Lydia Cash // Mike Giannini & the Rhythm Rangers
Lydia Cash grew up in Birmingham, Alabama. She moved to Chicago on a whim in 2013, and her love for the city has since become a wellspring of inspiration for her music.Listening to Lydia Cash’s newest EP, “Blush,” feels almost like reading a secret– the five songs are beacons of authenticity where she reveals the innermost workings of her heart’s loves and losses. Each song is a unique confessional, a portrait of a moment in time, poured out of her like the best bottle of wine on a back porch. Heartache, new romance, and introspection are all common themes that are held together with threads of vulnerable moments– a shared cigarette, a head on a shoulder. Her delicate melodies, enrapturing voice, and a pedal steel twang showcase this native Alabamian/Chicago transplant’s dichotomy of grit and sweetness.
Instagram: @Lydia_cash
www.lydiacashmusic.com
Mike Giannini & the Rhythm Rangers
Original Rockabilly and Honky Tonk from Chicago.
@mikegianninimusic
mikegianninimusic.com
Meg & The Wheelers // Wire & Nail (mke)
Wire & Nail #Milwaukeetonk. Nothing better than a Saturday Night in aNorthwoods Tavern. Longnecks & Shooters. Darts & Pool.Romance & Good times. Wire & Nail. This tight combo from Milwaukee loves nothing better than to supply the soundtrack.Equal parts Honky Tonk and Rock n Roll, Wire & Nail have thechops to keep the evening rolling.Loaded like a shotgun, the band comes stacked with tightharmonies, great tone, an on point rhythm section and enoughswagger to back it up.
Meg & The Wheelers are a country western band from Chicago, Illinois, formed by songwriter Meg Sampson in 2018. Their distinct sound draws on the rich history of country music, with influences ranging from Margo Price to Loretta Lynn. Meg & The Wheelers craft a unique & exciting spin on the music that made them, combining modern lyrics with traditional melodies, weaving tales of love & loss that feel both fresh & timeless.
Rosedale Ramblin' Band
The Rosedale Ramblin’ Band delivers high-energy old-school country, contemporary and alt-country, classic rock, and Americana.
IG and Facebook: therosedaleramblinband
Website: www.rosedaleramblinband.com
Two Step Tuesdays : 2nd Tuesday with Brandon Good
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Line Dancers of Chicago
Claire Chm is a line dance instructor and a member of the Line Dancers of Chicago community. She and her friends are excited to bring line dancing back to Broken Hearts! Whether you have two left feet or you’re a line dancing pro, we’ve got lessons and song selections that will keep you on the dance floor!
Allegra Malone
Her straight forward song writing, powerhouse vocals and A List band play with a scorching momentum that has garnered Allegra a solid place in the Roots, R&B and Country Blues landscape. She is known as the “Hoyle sister” of the beloved Chicago honky tonk heroes The Hoyle Brothers, and as one of the most dynamic and soulful voices of Chicago. This special Swamp Rock and Honky Tonk show features an exceptionally special version of her band, The Revival, featuring Brian Wilkie, John Pirruccello, Andon Davis and John Carpenter.
Holy Joke
Holy Joke is an indie Americana rock band from Chicago, IL, drawing inspiration from the alt-country greats across the decades while incorporating contemporary indie-rock sensibilities. After recording Holy Joke's first EP No Way Home as a solo project, frontman and songwriter Greg Taylor assembled the musicians who make Holy Joke a force to be reckoned with: Max Berg (guitar and pedal steel), Jonah Penningroth (drums), and Mike Vendiola (bass). The band honed their live sound in 2023 playing at venues across the city. Holy Joke released their second EP (self titled) this July, channeling the raw energy of their live show into a tight 6-song release. @holyjokeband on all platforms
Abortion Y'Allidarity: Line Dancing Fundraiser for Midwest Access Control
Chicago For Abortion Rights is a network of activists and community members fighting for abortion rights and reproductive justice for all.
