Mixing up an unlikely concoction of vintage rock & roll and outlaw country, Cole Diamond is, depending on when you ask, either the stage name for singer/songwriter Ryan Otte or the collective handle for Otte and his Band. For years Otte spent most weekends behind a drum kit playing with too many band to list. The idea for Cole Diamond came about as a way for Otte to step out from behind the drums and try his hand at the front of the stage. In the years since “Cole Diamond” was conceived he has released an EP, a string of singles, received airplay on 89.3 The Current, and opened for national acts such as Corb Lund. Drawing on influences that range from Waylon and Willie to Brooks & Dunn, Cole Diamond delivers a modern take on a classic sound.

Henry Bitzer is a 17 year old musician stationed in West St. Paul, Minnesota. Henry plays atvenues in and around the Twin Cities, showcasing the musical abilities he has honed over the past 5 years under the tutiliage of 2getherproductions music studio. He thoroughly enjoys singing, playing guitar, and exhibiting his classical piano skills for audiences anywhere. Henry performs a wide variety of songs as a solo act, and is even occasionally accompanied by other musical acts such as guitarist Bennett Bamsey, or his music instructors, the talented duo Kathryn and Andy Karg.

Excellent multi-instrumentalists, musicians and performers Johnny Holliday & Willie Moore serenade audiences with their unique renditions of popular songs and original music providing an amazing show that is tailored to any event.

Award winning musician, Joe Flip, performing with his hand-made oil can guitars, is now receiving international radio-play and recognition for his many talents.

His album, "Tin Can Tunes," charted #2, along with his song "Mess Around," charting #1 on the international RMR Radio Charts earning him a 2019 Blues Blast Magazine Music Award nomination. Joe also represented Minnesota at the 2019 International Blues Competition in Memphis, TN, advancing to the semi-finals.

His hand-made oil can guitars, "Hayburners”, have been sold all over the world and have been featured on FOX 9 News, Blues in Britain Magazine, CNET, and The Drive Magazine.

Not only content with performing, Joe also serves as a music teacher and promoter of "Blues for Kids," a music education program he created at the 501c3 non-profit organization, "Discover Music". The program is known for organizing workshops at schools and festivals with the mission of teaching children of all ages about the Blues music genre with harmonica and guitar.

Continuing her father's musical legacy, St. Paul, Minnesota-native, Monique Smaz writes and performs as a vocalist, guitarist, drummer, pianist, and bassist. Beginning with private vocal lessons at age five, Monique developed a love for singing with the piano, which led to private piano lessons at age six. Shortly after, Monique joined the St. Paul School of Rock at age seven where she continued vocal and piano lessons, eventually adding in guitar, bass, and drum lessons by the age of 11. Monique has always had a passion for music and has high hopes and aspirations to build a life allowing her to continue playing and performing forever.

After leaving The School of Rock at age 16, Monique took her love of performing in bands to new depths as she now primarily performs as a solo acoustic act. Monique loves to write her own music as well as cover some of the greats. Monique's biggest inspiration has and always will be her father, but she continues to be influenced by a wide variety of other artists. Monique uses artists such as Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin, Dolly Parton, and Johnny Cash to inspire her original music. Monique's roots run deep in country/rock/soul, which shines through in her original music. Her covers include music of all genres and decades.

J Train Jazz is a four piece jazz combo led by ‘power-tenor’ Jerry Parker playing standards, Motown, R&B and post-modern jukebox-style renditions of contemporary tunes.

Connections between partners, whether they be spiritual, romantic or creative can be the origin of true magic. The journey of Brianna and Kurt, and evolution of their creative collaboration, has yielded albums that defines both of them through the vehicle of The Jorgensens. There is an honest authenticity of the repertoire they’ve created which is both timeless and classic.  Their performances are genuine, soulful and relatable for many who will hear these songs. This kismet did not emerge overnight, but is the product of years of being in one another’s creative lives, collaboration, friendship, and inevitably falling in love. 

