You are invited to come and enjoy an exciting day of phenomenal singer/songwriter showcases. This songwriter music festival treats music lovers to a wide variety of amazing songs and the people and stories behind the finely crafted tunes.
The Old Bolivar Station (OBS) Songwriter Festival will give attendees the opportunity to experience tomorrow’s headliners in small-stage "listening room" performances. Artists will perform across several venues and two main stages in historic downtown Sanger. In its essence, the OBS Songwriters Festival is all about finely-crafted SONGS, and the talented folks who have written them.
All shows downtown are FREE.
Old Bolivar Station
Songwriter Festival
Headliner
Jordan Shepard &
The Cypress Knees
Jordan Sheppard is a singer-songwriter and Nashville recording artist from northeast Louisiana. Recognized by the Nashville Songwriters Association as "One to Watch". His new record, "Changing Leaves" was cut on Music Row with producer Kent Wells (Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire) and is available now on all major streaming platforms.
Rowdy Franks
West Tennessee native Rowdy seeks to bridge the divide of musical genres. Blending his sonic style with Rock, Country, Soul, and Alternative, to name a few. Rowdy collides soulful melodies with raw vocal emotion, encapsulating an old-school grit while pushing the boundaries of today's musical standards.
Holly Ortego
Holly Ortego is an AWAL/Sony Music Entertainment signed artist and BMI Nashville singer/songwriter known for hit singles like “Me and Jesus Are Cool” and “Stay a Little Longer (With Me),” which climbed into the Top 40 Charts across the Gulf Coast States in 2022. Recognized by Amazon Music, Bandcamp, and SoundCloud, Holly, born in Mamou, Louisiana, continues to dominate local and regional radio and major streaming platforms. Her latest single, “Hide Every Gun,” released in February, received critical acclaim. Working with renowned producers and musicians, she has solidified her place in the music industry and maintains a loyal fanbase through active engagement and a robust performance schedule.
Alexandra Tayara
Alexandra Tayara is a singer-songwriter based in Denton, TX. Her body of work spans multiple genres, ranging from the dark to the dreamy, inspired by indie folk, pop, and blues. She was trained classically as a mezzo-soprano and transitioned into the folk/indie realm when she picked up the guitar. Her aim is to transform what she's learned and experienced into accessible art so that others may find solace.
.png)
Ben Allen Curry
Born in Oklahoma, raised in Louisiana, living and working in Texas, Ben Curry arrives on scene to provide a fresh voice in the Vibrant Southern American Singer/Songwriter Genre. Ben draws on past and present, visceral and surreal, with a timbre that aches for nostalgic pleasantries for the listener. Often referred to as “The Songbird of North Louisianaâ€, he aptly earns the title by finding a tune for every mood and part of the day
Beaux Atkins
Beaux Atkins, with his soulful southern voice and charismatic personality, began playing guitar a few years ago and now earns his living performing across the Deep South. He has shared the stage with notable acts like Blackberry Smoke and The Eli Young Band. In August 2015, he collaborated with Louisiana singer/songwriter/producer Monty Russell to create an album at Studio on the Ridge in Peagram, TN. The album features contributions from renowned musicians and vocalists, including The McCrary Sisters and Bethany Raybourn. Showcasing his Southern Rock anthems and soulful blues, the album, titled "Shout Hallelujah," explores themes of love, redemption, and the musician's journey.
HaileyAnna Finlay
I have been performing my original music in clubs, festivals, churches, coffee shops, and house concerts for more than 20 years. I grew up listening to great Texas poets and songwriters and was afforded an excellent education in the history of Texas and Americana music. My first "real" gig was when I was 12, opening for a young Todd Snider (MCA/Margaritaville/Aimless Records) at a coffee shop in San Marcos. My late father, Kent Finlay, helped shape many musical careers, and I was lucky to learn from him as well as several of the people he mentored. In the last year, things have started to come together: recording my third album of all original songs, recording at Steve Ripley's historic studio near Tulsa, Oklahoma, opportunities to play important and influential shows, and writing new songs every day.
Christopher Weir
Christopher Weir has spent the past 25 years entertaining as an actor, award-winning speaker, emcee, and singer-songwriter, performing from California to Texas. He has shared stages with legends like John Prine and Roger Cook and draws inspiration from story songs, ignited by Johnny Cash's "Don't Take Your Guns to Town" and Jerry Jeff Walker's "Navajo Rug." His first studio recording, "The Winter That Daddy Died," a tribute to his late father, was released in 2022. Christopher's upcoming single "Ten Feet Tall" will be released on April 5, 2024, followed by the full 11-track album on May 17, 2024.
Blacktop Bloodline
Blacktop Bloodline is a Red Dirt/Neo Traditional Country band from southern Oklahoma known for their original music that captures drinking songs, heartbreak tunes, and celebrations of life, evoking a range of emotions. The band members met at a jam at Blake Shelton's Ole Red, instantly connecting over their talents. They have released two singles on all streaming platforms and plan to release a new single every six weeks, supported by a promotional tour. The band features Dylan Powell (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Doug Powell (lead vocals, lead guitar), Nonie Taliaferro (drums, backup vocals), and Morgan Morris (bass guitar).
