Nightjar Promotions presents four wonderful original local singer-songwriters in conjunction with the C-U Folk & Roots Festival.
In just six short months since moving to Champaign from Southwest Missouri, Justin Larkin, a/k/a Midas the Crow, has gained a devoted following with his heartfelt songs and outgoing personality. His music has gained the acclaim of other musicians, too – many requesting to play with him at local showcases. Continue reading
David Howie is no less than a legend in this town. A singer/songwriter/guitarist, he also covers a song catalog of astonishing range. Continue reading
Kevin Elliott has maintained an uninterrupted love affair with the contemporary folk sound he first heard as a child in the 1960’s. This sound, which has ebbed and flowed in the culture, but which has never disappeared, is experiencing yet another resurgence in popularity today.
Over the past 30 years or so, Kevin has written numerous songs, written pieces for solo guitar, performed alone and with others, and now has finally released his first CD, You Really Had To Be There. He is a talented singer and guitarist who composed all of the songs on the album.
Emily Otnes is an 18-year-old singer/songwriter from Urbana, Illinois. Her musical style is a mix of jazz, pop, and folk, created through the use of vocals, piano, guitar, ukulele, and flute. She is currently studying at the University of Illinois and is a member of the a cappella group, Girls Next Door. Emily has performed at the Pygmalion Festival, as well as at local venues throughout her years here.
Robbie Fulks kicked off the very first CU Folk and Roots Festival in 2009 and we’re thrilled to have him back! Don’t miss his humor-laced alt-country uniqueness.
New Orleans-based Gina Forsyth is an award-winning singer/songwriter, who is known for her wizardry on fiddle and guitar. With an alto as unique as it is soulful, unpretentious songs that cut straight to the heart, and a wicked sense of humor, her live performances are legend. Considered one of the best Cajun fiddlers in Louisiana (no small feat), Gina is in demand from many other musicians as a session player, and for club gigs and festivals.
Singer-songwriter Margaret M. O’Brien grew up on the South Side of Chicago in the Beverly neighborhood, and has lived in New Mexico, Oregon and California as well. She picked up the mountain dulcimer after attending the Gebhard Woods Dulcimer Festival about 7 years ago, meeting the Blue Lion folks and falling in love with the instrument. It was the perfect accompaniment for her original songs and lustrous voice.
Margaret has loved the music of Mother Maybelle Carter and her plaintiff mountain sound, the joy and spirit of Joni Mitchell, the guts and skill of Bonnie Raitt and Jude Johnstone, the humour and stories of Jim Post, John Prine and Bob Dylan, the down-to-earth Robert Johnson, not to mention Simon & Garfunkel and The Beatles. So many incredible musicians out there, so much inspiration to draw and learn from and hopefully, emulate.
Additional information can be found on her Facebook page.
Saturday, November 3rd, 7:00pm-7:45pm
Heartland Gallery
Wristband or cover
The Champaign/Urbana Singer/Songwriter’s collective has been meeting regularly for over a year and a half to support each other in their songwriting endeavors. Come join them at the Iron Post as they perform some of their favorite songs. John Coppess, an original member of the group will host the performance, which includes an open mic for anyone wanting share a song.
Saturday, November 3rd, 12:00pm-1:00pm
Iron Post
Free