Steve Earle is one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation. A protege of legendary songwriters Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, he quickly became a master storyteller in his own right, with his songs being recorded by Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Joan Baez, Emmylou Harris, The Pretenders, and countless others.
His prolific songwriting is a natural fit for Music City’s Americana, roots, and country communities, garnering praise from publications such as Rolling Stone, Billboard, CMT, Relix, and The Tennessean.
First introduced to a national audience during American Idol, McDonald quickly became known for his unmistakable rasp, magnetic presence, and Southern-rooted style. But beyond the spotlight, his journey has been one of evolution. Stepping away from the noise, he leaned into what defines true artistry: living fully, feeling deeply, and writing honestly.
Formed in 2010, Polyrhythmics have built a reputation for dynamic live performances and deeply textured compositions. Their growing catalog includes fan-favorite releases like Octagon, Caldera, Man from the Future, and their latest album, Life From Below (2025). Each project showcases their fearless approach to genre, fusing global influences with the roots of American funk and soul.
Blending country, folk, and rock influences, Cole Chaney delivers a style that feels both grounded and expansive. His music pulls from deep Appalachian traditions while incorporating the grit and edge of 90s rock, creating a sound that is honest, emotional, and unmistakably his own. With storytelling at the forefront, his songs capture real-life experiences in a way that resonates far beyond the stage.
This special event will feature performances from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga Jazz Band alongside the award-winning Jacksonville State University Jazz Bands I and II. Together, these outstanding musicians will bring the bold sound, energy, and tradition of big band jazz to the Songbirds stage.
Their debut album Heartbreak Summer Camp was recorded in a living room in 2020 stripped down, DIY folk songs tracing their lives from teenage years into their mid-twenties. They followed it with Born Strangers, recorded at Tractor Shed Studio in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, and produced by Mike Eli LoPinto (Chris Stapleton, Emily Nenni). The album earned a devoted cult following and praise from outlets including American Songwriter, Holler, and Twangville. In 2025, The Montvales signed with Free Dirt Records and released the single “Loud and Clear,” signaling even more new music on the horizon.