David Arvisu
David Arvisu is a true musical powerhouse, seamlessly blending the finest elements of his English, American, and Mexican musical influences. His unique style and soulful melodies promise an unforgettable evening of music that transcends borders and genres.
Josh Smith
Since 2014, Josh Smith has been writing songs and performing both solo and with his band Handsome and the Humbles. With a style described as "Garage Americana" and drawing comparisons to artists such as Uncle Tupelo, Wilco, and Jason Isbell, Josh's music and songwriting have drawn praise from multiple media outlets, including American Songwriter and No Depression as well as spending time on the Americana Music Association charts. Regarding Smith's songwriting, Gerry Driver of Photogroupie UK writes:
"No matter if the stories Smith weaves are uplifting or tragic, there's always something deeply human about how he constructs them. They are simple and poetic, with nothing extraneous. Every line he sings feels as though he's laying bare our frailties. "
MackMartin
MackMartin, comprised of Mackenzie Bryce (Texas) and Ross Martin (South Carolina), is an alternative country duo that blends their southern background and love of authentic country music into a unique sound. Influenced by Eagles, Rascal Flatts, The Chicks, and Chris Stapleton, their likes for alternative country bleeds through into their image and music. With strong vocals displaying their clever and unapologetic lyrics, MackMartin's rare ability to emotionally control an audience makes them a commanding act.
Jillian Hudson
When Jillian takes the stage, a raw and electrifying energy captivates audiences, leaving an indelible mark on their souls. Drawn to music at an early age, her extraordinary vocal talent, which effortlessly soars from soulful lows to spine-tingling highs, began to emerge in childhood. Jillian's journey as a singer-songwriter started in her hometown's bars and honky tonks, where she poured her heart into lyrics that resonated deeply with listeners, touching on themes of resilience, love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. As she continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, her powerful voice and soulful foundation ignite a spark within the hearts of those who listen, a spark that endures long after the final chord fades away.
Patrick Cooper
Patrick Cooper, a singer/songwriter from New Orleans, Louisiana, has been performing since age 12. Starting in Shreveport and later moving to Baton Rouge, he began writing his own songs before relocating to Santa Cruz, California, in 1988. There, he played at numerous venues along the West Coast. Returning to Louisiana in 2011, Cooper now regularly performs at Kerry Irish Pub in New Orleans and tours in Pensacola, Florida, and Ocean Springs, Mississippi. He has opened for notable artists like David Egan, Darrell Scott, David Bromberg, and Paul Thorn. A finalist in the 2020 Great River Folk Festival Songwriting Contest, he is also a member of the Roots/Americana Band Cast Iron Cactus. His album "Gris Gris In Your Face" was released in 2013, followed by his EP "Somewhat Live" in 2020.
Mike Mancy
Texas/Red Dirt, Alt-country, rock band. Toured 8 states since 1999 and had 3 albums and 1 EP. They had a career-pausing injury for several years but now fully recovered over the past 4 years. Played with every big act in the scene over the past 24 years, either on the same stage, at a festival, or as the opening act. We've had 10 songs on the radio across the 8 toured states, and several of them were on the Texas Radio Charts. Mike had 3 songs in independent films, sang the national anthem at a Dallas Stars game, and played a song on the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders "Making the Squad" TV show. He just returned from Ireland and will be in the upcoming series "Highway Home," which is about Veterans with PTSD. The series is to be aired in June 2024. Recording this summer in Nashville, TN, with Zac Maloy, lead singer for the Nixons. Zac has several #1 hits on country and rock radio and is a perfect fit for our music. We have been writing together for months.
Ty Junah
18 year old Local singer/songwriter for 2 years, highschool student, specializes in country, blues, and grunge
Andrea Smith
Andrea Smith, a talented singer-songwriter from Paradise, TX, has been passionate about singing since she was a little girl. At the age of 16, she began to focus intently on her singing, and by 18, she discovered her love and talent for writing music. Specializing in Country and Christian genres, Andrea has released several captivating singles, including "In Your Eyes" and "I Don't Have to Wonder (written by Ron Grimes)." Her heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice continue to resonate with audiences, showcasing her unique blend of musical artistry.
Zebb Rogers
Zebb Rogers is a singer/songwriter from Louisiana. His musical influences include Country, Americana, Southern Soul, and Christian Music. Through the years, those influences have molded into a sound of his own. He and the band deliver heartfelt performances, whether it be an intimate acoustic show or throwing down on the big stage. They also feature beautiful harmonies and a plethora of Original music and their favorite covers. He has had the pleasure of opening for acts such as Joe Nichols, Maddie and Tae, Tracy Byrd, Kenny Beard, and more. They have been featured at many festival events such as the Natchitoches Jazz and Christmas festivals, Boofest, Rambling on the Red, Red River Revel, Battle of the Bands, and more.
