Windy Hope is a soulful singer-songwriter and pianist known for her heartfelt performances that blend her worship roots with powerful, emotionally driven originals. From intimate coffee shops to big stages like Summerfest and the Wisconsin State Fair, she captivates audiences with her expressive vocals and genuine connection. Her mission is simple: to touch people’s hearts through music where words alone cannot.
Ben Schmidt is a finger picking guitarist and vocalist currently residing in Waukesha, and Jenn Leo is a vocalist, guitarist, and cajonist from Wauwatosa. We make up the acoustic duo “Ben & Jenn”. Our style leans heavily into Folk, vintage acoustic Blues, and Americana. Our set consists of original music and covers with an Americana twist!
Gene is a singer/songwriter in the tradition of the “Adult Contemporary” folk rock of the 70’s through today, featuring a repertoire of crowd-pleasing cover songs by artists such as Jim Croce, The Eagles, America, Don McLean, Dan Fogelberg, John Denver and many more. Recording artist of original EP’s: This Journey, Another Way to Get By and Ponder.
Adam Blackwood is a Milwaukee singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose music blends pop, piano rock, funk, new wave, and percussion. His influences range across rock, pop, singer-songwriter music, and theatrical performance.
Old Goat Skiffle Band is a gritty, foot-stomping crew keeping the raw spirit of American roots music alive and unfiltered. Blending elements of blues, folk, country, and early rock ’n’ roll, they channel the rough-and-ready energy of traditional skiffle with a modern twist. No polish, no gimmicks—just washboards, twangy strings, and the kind of back-porch rhythm that hits you straight in the gut. Whether on a festival stage or a dive bar floor, Old Goat Skiffle Band brings a no-frills, high-energy sound that makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled straight into the heart of American music history.
Matt Krahula is a singer-songwriter signed to Pacific Records and currently based out of Northern Illinois. His original material has often drawn comparisons to groups such as Mumford and Sons, Avett Brothers and Langhorne Slim. Matt spent 6 years playing bass for Grammy Nominated Henry Kapono in Hawaii. While performing with him, he was fortunate to share the stage with legends such as Chicago & Mick Fleetwood. When not playing with Henry, Krahula worked as a solo artist, and supported acts such as Frank Turner, Silver Sun Pickups, Mike Love and Midland. Before moving to Hawaii, he toured the states relentlessly as lead singer/songwriter for the Folk Rock group, The Nightmare River Band (who previously performed on the Tiki Hut Stage). His song “Mary” was nominated for an Independent Music Award for Best Alt-Folk song of the Year. His album “Last Goodbye” made the CMJ Top 40 and his music has been featured on 9-1-1 on Fox, American Pickers, Say Yes to the Dress, NHL Broadcasts, Comedy Bang! Bang! etc.
From the heart of Waukesha, Emilie Grunfelder crafts acoustic performances that are as real as they are moving. With every strum of her guitar and every sincere lyric, she invites her audience to pause, listen, and feel—a testament to her genuine love for music and honest storytelling. With her no-frills guitar and a voice that’s equal parts soul and sass, she turns every performance into a laid-back, feel-good session that proves music really is the best kind of magic.
Pasta Sauce is a married, Midwest emo, duo performing a blend of original songs and covers to make people dance and/or get in their feels. Since we are only 2 individuals, we’ve mostly played acoustic sets, but have also found friends that can fill in for a full band show. With our loyal fan base, we usually draw about 25 people to each of our gigs. Our song ‘Inheritance’ from our latest EP has been playing almost daily on 88.9FM since its release. A gig at summerfest would help us get more exposure by reaching a wider audience of the passerby’s along the lake path which the stage is located.
Hi/Jack is a Milwaukee-based band that’s been making waves for a decade with its unique blend of raw, gritty blues and rock. Their sound is unapologetically real—combining soulful vocals, infectious grooves, and lyrics that hit hard, whether you’re at a dive bar or a packed festival. With a loyal following and an ever-evolving musical style, Hi/Jack stays true to their roots while pushing creative boundaries. Their latest projects hint at a bold new chapter, ensuring that every note resonates with the passion and energy of Milwaukee’s vibrant music scene.
Milwaukee rock n’ roll. Taking inspiration from Mac Demarco, the Flaming Lips, Covet, Steve Gunn, and many more, I’ve been at it since 2019 in Milwaukee entertaining people with my signature sound and songwriting. With hopeful and vulnerable songs like Back Then, and family friendly songs like Cat in a Backpack, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the show.
