacDonald was one of NYC’s Greenwich Village popular singers in the "Fast Folk" 1980s before moving to south Florida in 1995. Many artists have covered his songs; he's performed in major festivals and concert halls throughout North America, Europe and Australia. In south Florida he’s been named “Best Local Acoustic Artist” and one of "The Ten Greatest South Florida Folk Singers Of All Time" by New Times and “One of Ten Magnificent Musicians of Palm Beach County” by the Palm Beach Post for his inspiring songs and singing. Fort Lauderdale’s Labyrinth Café “his personal commitment to communicating events that have affected and shaped our world’s societies…with lyrics and music that are infectious and inspiring, often humorous, sometimes reckless, frequently evocative, usually thought provoking – and – always compelling. Rod’s songs will stay in your heart and mind long after the music has ended.”

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Ron and Bari

Ron and Bari's musical journey includes the very first Will McLean Festival, the earliest Gamble Roger’s Festivals, as well as over thirty years of appearances at The Florida Folk Festival. It was their profound honor to serve as primary members of the Frank and Ann Thomas “House and Festival Band” for over two decades. Each “Ron and Bari” festival set or concert experience involves laughter, stories, spontaneous introspective commentary, and toe tapping fun. Our goal and honor is to send you home feeling happier, smarter, and maybe even better looking than you were when you arrived.

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Rural Route 2

Three generations of Floridians make up Rural Route 2.
Joan Alderman is the group's matriarch, bringing the Florida of yesteryear to life through the tales of her youth, painting a tapestry with colorful characters, mysterious Skunk Men, wandering ghosts, and hog-hunting mules. At age 10, Joan learned to play harmonica, sitting across from her grandmother in a pea-pickin' chair by the fireplace. She is a Florida Old Time Harmonica Champion and plays a bit of guitar and banjo too. Joan's daughter-in-law, Amy Alderman, is the second generation in this song & story team. Inspired by Joan’s tales and a love for history, Amy’s songs paint musical portraits of the people – real and legendary, past and present – that populate the Florida Panhandle.
Amy’s daughter, Kathrine Alderman, rounds out the trio of musical story-weavers. With her rich, expressive voice and steady guitar, Kathrine shares her love for her home state's history, heritage, and music. Often funny – occasionally unexpected – always entertaining, these colorful ladies proudly show off their Florida Panhandle roots with their collection of tales and tunes.

Sarah McCulloch

Born in Miami, McCulloch was raised in a swampy remote enclave of northeastern Collier County, near the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation. Her family built their home with hand-milled cypress from her Father's sawmill. She was homeschooled for most of her formative years and drew songwriting inspiration from her colorful childhood, surrounded by the Seminole Tribe and Florida pioneers. She recently released her third full length album, “Driving Me Home.” Produced by Jim Bickerstaff, her new batch of finely crafted folk tunes features many of our cherished Florida Folk artists, including Jeanie Fitchen, Wayne Martin, Raiford Starke, Will Ellis and Stan Geberer. Sarah's music has recently been recognized by the State of Florida's Division of Arts and Culture for her significant contribution to country music.

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Sharon Osuna

Sharon Osuna grew up immersed in American folk music, learning guitar and traditional songs from her grandmother at an early age. Like many of her generation, the folk music "revival" and the 1960s was an inspiration and source of influence as Sharon began creating her own original songs. She began her Florida song writing adventure in the early 2000s and performed at several renowned venues such as the Will McLean Music Festival and the Florida  Folk Festival. Sharon also ventured into the Nashville singer-songwriter arena, appearing in several songwriters' showcases at the famous Bluebird Cafe. Having not quit her day job, she is now content to be a shade-tree (or poolside) picker and occasional open mic participant.

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St. Pete Shanties

St. Pete Shanties sing the songs that sailors, fishermen, and dockworkers sang, primarily during the Age of Sail when billowing sails carried people and cargo around the globe and whalers sailed the oceans in search of riches from the sea. With a maritime repertoire of mostly traditional songs, the Shanties are not adverse to a sprinkling of more contemporary pieces. The Shanties have a special interest in music native to their home state of Florida, which has a rich maritime history.

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Stan Geberer

Stan has taught Harmonica Workshop at the Will McLean Festival for more than 15 years.  He provides beginner, intermediate and advanced instruction.  Stan’s harmonica accompaniments with other Florida musicians are upbeat, and soulful, infusing spirit and vitality. Stan's harp playing is in demand. He is often found teaching harmonica workshops and has made recorded and stage appearances accompanying Don Grooms, the Roadside Revue, Clyde Walker, Chuck Hardwicke, DiNella & Geiger, Suzanne Marie Grooms,  Frank and Anne Thomas, Back Porch Revival and the Jackson Creek Band and many more. He is in a duet with JD Smith "Wild Cotton"

Tim Martin

Tim Martin ,”the saw man “ I’ve been playing this unique instrument since 2010 Believe it or not-the musical saw was a popular instrument in the earlier 1900s and almost disappeared after the vaudeville era . My goal is to share this lost musical art and promote others to learn how to play and make this instrument well-known again! There are thousands of people all around the world that play the “singing saw”, yet-it is almost unknown. Come to the saw workshop. We have extra saws.