 Kurt and Brianna began working with one another in 2014.  They were introduced by her mother, who had been a long-time fan. Brianna recalls, “She thought that we would work well together and knew that Kurt had put out multiple records that sounded great. We met in St. Paul at his house and I played through some of my original material. As soon as he started playing along with me the music instantly clicked. There’s no denying that it was a musical match from the get go, and we became fast friends. Every week we’d get together and cut tracks at his studio, and in the process shared details about our lives. We saw one another through some tough times. It was a moment in time where Kurt was getting divorced, and I was getting sober. What a pair we were. The writing and recording gave us an out from each of our realities. Detaching from the drama, we were able to place our energy into creating something good. As I approached the end of the recording process it occurred to me that my time with Kurt was possibly coming to a close, and it saddened me. Not only musically did I love working with Kurt but I’d grown to love Kurt as my near and dear friend. I think he was the first person I’d ever been honest with in my life, and I didn’t want the collaboration to end. Kurt felt the same way, and we decided we were going to write, produce, and record an album together, while playing acoustic gigs as a duo. We completed our first album titling it ‘Love Wins’ because in the process we fell in love with each other romantically.” 

 For Kurt, he reflects, “I was interested in producing other musicians, but was not interested in just recording people for money. I had listened to some of Brianna’s music and thought she had some well written songs and a very distinctive voice that separated her from other female singers. It is important to me to be unique or different, and Brianna felt refreshingly real in every way. As you would imagine we spent hours, days, and nights with each other so it was easy to start falling in love. She would show up in the morning for breakfast, and hours later would be leaving after a late dinner. As we were getting close to finishing, we had talked about the possibility of me playing guitar in her band. She didn’t have enough material to fill a full night so we started adding in some of my songs, and not long after we were bouncing song ideas off each other and it clicked fast.  We formed as a team, and re-tooled my band as co-band leaders. Since then we have never spent a day apart.  She is the love of my life on and off stage, and we have a 5-year-old boy and some great music as a reward.”

 When asked about what specifically about strengths the other partner brings to the table Kurt shares, “She wants to be the best, and wants us the be the best at what we do. I love her voice, no one sounds like her. Brianna’s song writing is not tide down with rules, and it gives her a fantastic freedom that makes her real. All of my favorite songwriters have that quality, and I am sure it is one of the things that draws me to her.” And for Brianna, she reveals, “Kurt knows how to write a great song. Writing together is fun and challenging. Fun because bouncing creative ideas off of someone inevitably leads you to an end result you couldn’t have come up with on your own. Challenging because when you’re writing with someone, you’re vulnerable. When you can show that side of yourself to someone in a creative way inspiration strikes and creation blossoms.” 

 The repertoire that has become “The Lexington Stretch” and their latest "Americana Soul" is an amalgamation of genres colliding with ease and flow that organically morphed into a sound that simply feels natural to the listener. Whether inspiration is drawn from the roots of the Blues, musicianship embodied in Jazz, or the heartfelt purity that defines great singer-songwriters and elements prevalent in Americana, this band’s music is simply their own.  These albums are a testament to the beauty of witnessing a melting pot fusing varying inspiration together while creating a cultural afghan that feels warm and cozy once woven together. Songs that define this realized vision include “Voodoo,” and “Storyville,” while others like “Goin’ Goin’ Gone” are simply genre-specific.