IG - @ChiForAbortion https://bit.ly/yall4mac is the link to the eventbrite rsvp page bit.ly/m/CFAR is the link to our linktree type page
Two Step Tuesdays : 3rd Tuesday with Wild Earp
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Lucas Wayne & the Cottonmouths // The Revenirs
Lucas Wayne is a storyteller at heart, singing about the quirks of everyday characters and the experiences of growing up in rural Eastern Kentucky and Southern Illinois - where he is based today. Classically trained, his vocal range and natural vibrato leaves crowds stunned. Wayne’s songs move between simply sweet, utterly silly and seriously sad. They all resonate with a humble honestly that is inviting and refreshing.For a few years Lucas Wayne has been captivating audiences as a solo artist. Now he is touring with his band The Cottonmouths - whose members have toured extensively with Vince Herman Band, Rev Peyton’s Big Damn Band, The Whistle Pigs and more. Together they present an emotionally and sonically dynamic show that instantly connects with people. It features a truly impressive vocal performance, red-hot lead guitar/pedal-steel and a perfectly seasoned rhythm section.
https://www.facebook.com/lucaswayne0/
IG: @lucaswaynemusic
Tik Tok: @lucaswaynemusic
The Revenirs are a Chicago Alt-Country band that embrace a sonic sensibility reminiscent of Lucero, 16 Horsepower, Centro-matic and the Drive By Truckers. The Revenirs sound revolves around singer/songwriter Daniel Rey's tales of "sorrow and solitude" and features Dennis Kardys on lead guitar and Dean Radzik on drums–both alums of Chicagoland alt-country darlings, "The Dirty Green"– alongside former "The Soup" (Denton TX) bassist, "Dodgy Mary" (Chicago) vocalist and Lone Star Native "Catfish" Willy Hudson on bass.“Daniel Rey” began as the solo Alt-country, side-project of singer/songwriter Dejan Kralj (day-on kraal), who has spent the last three and a half decades as the bass guitarist and one of the primary songwriters for Milwaukee's reclusive alternative-rock band, The Gufs. The former Atlantic Recording/EMI Publishing Artist and 2012 Wisconsin Area Music Industry Hall of Fame Inductee is a life-time resident of the Midwest, Rey (the Spanish translation of Kralj) and divides his time between his current home in the Veltway community of Berwyn on Chicago's near-westside and a small farm in Southeastern Indiana, which has been the source of his alt-folk/alt-country musings over the last twenty-five years. Daniel Rey has been performing throughout the Midwest since 2018 and released his debut LP “Living Low” on Milwaukee’s Red Submarine Records in 2020. Daniel Rey & the Revenirs are currently working on Rey’s follow-up and the band’s debut LP “Too Busy Dying” for release later this year.
Diamondback
Diamondback has been a popular staple of the Chicago Music scene for decades. We bring our high energy sound to clubs, festivals and private events throughout the Midwest. Our extensive song list is truly a history of Country, and for that matter, American pop music, and promises something for everyone.
Female fronted, tight vocal harmonies and multi-instrumentalists (lead guitar, fiddle, mandolin) bring texture and excitement to our sound. We perform regularly as a 5-piece band, with the capability of adding additional instruments (steel guitar, mandolin, banjo, keyboard) and vocalists. Our lineup features Chicagoland’s most talented and experienced musicians, some from the Old Town School of Folk Music, and many others.
The band has established itself as a standout act in Chicagoland, performing at popular venues such as Fitzgerald’s, Carol’s Pub, Firewater Saloon; family-friendly Summer Festivals at Kendall County Fair, Plano’s Midweek Music, Skokie’s Wednesdays on the Green, Northman Riverwalk, Oak Park Thursday Night Out; Corporate Events and many Private parties.
Aaron Leese The panhandlers
Danceable, upbeat New Orleans roots music and some modern country with a twist. Aaron Leese & the Panhandlers play music for dancing drunks, lost souls, and revolution schemers. Come joins us for an night of deep Americana and southern soul. https://www.facebook.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@AaronLeese-Music
Two Step Tuesdays : 4th Tuesday with Lawrence Peters
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Pistol Pete
From the first note to the last, Pistol Pete will take you on a high energy musical journey. You will want to get out on the dance floor or play "air guitar" right along with him. The consummate professional, Pete tunes up his guitar and then tunes into his audience. Whether he is playing for a small crowd or a large festival, he delivers exactly what the audience wants to hear. He has a large repetoire of cover tunes as well as original material. He is known for his tributes to Jimi Hendrix and considered to be one of the best in the country. Pistol Pete is equally talented in all genres of music; rock, funk, jazz and blues.