Run and Punch is a Chicago ska-punk band with pop-punk energy, brass-driven hooks, and upbeat live shows. Their 2026 dates include the Tiki Hut Stage at Summerfest.
Bryan Butelefski is a WAMI-nominated musician from the Fox Valley who brings a full-band energy to the stage as a true one-man band. Blending new and classic covers with originals, Bryan layers guitar, foot drums, and a Boss OC-5 octave pedal to emulate bass lines—creating a rich sound all from a single performer. His original music is authentic and honest, drawing comparisons to artists like Wilco and The Violent Femmes. I perform original music and covers!
Holden Garcia is a young Illinois singer-songwriter whose acoustic-driven music blends indie rock and Americana. His writing focuses on melody, storytelling, and emotional connection.
Tiger Lily is a Milwaukee rock band with a grunge and alternative edge. Local coverage describes the band as part of a new wave of heavy, distorted, high-energy Milwaukee rock.
Playing original music in a folk rock vein with a splash of pop. We are genre hoppers. Life experiences, turned into art and song. Lyrics and music by Francesca We have released our first CD, “Songs we Allegedly Know”. Original songs with a lot of heart. It is our mission to continue to play our music as we believe in ourselves as performers. We enjoy what we do and hope you will too.
Bounding Main is a maritime-themed a cappella vocal group that sings richly harmonic versions of maritime songs. Their shows are filled with spirit, humor and harmony; their arrangements of traditional and contemporary nautical music bring the listener into the world of adventure and romance.
An original band whose music embodies a raw, unfiltered energy that channels the catharsis of hard-hitting rock and alternative sounds. Their tracks—available across major streaming platforms—deliver a powerful blend of searing riffs, dynamic rhythms, and emotionally charged vocals that resonate with listeners looking for a dose of authentic, therapeutic rock. Whether you’re discovering them for the first time or a long-time fan, Audio is Rehab’s music offers a bold, unvarnished journey through the highs and lows of life.
5 O’Clock Charlie is a Milwaukee ska-punk band. The group was most active from 1997 to 2000, later reunited, and remains tied to Milwaukee’s ska history.
Acoustic Solo Artist playing Indie Folk Rock and mainstream rock such as Noah Kahan, Caamp, Jason Mraz, John Paul White of Civil Wars, Counting Crows, Of Monsters and Men, Tom Petty, Train, John Mellencamp etc. Lead singer, Rhythm and Lead guitar for numerous rock bands, currently Twist of Fate frontman—playing Rhythm, Lead guitar and vocals.
Derek Sallmann is a dedicated musician who seamlessly blends traditional sound with modern innovation. With a solid background in live performance and digital composition, his work reflects technical precision and genuine creative exploration. Whether performing live or crafting new tracks, his music consistently delivers clarity, passion, and authenticity.
MCE–Madison Cello Ensemble–is proud to present our collection of wild and wonderful adult rockers, teachers and performers all, playing our collection of wild and wonderful street music for the good patrons of Summerest 2026! In doing so, we will promote the tenets of music education and music for everyone, at all stages of life. We will be loud. We will be badass. And we promise… no cellos will be harmed during our performance!
DBDJ is an amalgam of two bands who lost their leads, The Tritonics and Astral Sub-Astral, and is named after the initials of those two players in tribute. They are a multi-instrumental horn band from Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Julia Graves is a Milwaukee-based musician, singer-songwriter, and music educator. Her work blends performance and teaching, rooted in a deep belief in music as both craft and connection. Her songwriting explores desire, the loss and reclamation of voice, vulnerability as strength, fantasy as refuge, and power — particularly in womanhood. Shaped in part by lived experience and hard-earned self-awareness, her songs trace cycles of growth, repetition, and clarity. Her performances are laid back yet emotionally charged, holding space for both light and dark through intimate, reflective songs.
ValleyKil is a Midwest grunge band shaped by 90s rock and late night jam sessions. What seems like a hodge podge band, is a unique and refined sound from a 4 decade spread of music taste. They merge rash and catchy grit, with anthemic hooks, creating songs built for both swaying and head-banging. Known for their explosive, don’t-blink stage presence, ValleyKil’s live shows are a kinetic mix of emotion, energy, and raw power.