 Alongside the original repertoire, the cover of Willie Dixon’s “If the Sea Was Whiskey” is a standout tribute to the classic. Kurt recalls, “I have loved Willie Dixon since I was 15. Once my parents were out of town, and I knew he lived in Chicago.  So, I called every Willie Dixon in the Chicago area to tell my hero how much I loved his music. I never did get him on the phone. I’ve wanted to record a song of his since that early age, and with the theme and feel of this album it fit. I did spend the rest of my 15th summer paying off our long-distance bill, seeing that my dad was not very happy about my quest.” The recording of “St James Infirmary” was the first track captured for this album. Brianna shares, “While we were working on my solo album back on 2014, one day we were taking a break he and asked me if I was interested in hearing what he was working on. I obviously was, and so he played this song for me. I was blown away, and asked what he was going to do with the recording. I was shocked when he told me ‘probably nothing’ because it didn’t fit appropriately anywhere on albums he had coming up. He had recorded it for himself because he loves jazz, and was inspired by a version he had heard the Preservation Hall band perform. We started hanging out in New Orleans quite a bit, and was instantly in love with the city.  I felt at home there, and was enchanted by the sound, performances, storytelling, culture, food, fashion, architecture, EVERYTHING. At some point I told Kurt the next album we do has to be something that his version of ‘St. James Infirmary’ would fit onto appropriately. His rendition of that song in my opinion shaped the whole sound of this album. Now, we obviously weren’t going to record a whole album of traditional New Orleans jazz, BUT we could create an environment through horn arrangements and storytelling that made that song feel right at home.”

 The album title (The Lexington Stretch) celebrates the Jorgensens every day life. It’s a reference to an area where they live, write music, record their songs, eat dinner as a family, entertain, and reflect on all things that are life. But more broadly an ode to St. Paul, Minnesota. The Twin Cities have treated them well professionally, where they continue to perform hundreds of shows a year supported by the fans and musicians who have one of the greatest scenes across America’s cities. Kurt was acknowledged by the Minnesota Music Awards with the trifecta - Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Songwriter of the Year. He reflects, “I think I was able to do that here because of our strongly supported art and music scene. It is diverse and the quality of life is great. If it weren’t for our cold winters everyone would want to live here. You’ve got be tough to make it through 20 below zero and lack of sunlight for months on end. The summers are amazing, and many of musicians who do live here (all very tough) are as good as you will find any place on Earth. Brianna adds, “I love living here because it’s beautiful, progressive, entertaining, and comfortable and these are all things that fuel my creativity. I have a sense of belonging when I’m here. I feel peace, and pure happiness. St. Paul is filled with wonderful restaurants (I’m a major food enthusiast), book stores, coffee houses, nature parks, museums, theaters, historical sites, I mean the list goes on and on. I’m loud and proud about St. Paul and I always will be.” 

 The union and commitment these two individuals made to one another has been the core of this evolving creation which grows exponentially with every passing year. As Brianna reflects, “Sometimes when you do life together to this degree you forget about the deep stuff. We are to a point where we know one another so well that we can basically speak without speaking. Reflecting on us, it makes me feel the clarity that we do have something special here and I can’t wait for more people across The World to hear, feel, and embrace this small piece of us we aim share through our songs.” Kurt offers, “Looking back, I am proud of the legacy of collected works which encompass over a hundred songs released before we started working together. I had been trying to create the Americana Soul sound for a long time. It plateaued, and needed fresh life.  Brianna helps me grow, and to be a more ‘unchained’ artist than I was before (pun intended).  With this album, I think we’ve finally reached that pocket where there is a balance of creativity, songs and the sound we’ve been hearing in our heads slowly refining themselves to become what is now “The Lexington Stretch.”

Minneapolis based musician Tim (Timothy) Howe has been serenading his way onto the Minnesota Music Scene since 2008. First preforming in coffee shops and local clubs, Howe has been able to make his one-man show into a must see event!

Using smooth vocals, looping abilities, and acoustic singer/songwriter style, Howe has created a sound that will leave you completely awe-struck. Charismatic, soulful, and ambitious, Howe has propelled himself to headlining such venues as the “Fine Line Music Cafe” in Minneapolis, MN, melting the “Saint Paul Winter Carnival” main stage, and also being runner-up in the 101.3 KDWB “Break Out Star” Competition in 2009.

He has graced the small screen, being the featured musician on QCTV’s (Quad Cities Television) “Suburban Mix” as well as local radio broadcasts “Cities97” and “101.3 KDWB.” Howe has also been a “preferred audition” for NBC’s “The Voice” in 2011, and 2012, and has earned comparisons to such artists as Jason Mraz, Gavin Degraw, and Bruno Mars.