Pete has entered and won or placed in the finals in several competitions including; Asti-Spumanti talent search (he appeared on Showtime at The Appollo), The Hendrix Foundation Electric Guitar Competition, Chicago Blues Challenge, Chicago Guitar Slinger, and Guitar Center's King of the Blues.
Throughout his career, Pete has opened for and played with many musical legends, including; Jimi Hendrix's Original Band of Gypsy's members Buddy Miles and Billy Cox, KoKo Taylor, Buddy Guy, Bo Diddley, Billy Branch, Cheap Trick, Foreigner, Joe Bonamassa, Head East, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, Fog Hat, Blues Travelers, George Thorogood, and Mister Mister.
Pistol Pete has also toured in Japan, Poland and Italy. He has released two CD's with P-Vine Records in Japan ("21st Century Bluesman" and "Evolution Blues"). His independent CD releases include; "Pistol Pete", "Loaded", "BlueStew", "Man in the Moon", and "Pistol Pete Live at B.L.U.E.S.". Pete has also been featured on the compilation CD "Blues Jam Live with Buddy Guy, Junior Wells, and Roy Hightower"
The Rangers // Wicked Drawl
The Rangers
Homegrown Chicagoland Country and Wild Western. The Rangers, full steam ahead on their “Cowboy in a Bottle Tour” bring an electric and dynamic show to the stage, and make every show a night to remember!The Rangers Band (Facebook) @therangersband (instagram) @therangersband (TikTok)
Wicked Drawl
A unique experience that criss-crosses through textures of country, folk & classical while hinting at the spirit of musical theater/cabaret. The group is led by composer/arranger, Keith Kusterer and is amplified by the genre-bending vocal stylings of Christina Pecce, sonorous upright bass slaps of Jeffrey Parker and Chicago’s own virtuoso gem of a pianist/composer, Casey Cross.
@wickeddrawl www.wickeddrawl.com
The Swains
The Swains, fronted by father and daughter duo Jack and Rachel, boast striking family harmonies paired with rich songwriting and classic country instrumentation. Their songwriting influences span country, southern rock, roadhouse, cosmic country, Americana, and red dirt, and reflect the Texas roots of Jack and Rachel. Their music speaks to the full range of human experience, punctuated with their signature blend of blood harmonies and heartache.
Instagram, please tag: @the.swains.band and @roxyswain
Website: https://theswainsband.com/home
Two Step Tuesdays : 1st Tuesday with The Hoyle Brothers
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
The Metalliques
The Metalliques are a psychedelic lounge band from Dimension Zero who materialize throughout Chicagoland to thrill audiences with their sultry and cinematic performances
https://www.instagram.com/themetalliques/ https://themetalliques.bandcamp.com
Iris Marlowe
Iris Marlowe is an alternative-country songwriter that uses her love of classic country music to create cinematic songs that paint a southern gothic landscape. Her latest album ‘Where the Devil Bid the Owl Goodbye’ features songs driven by adrenaline and the yearning for the Wild West. Iris creates country music for the eccentrics and folks that are looking for something a little different in the country music landscape.
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/1jWFAiBC95MHgZwMe0T475?si=n2PhE_J7QEGp14lP59mH_A&dl_branch=1
Social Media Links:
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/irismarlowemusic/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/iris.marlowe/?hl=en
YouTube:https://youtube.com/@irismarlowe?si=76GCSRFQb4UXdOhb
Joe Wortell
Country music has always been about the voice and the story. Well, Joe Wortell sure has the voice and he sure as hell has some stories. Hailing from the City of Chicago where he works at his family's metal fabrication factory Joe cut his teeth in the bars and Honky Tonks playing the hell out of his songs about leather tanned mavericks, hard luck hussies, runaway cats, two stroke boat engines and accidental overdoses, all while mythologizing the easy life off some remote beach in Florida. The songs are earnest, the lyrics are at times hilarious, his band is smoking and his voice is unforgettable. Insta: joewortell
The Waymores
The Waymores are a critically acclaimed Honky Tonk group hailing from Atlanta, GA USA. The husband and wife front have been touringthroughout the US and in UK and EU since 2018. Their third studio album, produced by the legendary Shel Talmy, who worked with the Kinks, The Who and David Bowie amongst other large names was released in August of 2023. Kira Annalise and Willie Heath Neal (formerly of Willie Heath Neal and The Damned Ol Opry) have played with Dale Watson, Wayne Hancock, Kelley Willis, Summer Dean and Scott H Biram to name a few. Their last album saw songs charting on the Alt-Country Specialty Chart in thetop 20 for three weeks in a row and in the top 10 for one week along-side names like Tyler Childers, Colter Wall and Lucinda Williams. They just wrapped recording for their 4th album in. Nashville with up-and-coming producer Mose Wilson (Hannah Juanita, Eliza Thorn, Sweet Megg) and plan to release in January of 2026.