Ella Salter
Rooted in the heart of South Alabama with a dash of Texas influence, Ella Salter embodied the soulful essence of Americana and Red Dirt Country. With a voice that resonates with both the depth of Janis Joplin and the classic country tones of icons like Dolly Parton, Ella Salter's music captures the spirit of the Southern landscape. Praised by Adobe and Teardrops as a singer who belongs in the pantheon of country music's greatest, Salter has taken her passion for storytelling through song to new heights.
Adara Kay
Born & Raised in Southern Oklahoma, Adara Kay found her grit and rock energy the first time she stepped on stage in 2018. Since then, she has perfected a high-energy performance that watchers will remember down the road. She's been able to not only share the stage with other independent artists but she's also been able to introduce new songwriters from other states into the Oklahoma music scene. Influenced by Country & Rock artists like Koe Wetzel, Giovannie & The Hired Guns, The Wight Lighters, Larkin Poe, Dorothy, and more, Adara Kay was inspired to put her spin on the genres to create a sense of freedom and carefree affirmations for all to appreciate.
Kadence Jones
Kadence Jones is a singer/songwriter & all-around entertainer currently residing in Dallas but originally from Michigan. Kadence has traveled & lived all across the world performing full-time for the past 15 years. Kadence is influenced by artists like Usher, Beyonce, Brandy & Jazmine Sullivan. Kadence has released 4 singles in the last 2 years and is now gearing up to finally release a new single next month entitled Your Luvâ.
Ron Grimes
Ron Grimes, a ten-time multiplatinum songwriter from Lewisville, Texas, has collaborated with phenomenal artists such as LeAnn Rimes, Imaj, Jennifer Lynn, Pat Horner, David Norris, Michael Gardner, Lacy Jade, Deidre Thornell, Matt Heffner, and Andrea Smith. After nearly giving up on his music career, a prayer for guidance led him to witness his first record-cut artist win Artist of the Year at the Grammys within six months. Ron has written Grammy-winning songs with LeAnn Rimes, performed nationwide with Imaj, and had his song “Every Shadow Proves That There’s a Light” featured by the Cure Glaucoma Foundation. His collaborations have taken him to the finals of the Country Colgate Showdown, headlining festivals, and contributing theme songs for various foundations. Currently, Ron is finalizing a worship record with Matthew Heffner and an album project with Andrea Smith. He cherishes making music with his kids and believes that “The secret of a great song can be summed up in one word: Truth.”
Chuck Rogers
Chuck D Rogers is a singer/songwriter/bandleader based out of Dallas, TX. His last album, Black Dirt, received two Josie Independent Music Award Nominations. Chuck performs solo or with his band, The Texas Blacklands, and can be found on stages all across Texas. He has been featured by The House of Blues two times as an up-and-coming country artist, performed at the Dallas Stars Pregame Show, and rocked the dance floor at Gilley's, just to name a few. He has multiple music videos with hundreds of thousands of views and a large online following. His latest single, 18 Pack, just hit the streaming sites on 4/1/2024.
Erica Ryleigh
Country singer/songwriter Erica Ryleigh captivates audiences with her delicate delivery and gritty, unfiltered songwriting, appealing to both cowboys and hippies alike. Her debut EP, "I’ve Been There," released in 2022, was a major hit, with the track "What I Left For" featured on the Spotify Fresh Finds Playlist and garnering over 20,000 listens in the first week. In 2023, she released the enthusiastically received single "Rough Around The Edges," showcasing her unique, captivating style evident in all her projects.
Shara Layne
From Iowa City, Shara's singing and songwriting journey began with her first performance at age three in St. Louis in 1987. By age two, she had memorized over 40 children’s songs and wrote her first song at 15. After marrying her first love, Jeffrey, in 2008 and having four kids, Shara joined The Breakeven Band in 2009 and co-founded Thumpdaddy in Memphis in 2014. Thumpdaddy was voted "Memphis Most's Best Band" by The Commercial Appeal in 2023. As an official recording artist at Supernova Sound with Producer Dave Cowell, Shara released her second single, "Close," in May 2023. Performing across the mid-South with Shara Layne & The Drive, Shara & Sky Duo & Trio, and Thumpdaddy, she also hosts a bi-monthly Songwriters’ Showcase at Lafayette’s Music Room. Shara aims to connect and empower with her original music, inspiring others to chase their dreams and never give up.
Isabella Love
My name is Isabella Love, and I am a small-town country girl. I grew up singing as a little girl and now have decided to start chasing my dreams. I've released two singles in the past two years and plan on releasing three this upcoming year.
This past year I opened for the Kentucky Headhunters and played at the Old Bolivar Songwriting Festival as well as being nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year for the Josie Music Awards. Although I am a female singer, that does not deter me from singing male covers like Hank Williams Jr. and Brooks and Dunn. I love to combine a modern and traditional country setlist to make sure that everyone can enjoy and sing along. I also write or co-write most of my own songs in hopes that people can connect with them!