Luke Winslow-King w/ Graham Parsons
This is a standing room only show 18+ or 17 under with a parent or guardian Guitarist, Singer, Producer, Songwriter. Originally from Cadillac, Michigan, Luke Winslow-King conjures a soulful tapestry that fuses delta blues, roots-rock, and folk music. His sound is characterized by masterful slide guitar work, captivating lyrics, and highlighted by a burgundy voice that resonates with earned authenticity. During his 15 years in New Orleans. Luke studied composition at The University of New Orleans, debuted his 2008 album Old-New Baby, was named ‘Best Blues Artist’ by Gambit Magazine, and released his 2018 hit, ‘I’m Glad Trouble Don’t Last Always’ that has now received over 11 million streams on Spotify. He was elected a voting member of the Grammy Recording Academy in 2022. Luke Winslow-King continues to captivate audiences world-wide with his dynamic performances and has formed deep, personal connections with his listeners. Now living in Calatayud, Spain, Luke Winslow-King continues to pursue his quest; to deliver honest, powerful, rustic, and authentic peoples’ music by stage and recording alike. Luke’s 8th studio album, Flash-A-Magic, his fourth on Bloodshot Records, was released in September of 2024. The album features slide guitarist Roberto Luti of ‘Playing for Change’, organist Rev. Charles Hodges (Al Green), and backing vocals from Fat Possum recording artists The Sensational Barnes Brothers.
Celeste Allison “Ghostlore” EP release benefit concert for OutFront Kalamazoo
This is a standing room only show 18+ or 17 under with a parent or guardian After experiencing the tragic loss of her friend and bandmate to suicide, Celeste recorded her debut EP, “Ghostlore.” Understanding the need for dialogue about mental health and suicide prevention, Celeste chose to use her art as a means for healing and change. The project received grant funding from the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo, which enabled her to record the EP and organize a benefit show to raise funds for OutFront Kalamazoo. OutFront is dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals and serves as a resource where everyone can find mental health support and advocacy, something Celeste is very passionate about. The trauma that follows Celeste after losing her friend is a feeling that she knows others in the community carry, and therefore, hopes this benefit show can be a symbol of solidarity, understanding, and healing. Most importantly, she wants the community to know it’s ok to talk. It’s ok to feel. And that no one is alone. Celeste Allison is an independent artist from Kalamazoo, Michigan. Her breakthrough song, UGLY, has over 180k streams on Spotify alone. With sweet but surprising powerhouse vocals paired with sassy lyrics, listeners are left captivated and wanting more. Embracing her queer identity, she actively strives to create music that resonates with individuals and promotes a welcoming environment, particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community. She is presently immersed in the production of her inaugural EP, slated for release in 2025. Jonah Why (she/her) is a 23-year-old singer/songwriter/producer from Kalamazoo, Michigan. Over the years, Jonah has explored multiple genres under various names in her search for authentic self-expression. In January 2023, she embraced the identity of Jonah Why, a project dedicated to being undeniably herself. Unbound by a single style or genre, Jonah channels vulnerability through the discomfort of the unknown, ensuring each piece of work stands uniquely on its own. From pop-punk to psych-rock to electro-funk, her debut album “nevertheless” is the culmination of everything she’s become. Jey Starcross’d is a hip-hop artist and lyrical storyteller from Kalamazoo, Michigan. Focused on introspective raps, genre-homaging beats, and emotionally resonant themes, he accomplished his earliest life goal in 2024 by releasing a rap album, his debut LP, Withdrawal Symptoms. The project features collaborations with fellow rising talents and explores themes of identity, mental health, and creative struggle. With a background based in community and an eye toward the cosmos, Starcross’d crafts music that’s both grounded and expansive—bridging his local roots with a universal sound.
Pride After Party with The Idiot Kids & DJ Mercury Ulia
This is a 18 and over event. Based out of Hamtramck, MI, The Idiot Kids have been making noise since 2011. The Idiot Kids have the energy of punk, the roughened aesthetic of garage rock and the melodic sensibilities of art pop. This is music with shake-you-up hooks, frenzied tempos, gnarly guitars and anthemic vocals. Known for their live performances; they blend the theatricality of glam with the raw energy of hardcore punk. Mercury Ulia doesn’t just play hardstyle — they conjure it. Based in Ann Arbor, they’ve become a force in Southeast Michigan’s underground with sets that move between divine softness and explosive rhythm. Always aiming to connect, not just impress, their sound is emotional, explosive, and impossible to ignore. They’ve been honored to play the MainStage at New Wave Music Festival and share a mix on Detroit’s 313.FM. Whether it’s a packed club or a small underground, Mercury shows up with heart and intention. Every set is a chance to move, feel, and be present — together. There is no charge to attend this event. Outfront Kalamazoo will be accepting $5 donations at the door. Don’t miss out on the fun!