instagram: @TheWaymores ; https://www.facebook.com/thewaymores
Two Step Tuesdays : 2nd Tuesday with Brandon Good
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Line Dancers
Claire Chm is a line dance instructor and a member of the Line Dancers of Chicago community. She and her friends are excited to bring line dancing back to Broken Hearts! Whether you have two left feet or you’re a line dancing pro, we’ve got lessons and song selections that will keep you on the dance floor!
@claire.chm_dance (IG),
@claire.chm (IG),
@linedancersofchicago (IG & TikTok)
Toadvine
Toadvine
Scrappy garage country - it's like if Gram Parsons ever did get around to making that record with the Rolling Stones
Instagram: @toadvine._
Meg & The Wheelers
Meg & the Wheelers
Meg & The Wheelers are a country western band from Chicago, Illinois, formed by songwriter Meg Sampson in 2018. Their distinct sound draws on the rich history of country music, with influences ranging from Margo Price to Loretta Lynn. Meg & The Wheelers craft a unique & exciting spin on the music that made them, combining modern lyrics with traditional melodies, weaving tales of love & loss that feel both fresh & timeless.
https://www.instagram.com/megandthewheelers/
Two Step Tuesdays : 3rd Tuesday with Wild Earp
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
The Hoyle Brothers
The Hoyle Brothers rank as Chicago's "best country band" for good reason. The quintet's been a staple of the city's country music scene for more than two decades, drawing dancers and do-gooders to weekly Friday happy hour shows and beyond. Stop by, have a listen and get set for good times.
Sara Jean Stevens
Sara Jean Stevens
Sara Jean Stevens writes songs for the loners, the hopeless romantics, and the dreamers. Her sophomore EP Lovesick weaves Americana, folk, and roadhouse grit into layered stories of love, longing, and memory. Recorded live in just two days at Dial Back Sound in Mississippi with Matt Patton (Drive-By Truckers), the EP includes collaborators like Taylor Hollingsworth and Kell Kellum, and draws from decades of lived experience.With praise from Americana Highways and show invitations from John Hiatt, The Wood Brothers, and Rhett Miller, Stevens continues carving out her own lane—one filled with pedal steel and poetry laced lyrics.
www.sarajeanstevens.com www.instagram.com/sarajeanstevenswww.facebook.com/sarajeanstevens
Aaron Leese The panhandlers
Danceable, upbeat New Orleans roots music and some modern country with a twist. Aaron Leese & the Panhandlers play music for dancing drunks, lost souls, and revolution schemers. Come joins us for an night of deep Americana and southern soul. https://www.facebook.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@AaronLeese-Music
Two Step Tuesdays : 4th Tuesday with Lawrence Peters
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Reilly Downes and the Acid Cowboys
Reilly Downes, known as the Sad Cowgirl of Chicago, is an Americana artist whose music blends heartfelt storytelling with the rich traditions of her Texas Hill Country roots. She began as a session musician in Nashville before stepping into the spotlight with her 2022 debut album, Spent, which topped Americana charts and earned acclaim from The Boot. Her haunting cover of “Wicked Game” secured radio play and a spot on Spotify’s “Vibes” playlist.After a quieter 2023, Reilly returned in 2024, sharing stages with Jaime Wyatt, Brennen Leigh, Kaitlin Butts, and Sarah Shook & The Disarmers. Described as “small but mighty,” her powerful voice and presence have earned her festival appearances and recognition in Rolling Stone.
Zack Fedor & the Long Goodbyes
Zack Fedor is Illinois' country musician. Since 2011 Zack Fedor has been a regular feature of bars, tavern's, fairs, and festivals all across the Midwest. Playing songs and Zack Fedor is Illinois' barstool musician.