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The Ashley Gang

The Ashley Gang consists of: Al Scortino (guitar and dobro player, vocals, and award-winning songwriter extraordinaire from Sebastian Florida) Paul Garfinkel (guitar and saxophone player, vocals, and 5-time Will McLean song contest top ten finisher including the winning son “The Creek” in 1999) Bob Bronar (lead guitar player - one of Florida’s finest! - mandolin player and vocals) Kay Garfinkel (percussionist, flute player and harmony vocalist) Chris Campbell (Bass) 

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The Dolce Trio

The Dolce Trio is an all- female, acoustic band from Tallahassee, FL that plays original compositions, as well as cover arrangements you don't often hear. With three songwriters, a trio of voices, guitars, upright bass, and mandolin; Gillian Canning , Elizabeth Fravel , and Kelly Goddard came together for front porch music and fellowship during the tumultuous covid era years. They quickly realized there was a certain kind of magic (and a whole lot of healing) that happened when they played music together. Now, they aim to share this joy of music, and the magic of sisterhood, with folks at every show.

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The Dunehoppers

The DuneHoppers have been a staple of North Florida Folk Festivals for the past 20 years. They play a tasteful blend of folkgrass, traditional as well as original music. Through the years there has been several different members. the band presently consists of Mike Elias - guitar, Bob Parsons - mandolin and fiddle, Kathy Zemameck - Banjo, Allen Hood - Fiddle, and Janine Rainville - bass, Contra Dance with Bill Paine – Mandolin.

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The Flathead String Band

The Flathead String Band is a high energy string band that formed on the streets of Apalachicola in 2016 and quickly made a reputation in Florida and beyond for their lively performances, raucous jams, and audience call and response songs. The band has represented Florida in music festivals, the Blue Plate Special Radio Show in Tennessee, contra dances, and venues across the southeast. Chris, Haden, and Bronwyn maintain their unyielding commitment to having a good ole’ time while pickin’, sawin’, grinnin’ and presenting traditional tunes and originals alike with fiddle, guitar, banjo, bass, mandolin, vocal harmony, and stomping boots.

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The Florida Boys

From Chokoloskee to Tallahassee, The Florida Boys have performed throughout the peninsula of Florida. The Florida Boys perform original Florida Folk songs (I Love Florida, Blue Moon Party and more), traditional Florida Folk songs such as Will McLean’s The Wild Hog and covers of American country classics such as The Cuckoo and Gone, Gone , Gone. The Florida Boys have been performing together for over 7 years. The Florida Boys have numerous videos showcasing their material on YouTube.  Facebook

The Hoochie Digs

The Hoochie Digs started out in Louisiana in 2014. Hoochie Digs genre is Bluesy folk, but the south seeps in to give their sound some country. Cher is French speaking and of Cajun heritage flavoring their songs with the language. The group name came from Cher’s French grandma, who would say “hoochie dig” in place of a name she could not recall. Joey says listen to their Blues Folk to hear true life stories that bring us together. Webpage

The Lilly Jane Band

The Lilly Jane band performs a rich collection of music comprised of old-time traditional songs, originals, and unique arrangements of contemporary Americana covers. Their music features beautifully blended vocals accompanied by acoustic instruments that include guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, ukulele, accordion, Irish penny whistle and bass. Lilly Jane explores songs forgotten and harmonies remembered with an original, earthy style that is both powerful and subtle. Lilly Jane is music, pure and simple. Website

The New 76ers

 The New 76ers are an acoustic folk trio from North Florida. Our sound comes from a collective respect for acoustic and electric music. As a family trio, we rely on instinct to meld vocals into harmonies and let them take the spotlight. We are deep rooted in Southern musical heritage and out original music aspires to move you physically and spiritually. Our mission is to give love through music.

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The Promise

The Promise: Birthed in the winter of 2023, the Promise is Brad Schwartzseid on bass and vocals, and Ken Holt on guitar, mandolin and vocals. Combining familiar influences into a unique blend of original folk and Americana music, The Promise will stir familiar vibes while creating a new music alternative. Lyrically driven, The Promise wishes to be one of your new music choices.

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VGO

VGO is an award winning Florida Old Time Music Championship multi-instrumentalist and singer. He can play about 130 instruments and has perfect pitch. His interest in the stories and the history of music led him down the path of learning the classic blues and the music of the Civil War era. Vgo’s knowledge of old time traditional music is deep and authentic. His storytelling style is reminiscent of the vaudeville era. It is genuine and entertaining.

Wild Shiners

Wild Shiners is a quintet based in North and Central Florida. With banjo, fiddle, flatpick guitar, upright bass, and drums, Wild Shiners’ original sound has been fertilized by southern roots music like country blues, jazz, southern soul, bluegrass, and outlaw country. Wild Shiners’ self-titled EP has been well received and has garnered radio play on GrowRadio out of Gainesville and WFCF Flagler College Radio in St. Augustine. Always serving the song and serving the listeners, Wild Shiners has maintained a steady schedule of playing bars, listening rooms, and festivals throughout the state. Website Facebook YouTube