Tenley Sheldon is a young prodigy on the rise, seamlessly blending soulful acoustic pop covers with original compositions that echo both classic influences and fresh perspectives. A bottomless box of moxie, his engaging appearances at local Wisconsin events have showcased his versatility and raw authenticity. With a fearless approach to his craft, Tenley Sheldon proves that age is no barrier when it comes to making a powerful impact in music.
Meskales is a Madison ska band with trombones, trumpet, drums, lead singer and guitar. Their sound blends ska, punk, surf, and reggae with a strong horn section.
Venturer is a storytelling band from Milwaukee that features keytar, saxophone, vocal harmonies, and improvisation. They recently released a funk/prog/rock album called “Time Machine Pt. I” and played a packed release show at X-Ray Arcade, as well as toured in the regional Midwest to support it. This year they are continuing the momentum with more outdoor festivals and regional gigs. They have wanted to play the Tiki Hut for a couple years, as it would fit the band’s vibe of whimsy and vibrancy.
We are a female fronted modern rock cover band that plays material from 90-now. We bring a higher energy show that will entertain wide range of listeners
Out of Milwaukee’s post-industrial landscape, Fake Twin treats sound as both weapon and ritual. Rooted in the stripped-down nihilism of no wave and the mechanical grind of industrial, their music builds tension through repetition, abrasion, and a slow, deliberate seduction—pulling listeners into something as intimate as it is confrontational.
Drawing on feminist rage, occult symbolism, and a refusal to conform, Fake Twin creates a space where power shifts, truth is revealed and discomfort becomes a kind of invitation. What they conjure isn’t just noise— it’s a summoning.
With over 20 years on stage—both solo and with a band—I bring a raw, no-nonsense approach to classic rock covers spanning the 70’s to today. My performances strip away the pretension, delivering the pure, electrifying energy of rock ’n’ roll that true fans crave.
When I sing, people know it. A matrix of sound, emotion, and serenity weaves through the house: singer to audience, audience to singer, and all to one another. The external disappears and my voice becomes one with my heart. It is the sum and soul of who I am as a performer. Covers from Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell, Etta James, The American songbook, Dolly Parton, Neil Young, many more and an abundance of original compositions, I delight in sharing my interpretations of this music with others. It is what drives me on the stage.
Bourbon in the Basement is an all-female folk-rock band that puts an original spin on songs from CCR and Fleetwood Mac to PJ Harvey and Nirvana. They play a harmony-rich, versatile blend of classic rock, folk, bluegrass, alternative and old-school country, with a few originals peppered in.
The frontman for Chicago based OUTDrejas combines influences as varied as George Thorogood, Green Day, and Rise Against into a high energy sound that has helped him steal the show from headliners in Chicago and Milwaukee for the better part of the last decade. “Of course I want to be remembered for my originals but I really want to be remembered period and getting someone’s attention with a cool cover is a good way to get them to pay attention to my band.”
Bellends is a Milwaukee rock band known for hook-driven songs, driving rhythms, and a gritty mix of rock and roll, folk-punk, alt-country, and Americana.
Tyne Darling is a Milwaukee, WI-based musician. Sometimes, though, he lives in Brooklyn. He has some black-ink tattoos on both of his arms. His music works to conjure elements of both Raymond Carver and Greg Dulli. He’s toured throughout the U.S., Europe, and Canada, played festivals such as SXSW, Wakarusa, and CMJ, and supported the likes of Richard Buckner, Charlie Mars, Dale Watson, and The Bottlerockets. In February 2023, Tyne Darling will release a new single entitled Brooklyn. Tyne Darling publishes stories under the name Tommy Vollman. He really likes Kurt Vonnegut, Two Cow Garage, Tillie Olsen, Joan Didion, Greg Dulli, Willy Vlautin, and Albert Camus.
Conjurers of the Moon is a Milwaukee heavy metal band formed in 2023, known for intense performances and a sound that blends aggression with atmosphere. Backed by tight musicianship and a visually commanding stage presence, our band delivers a live show that is immersive, powerful, and built to leave a lasting impression. Proud to represent Milwaukee’s heavy music scene, we are eager for the opportunity to bring that energy and presence to the Tiki Hut & Summerfest.