FB: Zack Fedor and The Long Goodbyes
Insta/threads: @zack.fedor + @andthelonggoodbyes
X: @whoszackfedor
Tiktok: Zack.Fedor
The Woolly Rhinos
The Woolly Rhinos band hails from Chicago and is made up of Jack Swain on guitar and vocals, Tim Gronkowski on guitar, Melissa Kempfer on bass, and Chuck Harling on drums.The songs draw from Rock, Surf, Blues and Second Line.
Two Step Tuesdays : 1st Tuesday with The Hoyle Brothers
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Uncle Sexy and the Nephews
“TJ Kennedy, who makes music as Uncle Sexy, has been playing around Chicago for close to a decade. While he’s long past due for a big break, obscurity suits him as well as his big beard and shapeless hat. Backed by a revolving cast of musicians he calls the Nephews, Kennedy belts out weathered, sloppy outlaw country, with an emphasis on odes to working and failing while ingesting various mind-altering substances.”- Noah Berlatsky, Chicago Reader
Reverie Stone
Reverie Stone is a Chicago-based Americana and country cover band, led by husband and wife duo (Mitch & Lee), known for their rich vocal harmonies. Since forming in 2022, they've played to growing crowds across Chicagoland, sharing songs that bring back great memories and inspiring folks to sing along. Reverie Stone music blends country, roots, folk, and a dash of rock and alternative, brought to life with fiddle, mandolin, and pedal steel. They bring heart, harmony, and a warm, authentic sound to every stage.
Www.reveriestone.com
Instagram: @reveriestonechicago
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reveriestonehttps://youtube.com/@reveriestone
The White Saddle Band
Prime Country, Classic Country, Country Rock, and Americana are what you'll hear from TWSB. Tight harmony and top shelf musicianship playing A songbook full of Merle, Hank, Waylon, Willie, George (Strait and Jones), Poco, Eagles, Pure Prairie League, Marshall Tucker, and many others.
flintcreekmusic.com
Joe Wortell
Country music has always been about the voice and the story. Well, Joe Wortell sure has the voice and he sure as hell has some stories. Hailing from the City of Chicago where he works at his family's metal fabrication factory Joe cut his teeth in the bars and Honky Tonks playing the hell out of his songs about leather tanned mavericks, hard luck hussies, runaway cats, two stroke boat engines and accidental overdoses, all while mythologizing the easy life off some remote beach in Florida. The songs are earnest, the lyrics are at times hilarious, his band is smoking and his voice is unforgettable.
Two Step Tuesdays : 5th Tuesday with Pat Reedy
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
EGO
In a world without time, Ego, (formally Massive Ego) would have been a huge influence on The Beatles. Will they play country music? The answer is unlikely.
Diamondback
Diamondback has been a popular staple of the Chicago Music scene for decades. We bring our high energy sound to clubs, festivals and private events throughout the Midwest. Our extensive song list is truly a history of Country, and for that matter, American pop music, and promises something for everyone. Female fronted, tight vocal harmonies and multi-instrumentalists (lead guitar, fiddle, mandolin) bring texture and excitement to our sound. We perform regularly as a 5-piece band, with the capability of adding additional instruments (steel guitar, mandolin, banjo, keyboard) and vocalists. Our lineup features Chicagoland’s most talented and experienced musicians, some from the Old Town School of Folk Music, and many others. The band has established itself as a standout act in Chicagoland, performing at popular venues such as Fitzgerald’s, Carol’s Pub, Firewater Saloon; family-friendly Summer Festivals at Kendall County Fair, Plano’s Midweek Music, Skokie’s Wednesdays on the Green, Northman Riverwalk, Oak Park Thursday Night Out; Corporate Events and many Private parties.
James Gedda & ther Big Breakfast // Pepp Brothers Family Band
James Gedda is an up-and-coming Country and Americana singer-songwriter with a booming voice and a plainspoken honesty in his lyrics. The Crown Point, IN native has drawn comparisons to the likes of Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard with his earthy baritone, and he regularly covers such classics, but what drives him is writing songs and telling stories with modern sensibilities. He's performed in such historic venues as The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, and regularly sings all over Northwest Indiana and the Chicago area on top of having toured through Appalachia & the Southwest. He's released three locally-recorded solo acoustic EP's: Thick As Thieves, Bad Things Happen: Dynaline Sessions Vol. 1, and Hollering in a Bar, along with a pair of singles produced by Midamerican Records in Nashville, TN and is hard at work on getting his debut full-band, full-length album released. James Gedda is not an artist to miss if you're a fan of infectious melodies and affecting stories.