Kyle Smith Bad for Business 2025 Tour with Highdeas
This is a 18+ event with standing room only17 and under admitted with a parent or guardian Kyle Smith from Ventura, CA has been known to push the limits of the “Cali Reggae” sound with influences of Hip-Hop, Punk Rock, and Pop that make it impossible for his style to be defined. He’s known for his tracks about mistakes, imperfections, addictions, and struggles combined with hooks everybody can sing. Kyle’s high energy performances with the band and relentless work ethic are both contributing factors to a rapidly growing fanbase of outcasts all over North America. VIP: – VIP/MEET & GREET – the description to say Private Acoustic Set, Signed Poster, VIP Laminate, KS Bag, Stickers, koozie & Photo with Kyle – we need ALL of the attendees emails 2 days before the show so they know when to arrive – VIP is 1 hour prior to doors
Celebrating Irene Stearns Day and the Kalamazoo Gals who built Gibson’s WWII Guitars
This is a 18+ event with standing room only17 and under admitted with a parent or guardian Suggested Donation of $20 Performers: The Incantations | Ellis & M.E. | Chris Canas Zero Sun | Marisa Aguirre | Author: John Thomas “Sounds of the Zoo Fundraiser” that will honor the life of Irene Stearns, the last surviving Kalamazoo Gal who will turn 103 on January 29, and the contributions of all the Gals. The celebration will take place on January 29, to celebrate Irene Stearns Day at Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo. We will be showcasing the 2022 celebration video of Irene Stearns 100th birthday, feature live music performances, and have John Thomas as one of our special guests.
BareFuzz Presents the Dead Floyd Brothers: A Tribute to the Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd & Allman Brothers
This is a 18 and over event with standing room only 17 and under admitted with a parent or guardian Based out of the burgeoning live music scene of Columbus, OH, BareFuzz cuts through the seemingly never-ending milieu of improvisationally-based rock bands. The quintet – comprised of guitarists/vocalists, Ryan Jones and Andrew Maughan, bassist Adam Tackett, drummer Derek Petrucci, and percussionist Jason Weihl – continues to innovate and excite by taking it’s unique blend of jam, blues, psychedelia, and funk to new levels. The band is fresh off an explosive year that saw them performing across the Midwest at festivals like Summer Camp Music Festival, Secret Dreams Music Festival, Mountain Music Festival and The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival. Relentless touring has seen the band support groups such as Goose, Papadosio, Dark Star Orchestra, The Werks, ekoostik hookah, Andy Frasco & The U.N., and more. Formed in 2016 in Columbus by Jones, Tackett, and Petrucci as a powerful three-piece, the BareFuzz that audiences across the Midwest have become intimately familiar with truly came together two years later with the addition of Maughan and Weihl. Bolstered by the added instrumentation, the band worked its way through the Ohio circuit and across the greater Midwest, taking on a familiar feel with scores of fans identifying BareFuzz as their band. BareFuzz’s sound has since reverberated to larger and larger rooms as the band experiences hard-earned growth both on and offstage, transforming into a nationally touring powerhouse.
Pride After Party wsg DJ GURU
This is a 18 and over event. [guru], aka DJ GRNNPA RUU, is a Detroit-based artist specializing in vibe conduction. With a deep appreciation for the Golden ERA and the city’s grooves, [guru] has a knack for blending the nostalgia of 90s hip-hop with contemporary elements, creating a sound that resonates with both old and new fans. Despite three name changes, one thing has always remained the same — [guru], fka WKDE and TJ the Tiger, is a good music connoisseur. Word to Dilla, Kaytranada, Tribe, and Rufus.$5 donation appreciated at doors
Just Jaye presents a Fundraising Concert for Sounds of the Zoo
This is a 18 and over event. “GAIN is the surge that Kalamazoo needs! JustJaye and Sounds of the Zoo are proudly partnering to present a fundraising concert, featuring regional and local artists. This special collaboration is meant to GAIN support for our Kalamazoo music community, a mission championed by Sounds of the Zoo, and captivating the hearts of JustJaye. GAIN is truly a unique concert experience, produced entirely by the elevating music partnership of Just Listen the Student and Jaye Norwood, known as JustJaye. These performances will galvanize the mind, electrocute the body, and sonically soothe the soul. Help us celebrate the artists of southwest Michigan, and the official launch of JustJaye by contributing to this fundraiser! About Sounds of the Zoo Sounds of the Zoo is a groundbreaking free multicultural music festival and symposium that has taken Kalamazoo by storm in 2022. Established with the vision to empower artists, unite industry professionals, and bring together music lovers worldwide, this event is not just a showcase of local, regional and national acts, but a catalyst for community unity through the powerful medium of music! Their mission statement is, “Creating change through music.” And we do that by empowering and informing our audience, inspiring change in both the mental health and environmental sustainability spheres, and growing Kalamazoo into a destination for live music. We believe that music has the power to transcend boundaries and unite individuals from all walks of life, and we are dissential costs such as stage rentals, sound equipment, permits, marketing efforts, and paying musicians. Any financial assistance you provide will be instrumental in ensuring that Sounds of the Zoo remains a free event, accessible to all members of our community – no matter their economic standing. Please consider donating !! Links to donate- Sounds of the Zoo | Fundraising by Fractured Atlas