The Smokie Links have rapidly emerged in just over a year, building a strong local following in the Great Lakes Bay Region with their dynamic blend of Country, Rock, and Soul. Formed from spontaneous jam sessions after working with REDBURN’s Chris Redburn, the group—led by Australian-born Dion Mason alongside saxophonist Scott Summers, drummer Stevie Lee Kinzer, and guitarist Steven ‘Pogo’ Pogoreski—has quickly carved out a niche with original tracks like “Redemption” and a setlist of nearly 60 songs. They’re not just about playing music; they aim to inspire and change lives, fueling their energetic shows with a mix of powerful originals and fresh covers, and are set to continue expanding their presence with regular gigs and upcoming single releases.
The group has been performing together for 10 years producing original compositions. Hailing from Colombia, Victor’s captivating voice and dynamic guitar playing bring the energy and heart of Latin music to life. A proud Mexican, Marco drives our rhythms with intense and electrifying beat that keep the crowd moving. We have two artists from the vibrant island of Puerto Rico. Thomas adds a layer of rhythm and flavor with his expert percussion, creating the perfect Latin groove while Josue lays down powerful, rhythmic bass lines that add depth and soul to every song. Their niche is being able to combine popular American music with a Latin & Caribbean feel to make a new, unique sound for all to enjoy.
TEN 19 is an original three-piece band hailing form southeast Wisconsin that plays sobering rock with grunge, punk, and post-grunge influences. TEN 19 is a relatively new band starting to make some noise in the MKE local scene
hat happens when you combine two veteran Wisconsin musicians, a passion for music and a touch of comedic flair? You get K.T. Johnson! K.T. Johnson is Kat and Tyler Johnson. They have been active in the Wisconsin music scene for decades and have a passion for entertaining. Having been part of well known groups such as Pink Houses, ODNT, Karma Kat, Never Odd Or Even, Circus, Rewind and Drivin’ Blind, Kat and Tyler bring a talent and professionalism to everything they do. Whether they are sharing a stage at Summerfest or playing a stripped down show at a local winery, they aim to please! That said, they like to have fun, and it shows in what they do and how they perform. Expect the unexpected. Their setlist is a mix of 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and current Top 40 acoustic favorites mixed with a little comedy to keep people entertained and having a great time. Join us to listen, sing along and have a few laughs. Seriously professional musicians who don’t take themselves too seriously.
Named after the protagonists in the 1979 film “Breaking Away”, Cutters is a high energy hard rock trio based in West Allis, WI. Our sound has been described as “West Allis Bar Metal” with an underdog spirit.
A down-to-earth acoustic artist who just loves playing music, she isn’t your typical acoustic act—she’s the kind of musician who’ll have you laughing one minute and singing along the next. With a setlist that ranges from Johnny Cash to modern pop, she effortlessly blends soulful storytelling with a quirky twist. Whether on a cozy bar stage or a bustling festival, Lindsay’s down-to-earth charm and spirited covers prove that great music doesn’t have to take itself too seriously.
A Milwaukee artist who refuses to play by the rules, his music cuts through the fluff with raw uncompromising soundscapes and brutally honest lyricism that expose life’s gritty realities. Unafraid to mix genres and defy expectations, he crafts tracks that are as daring as they are deep, challenging listeners to confront their own truths without any sugar-coating. Whether he’s laying down hard-hitting beats or delivering introspective verses, Jon Henry’s work stands as a bold statement against the sanitized norms of mainstream music.
Que So What is an alternative, hard rock band from Milwaukee, WI. We deliver high-energy originals with powerful grooves, heavy basslines, incendiary guitar riffs & infectious melodies.
Los Mitoteros are a Milwaukee-based Latin ensemble performing Mexican regional repertoire and Latin jazz standards rooted in Afro-Caribbean traditions. Their sound includes cumbia, salsa, merengue, boleros, bossa nova, and a dynamic horn section.
Seconds To Serenity is a Chicago-based hard rock/alternative metal band blending crushing heaviness, brooding atmosphere, and deeply introspective lyricism. Exploring themes of grief, isolation, and resilience, their sound balances aggression with catharsis. Their latest album, Nexus (2025), along with the singles “Bloom,” “The Void,” “Without You,” and “Dark Skies” showcases a darker, heavier, and more focused evolution of the band. For fans of: Breaking Benjamin, Starset, Motionless In White, I Prevail, Alter Bridge, Sevendust, and Three Days Grace.
Lizzy and Casey are a Wisconsin-based duo with tantalizing vocals and boisterous guitar, playing all the greatest hits to make you snap your fingers and sing along.