facebook.com/jamesgeddamusician, instagram.com/jamesgedda, youtube.com/jamesgedda, tiktok.com/@jamesgedda, bsky.app/profile/jamesgedda.bsky.social, jamesgeddamusic.com
Pepp Brothers Family Band
JoJo and Caleb Pepp are two brothers who are prolific songwriters in the country and folk tradition. Their band, The Pepp Brothers Family Band is a one of a kind, dance your blues away good time! Bringing their own distinct edginess and vulnerability and style to craft classic sounds with very personal and raw attitude. Jojo Pepp has made waves with his 2 debut Ep's, with heartbreaking country tunes and toe tapping beats. Followed by an intimate release in collaboration with Peyton Stewart, Peyton & Jojo's "Low Ways" EP, and a full length on the way, recorded with Randy Michael of The Booze. Caleb Pepp's 2025 EP, "Until They Turn the Bar Lights On" is a record full of earworm melodies and beautiful steel guitar. With a full length record also coming out springtime 2026, Caleb and JoJo Pepp will be bringing their music and old time family vibes far and wide to the growing audience of people who love authentic modern country and folk music.
https://www.instagram.com/calebpepp/
Two Step Tuesdays : 4th Tuesday with Lawrence Peters
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
John Ballantyne's Crazy Heart
John Ballantyne
More often than not, the road to country music stardom originates in Texas, Tennessee, or another time-honored Southern destination. John Ballantyne’s story arc reads way differently. Fast becoming recognized as one of Chicago’s premier country singers and songwriters, Ballantyne was born and raised in Scotland, though you’d never know it from his earthy vocal delivery and immaculate lead guitar. Both resonate with the twang and raunch of classic honky-tonk country.In his 20s, John grew enamored of singer-songwriters Kris Kristofferson, Guy Clark, and Jerry Jeff Walker., but Prine remains his favorite. “He’s a master songwriter. That’s what he’s famous for. But then the kicker is, you think, ‘What a great song! I want to sing this, but I bet it is really hard to learn,’” he says. “You print out the lyrics, look at it, and you go, ‘Is that it? There are two verses and a chorus. How can that be? There’s something wrong with the computer!’ This guy has painted a whole picture, a whole movie, and contained it in two verses and a chorus. And that’s the magic of John Prine. Other people do it, but he does it like no other.” Ballantyne’s splendidly concise lead guitar attack recalls that of James Burton, whose impeccable licks graced the hits of Ricky Nelson, Elvis Presley, Emmylou Harris, and many more. “Burton was a huge influence,” he says. “I would sit with the LP record and play it over and over and over again, trying to figure out what the hell he was doing. One of my heroes, for sure.” With these influences, it comes as no surprise to us that John's original songs and guitar playing will grab your attention and leave you wanting more.Bill Dahl
https://www.facebook.com/John.A.Ballantynehttps://www.facebook.com/JBCrazyHeart/
Toadvine // Dan Patrevito & Band
Toadvine
Scrappy garage country - it's like if Gram Parsons ever did get around to making that record with the Rolling Stones
Instagram: @toadvine._
Dan Patrevito originally from Chicago, has called Austin, Texas home for just over a decade. He returns to Broken Hearts with a stellar lineup of local Chicago musicians to bring his unique blend of Classical Country Ballads, Mississippi River Blues, TexMex Rock n roll and Wooden Swamp Boogie.
www.danpatrevito.bandcamp.com
@deadanimal
Meg & The Wheelers // Hunter Peebles & the Moonlighters (stl)
Meg & The Wheelers are a country western band from Chicago, Illinois, formed by songwriter Meg Sampson in 2018. Their distinct sound draws on the rich history of country music, with influences ranging from Margo Price to Loretta Lynn. Meg & The Wheelers craft a unique & exciting spin on the music that made them, combining modern lyrics with traditional melodies, weaving tales of love & loss that feel both fresh & timeless.
https://www.instagram.com/megandthewheelers/
https://www.facebook.com/megandthewheelers
https://linktr.ee/megandthewheelers
Hunter Peebles & the Moonlighters
Blending the raw storytelling tradition of John Prine with the timeless sounds of George Jones, Hunter Peebles & The Moonlighters bring a fresh yet classic energy to the Country/Americana scene. Fronted by Hunter Peebles, whose powerful vocals and poignant lyrics explore the highs and lows of the human experience, the band features a signature mix of crying steel guitar, rich instrumentation, and heartfelt melodies.