Howe is definitely an artist not to be missed. When people ask for, “Tim Who?” You know they want “Tim Howe.”

Heartfelt, raw acoustic country, folk, rock + blues.

Mixing up an unlikely concoction of vintage rock & roll and outlaw country, Cole Diamond is, depending on when you ask, either the stage name for singer/songwriter Ryan Otte or the collective handle for Otte and his Band. For years Otte spent most weekends behind a drum kit playing with too many band to list. The idea for Cole Diamond came about as a way for Otte to step out from behind the drums and try his hand at the front of the stage. In the years since “Cole Diamond” was conceived he has released an EP, a string of singles, received airplay on 89.3 The Current, and opened for national acts such as Corb Lund. Drawing on influences that range from Waylon and Willie to Brooks & Dunn, Cole Diamond delivers a modern take on a classic sound.

Modern country singer/songwriter/guitarist Roger Allen resides in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota.  After visiting his grandfather, a World War II combat veteran interred at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Roger wrote his first song called White Crosses.  People began asking him where they could get that song.  Roger recorded that song on his debut EP along with an upbeat modern country song Apologize about jealousy, faithfulness, and loyalties in a relationship and Could It Be You a song about a sweet scent bringing back once forgotten memories.

Excellent multi-instrumentalists, musicians and performers Johnny Holliday & Willie Moore serenade audiences with their unique renditions of popular songs and original music providing an amazing show that is tailored to any event.

Kijana “KJ” Gant is a smooth and soulful R&B vocalist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was born in Chicago, raised in Gary, Indiana, and came under the spell of music at just 12 years old. He writes songs about life, love, and relationships in an effort to make all three become better. Kijana has drawn comparisons to legendary performers like Luther Vandross, Brian McKnight, and Frankie Beverly but has crafted his own original style that stands out both musically and lyrically.

His motivation is to share his love and passion for music with the world and to let his audiences experience what he feels onstage. He’s been performing steadily in regional clubs and building a fan base. His plan for 2021 and beyond is to book festival shows and to open for national acts whose fans will appreciate his unique voice and engaging stage presence. 

More than anything, Kijana is here to show the world how music can uplift and inspire individual lives. His performances are an outpouring of love and emotional energy and his blend of Pop, Soul, and R&B is powerful enough to propel him to the highest levels of the music industry. The 2020s are going to be big for Kijana and he belongs on the radar of anyone seeking the next great modern R&B singer.

Cocktail Combo brings the classics you know, but with a twist. Whether it’s Uptown Funk as a ballad, Eagles gone reggae, or ragtime Britney Spears, these musical mixologists will shake up your favorite songs in new and exciting ways!

Jordan Roll, Michael Brookens, and Nate Hance all met in music school.  Jordan and Michael went on to form the world champion a cappella group Six Appeal, while Nate established his playful style charming audiences all over the world.

They started Cocktail Combo as a way to freshen up songs they’ve played hundreds of times, utilizing their creativity and combined depth of musical knowledge. The all-encompassing vocals and beatboxing of Jordan and Michael, combined with Nate’s innovative and virtuosic piano playing deliver an experience like no other. The signature ingredients for each show include a multitude of musical genres, timeless hit songs, and live improvisation garnished with a dash of personality.

Cocktail Combo is sure to elevate your spirits!

We are a fresh, multi-genre cover band from the Twin Cities, guaranteed to keep you dancing with a variety of awesome music & unique arrangements all night long. From pop to funk to country to alternative, we play it all!

J Train Jazz is a four piece jazz combo led by ‘power-tenor’ Jerry Parker playing standards, Motown, R&B and post-modern jukebox-style renditions of contemporary tunes.