“Bring your dancing shoes” is a phrase fans often hear when The Brianna Rae Band hits the stage. From crowd-immersive singalongs like What’s Up, Zombie, and Creep to all-out dance jams like Walkin’ on Sunshine, I’m a Believer, and 1985, the band delivers a high-energy mix of familiar, feel-good favorites. While their main catalog pays tribute to the best of the ’90s and 2000s, it’s not unusual to hear hits from other decades and genres, keeping every performance fresh and unpredictable. For over six years, they’ve continually expanded their setlist with songs chosen to keep audiences engaged, singing, and dancing. Each member brings their own unique persona to the stage, creating an infectious energy that draws people in from the first note to the final encore. The Brianna Rae Band has had the privilege of performing at major events including Summerfest in Milwaukee, closing the show after Foreigner at the Northern Wisconsin State Fair, The Minnesota State Fair (acoustic), and opening for Chris Kroeze. Over the years, they’ve also shared the stage with national acts like Sara Evans and Ashley Cooke, and performed at renowned festivals such as Ashley for the Arts and Riverfest La Crosse.
90s Jake is a high-energy, one-man rock show that will transport you back to the glory days of grunge and alternative rock. Singer/guitarist Jake Shimon puts his enduring passion for the songs he grew up loving on full display, masterfully recreating the sounds and spirit of one of rock music’s most disruptive and memorable decades. With just the right mix of emotion, attitude, and distortion, 90s Jake has quickly become one of Milwaukee’s most exciting rock tributes.
DJ Tab3r is a relentless tech house dynamo tearing up the underground scenes in Milwaukee and Chicago. As the founder of House Circuit, he brings together killer beats and a chill yet energetic vibe, creating underground events that are as real as they get. Get ready to ditch the fluff and dive into pure, rebellious rhythm.
When the city’s heartbeat syncs with the rhythm of the night, DJ Jailbreak takes control. His uncompromising mix of hard-hitting house tracks and raw R&B dance vibes cuts through the urban noise like a razor-sharp edge, turning every set into a gritty, unforgettable declaration of independence.
Writer Izzi Scheyd once wrote, “I expect that The Racing Pulses will start showing up in all kinds of places, as there’s something undeniably appealing about their sound.” And how prescient Scheyd’s statement was, as the melodic guitars, poetic lyrics, and energizing rhythms of The Racing Pulses have been praised by fans across the world. Whether reverberating around medieval marvel Elenska Basilica or United States festival stages, at Olbrich Botanical Gardens, or Breese Stevens Field, the Wisconsin-based, Billboard-charting act has developed a habit of rocking out to large crowds and delivering exciting performances. Why? The music of The Racing Pulses is the sound of vitality.
Bachelor’s Grove is a Chicago alt-goth metal band that began in 2018 and takes inspiration from the haunted cemetery of the same name. Their music focuses on dark atmosphere, heavy storytelling, and emotional themes.
JamIsOn ft. Bowk Shreds features Jamison ‘The Jam-is-on’ Fernandez, a Wisconsin multi-instrumentalist known for joyful energy, soulful rock, blues, indie, folk, and pop. This set also features Bowk Shreds on guitar.
DJ Tab3r is a relentless tech house dynamo tearing up the underground scenes in Milwaukee and Chicago. As the founder of House Circuit, he brings together killer beats and a chill yet energetic vibe, creating underground events that are as real as they get. Get ready to ditch the fluff and dive into pure, rebellious rhythm.
Open format/latin DJ. I do Latin sets as well as house & Latin house. I performed a set there last year and performed with another artist there as well.
Freddy B It Ain’t Me has been on a relentless journey of humble hustle since he first discovered his rhythm at age six—banging on a can of GOYA crackers with a pair of #2 pencils in his mom’s kitchen. Moving to New York City at eight opened his eyes to a vibrant world of music, fashion, and sports, fueling a passion that later led him to perform at major venues like Summerfest, the Coca-Cola stage, Harley Davidson stage, and the Amphitheater. With a sound that spans multilingual hip-hop to reggae, and collaborations with bands like King Solomon across Wisconsin, Freddy B not only uplifts spirits and gets bodies moving through his electrifying performances but also inspires fans to always stay humble and never stop the hustle.
DJ Lektro is a Milwaukee-based EDM, video game, chiptune, and dubstep DJ whose crazy 3D-printed masks and stage antics bring high energy for dance parties you will not forget.