Based in St. Louis, MO, Hunter Peebles & The Moonlighters have quickly made their mark, sharing the stage with notable acts such as Ben Haggard, Sunny Sweeney, Vincent Neil Emerson, and Willie Watson. Their debut EP, Volume One, released in November 2023, showcases Hunter’s ability to weave personal narratives with universal themes, offering a collection of songs that resonate with fans of classic country and modern Americana alike. With a sound that honors the past while embracing the future, Hunter Peebles & The Moonlighters are poised to make their mark on the country music landscape. https://sites.google.com/view/hunter-peebles/home
Two Step Tuesdays : 3rd Tuesday with Wild Earp
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Oddball Market
Oddball is a curated, seasonal market that brings together an eclectic mix of chicago artists, vendors, and freaks. Every market raises $$ for a rotating local non-profit organization.
The White Saddle Band
Prime Country, Classic Country, Country Rock, and Americana are what you'll hear from TWSB. Tight harmony and top shelf musicianship playing A songbook full of Merle, Hank, Waylon, Willie, George (Strait and Jones), Poco, Eagles, Pure Prairie League, Marshall Tucker, and many others.
Simple Remedy
The Simple Remedy is a melting pot of American Music. Their songs have a classic American flare and tell the listener a story. The influences are endless. Classic Soul, Chicago Blues and The Nashville Sound tier in with deep Country and Americana roots. Their shows cover all of your favorite songs in the Country and Americana space and so much more! Find their new single "Under The Weight" on Apple and Spotify and anywhere you stream your music!
Facebook @Thesimpleremedy. Instagram @thesimpleremedy
The Country Doctors
The Country Doctors founded their practice in 2001. We’re a vintage honky-tonk band, meaning that our roots are in the heartfelt repertoire of country musicians who played and sang with a purity of emotion often lacking in the genre today. At the same time, we embrace contemporary artists who share a similar approach to country music. We have great vocalists in the band and do lots of arranged harmonies. We perform classic country tunes as well as original songs written in the style of the folks who influenced our music, such as Hank Sr., Johnny, Buck, Merle, George and Tammy, Loretta and so many others. Our musicians are all top notch veterans with a great rhythm section and soloists. Most of all we like to have fun with our music and their audience. There’s not a wall between the stage and our audience.
We’ve been called “the most fun country band in Chicago” and, if you doubt that, check us out and let us prove it to you.
Two Step Tuesdays : 2nd Tuesday with Brandon Good
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Local Memory // Gran Gran
Local Memory
Local Memory is a six-piece indie / alt-country band based in Chicago, Illinois. Led by songwriter Amy Myers and her pal and collaborator Matt Ciani (both with honky-tonk roots in Meg and the Wheelers). Guitarist Lucas Chamberlain, drummer Nico Ciani, pianist Nicole Murray, and vocalist Lydia Cash round out the project Their EP Greatest Hits dropped on May 30, 2025.
Instagram: @localmemory / localmemory.net
Gran Gran
Rust belt ballads/modern indie folk band from Dayton, OH.
https://bbgrangran.bandcamp.com/
Zack Fedor // BorderTown & Co.
Zack Fedor
Zack Fedor is Illinois' country musician. Since 2011 Zack Fedor has been a regular feature of bars, tavern's, fairs, and festivals all across the Midwest. Playing songs and Zack Fedor is Illinois' barstool musician.
FB: Zack Fedor and The Long Goodbyes
Insta/threads: @zack.fedor + @andthelonggoodbyes
X: @whoszackfedor
Tiktok: Zack.Fedor
BorderTown & Co.