Continuing her father's musical legacy, St. Paul, Minnesota-native, Monique Smaz writes and performs as a vocalist, guitarist, drummer, pianist, and bassist. Beginning with private vocal lessons at age five, Monique developed a love for singing with the piano, which led to private piano lessons at age six. Shortly after, Monique joined the St. Paul School of Rock at age seven where she continued vocal and piano lessons, eventually adding in guitar, bass, and drum lessons by the age of 11. Monique has always had a passion for music and has high hopes and aspirations to build a life allowing her to continue playing and performing forever.

After leaving The School of Rock at age 16, Monique took her love of performing in bands to new depths as she now primarily performs as a solo acoustic act. Monique loves to write her own music as well as cover some of the greats. Monique's biggest inspiration has and always will be her father, but she continues to be influenced by a wide variety of other artists. Monique uses artists such as Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin, Dolly Parton, and Johnny Cash to inspire her original music. Monique's roots run deep in country/rock/soul, which shines through in her original music. Her covers include music of all genres and decades.

Minneapolis based musician Tim (Timothy) Howe has been serenading his way onto the Minnesota Music Scene since 2008. First preforming in coffee shops and local clubs, Howe has been able to make his one-man show into a must see event!

Using smooth vocals, looping abilities, and acoustic singer/songwriter style, Howe has created a sound that will leave you completely awe-struck. Charismatic, soulful, and ambitious, Howe has propelled himself to headlining such venues as the “Fine Line Music Cafe” in Minneapolis, MN, melting the “Saint Paul Winter Carnival” main stage, and also being runner-up in the 101.3 KDWB “Break Out Star” Competition in 2009.

He has graced the small screen, being the featured musician on QCTV’s (Quad Cities Television) “Suburban Mix” as well as local radio broadcasts “Cities97” and “101.3 KDWB.” Howe has also been a “preferred audition” for NBC’s “The Voice” in 2011, and 2012, and has earned comparisons to such artists as Jason Mraz, Gavin Degraw, and Bruno Mars.

Howe is definitely an artist not to be missed. When people ask for, “Tim Who?” You know they want “Tim Howe.”

The SOBS is an acoustic duo or trio that has over 18 years of experience – one of the longest running acoustic acts in the state. We play local bars, festivals, weddings, or corporate events. We have thousands of songs in our song list and will take requests from all genres: from oldies up to current music.

Tony Cuchetti is a roots rock/Americana artist hailing originally from Detroit, MI. Growing up in a traveling musical family garnered him a multitude of creative experiences that helped shape his rustic, soulful sound. Now based in the Twin Cities area, Cuchetti has become a mainstay in the local music scene, performing his long-in-the-tooth brand of music and relatable stories.

Sarah VanValkenburg is a singer songwriter based in the Minneapolis, St Paul area. She lives in the St Croix River Valley town of Hudson WI. Her shows feature original music along with songs from Americana, folk and country artists.  Sarah plays shows around the St. Croix River Valley, Minneapolis & St. Paul and Austin Texas.

Sarah enjoys playing wine bars, pubs, restaurants, fairs and festivals around her community.  Her wide range of rock, country, and songwriter genres makes for a fun evening. 

Mixing up an unlikely concoction of vintage rock & roll and outlaw country, Cole Diamond is, depending on when you ask, either the stage name for singer/songwriter Ryan Otte or the collective handle for Otte and his Band. For years Otte spent most weekends behind a drum kit playing with too many band to list. The idea for Cole Diamond came about as a way for Otte to step out from behind the drums and try his hand at the front of the stage. In the years since “Cole Diamond” was conceived he has released an EP, a string of singles, received airplay on 89.3 The Current, and opened for national acts such as Corb Lund. Drawing on influences that range from Waylon and Willie to Brooks & Dunn, Cole Diamond delivers a modern take on a classic sound.

Excellent multi-instrumentalists, musicians and performers Johnny Holliday & Willie Moore serenade audiences with their unique renditions of popular songs and original music providing an amazing show that is tailored to any event.

We are a fresh, multi-genre cover band from the Twin Cities, guaranteed to keep you dancing with a variety of awesome music & unique arrangements all night long. From pop to funk to country to alternative, we play it all!