Bordertown & Co. is a trailblazing country-rock band from the heart of East-Central Illinois, known for their high-energy performances and genre-blending sound. Their fusion of traditional country roots with rock/ metal dynamism creates a distinctive and unforgettable listening experience. Whether you're a fan of hard-hitting guitar riffs, soulful country twang, or heartfelt lyrics, Bordertown & Co. offers a little something for everyone. Deeply rooted in their East-Central Illinois origins, the band’s music reflects the experiences and stories of their hometown. Each song blends Americana storytelling with modern rock influences, creating a sound that's both nostalgic and fresh. With a passionate commitment to pushing musical boundaries, Bordertown & Co. has gained a reputation for captivating audiences, whether performing at local honky-tonks or on large festival stages. Their live shows are nothing short of electrifying, bringing an infectious energy that invites fans to sing along, dance, and connect. From upbeat anthems to soul-searching ballads, Bordertown & Co. delivers a powerful mix of catchy hooks, relatable lyrics, and undeniable stage presence.
Rachel Swain // Thrifty Kid
Rachel Swain doesn’t mind when people two-step to her pain; she welcomes it. Her hallmark sound blends infectious melodies with lyrics that explore a wide emotional range and span country, rock, and soul. She has captivated audiences across genres with her powerful voice, rich songwriting, and deeply honest music. Born and raised in Texas, she developed a passion for music from a young age watching her parents perform at nightclubs in Houston. After relocating to Chicago, she cut her teeth as a performer and songwriter, learning to play the fiddle, guitar, and bass. Swain's music is honest, soulful, and steeped in her Texas roots.
@rachelswainmusic on instagram
Thrifty Kid is an alternative country band out of Chicago,Illinois. Blending the songwriting of greats like John Prine and Townes Van Zandt with the rowdiness of a Honky Tonk dance floor. The Honky Tonk comes from some Honky Tonk legends such as Buck Owens, George Jones, Emmylou Harris and Gram Parsons just to name a few. Thrifty Kid is guaranteed to get your butt out on the floor and maybe even cry a tear or two into your Old Style."
https://www.instagram.com/thrifty.kid.band
Kent Rose & the Remedies
Kent Rose has blazed a trail in Chicago of original roots-country songs, hillbilly fashion, and soulful performance. Inspired by Hank Williams, Sr., Merle Haggard and Billy Joe Shaver, Kent carries the torch with his motto: The Roots Tradition Rolls On. His band, The Remedies, is composed of veteran talent that came together and forged a sound unlike any other. “Kent Rose: Chicago country music royalty.” - Jon Langford of Waco Brothers and the Mekons“He's an old school yodeling honky-tonk dude! He writes some righteously twangin' originals.” - Chris Gillock of Evanston RoundTable“A great voice and outstanding material.” - Chris Casello, guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer, showman "He’s a throwback to the guitar-toting country troubadours of yesteryear and at the same time a product of the rock and roll era, certainly the only performer of his kind in the greater Chicagoland area". - Bill Dahl, music historian and journalist
Two Step Tuesdays : 1st Tuesday with The Hoyle Brothers
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Rami Gabriel & Alex Hall
Rami Gabriel is a composer and producer who plays Oud, Buzuq, and Guitar. Rami leads Chicago favorites The Arab Blues and Rami & the Reliables. His solo album, That's what I been sayin' was released by Sooper records in 2024. Alex Hall is a drummer and the recording engineer who runs Reliable Recorders.
The Rangers
Homegrown Chicagoland Country and Wild Western. The Rangers, full steam ahead on their “Cowboy in a Bottle Tour” bring an electric and dynamic show to the stage, and make every show a night to remember!
The Rangers Band (Facebook) @therangersband (instagram) @therangersband (TikTok)
Two Step Tuesdays : 4th Tuesday with Lawrence Peters
A good time dance party with our local favorites.
Dance floor is open!
Two Steppers!
$5 cover
Cmon down even if you don’t have a partner!
Meg & The Wheelers
Meg & The Wheelers are a country western band from Chicago, Illinois, formed by songwriter Meg Sampson in 2018. Their distinct sound draws on the rich history of country music, with influences ranging from Margo Price to Loretta Lynn. Meg & The Wheelers craft a unique & exciting spin on the music that made them, combining modern lyrics with traditional melodies, weaving tales of love & loss that feel both fresh & timeless
https://www.instagram.com/megandthewheelers
REGULAR WEEKLY FUN!
TUESDAY at 8PM - Two Step Tuesday $5 Cover - Local Favorites
THURSDAYS at 9PM — Karaoke w/ JK
SUNDAY—WEDNESDAY — Free pool all night!