Join us on Wednesday, October 28 from 7-9pm for an evening event with Tastings, Raffles, and Prizes! We will be hosting two different tastings of our new Barrel Aged Baltic Porters in partnership with Journeyman Distillery and Judson & Moore Distillery. Come hangout, drink, and have a good time! Reserve your ticket now!
The Texpats are a Nashville-based trio featuring Grace Pettis (Austin), Natalie Price (Fort Worth), and Rachel Laven (San Antonio) – three acclaimed singer-songwriters who each built their careers in Texas before finding themselves under the same roof in Nashville. Blending three-part vocals, masterful storytelling, and a shared lineage in the Texas songwriting tradition, The Texpats bring the spirit of back porch song swaps to the stage. Individually seasoned artists with years of touring and recording under their belts, they now join forces to perform each other’s songs alongside a few handpicked covers, offering audiences an intimate, powerful experience rooted in friendship, resilience, and the enduring pull of home.
Emmet Love is an artist, writer, and producer based in Nashville. He released nis debut single “Secrets” in August, entering a new chapter as a solo artist after his time as frontman of pop-rock band The Mild West. He has written for other artists including Mel Senese, Stew Arp, and ANTi in addition to having songs featured in tv, film, and advertising including Tell Me Lies on Hulu and Liberty For All Training Co.
Aaron Spiro is a Chicago-based singer-songwriter with a passion for blending folk, indie rock, and funk. You may find his music upbeat and feel-good. But the lyrics behind his songs portray depth-filled stories of love, loss, and the chronic nature of human existence. Don’t worry, it’s still a fun time. Keep tabs on his Spotify for his fourth EP coming out this January.
Phil Angotti and Tony Richards both seasoned Chicago musicians have been collaborating for 15 years. They are a unique duo in that they pair Phil’s incredible and very well-known vocal talent and pop sensibility, with Tony’s unique and distinctive jazz guitar playing. This show will be especially curated to feature some great classic tunes and deep cuts.
Dan Shukis is a Rogers Park-based guitarist influenced by rock, folk, country, and bluegrass. He began performing solo in Chicago in the 2010’s and founded the acclaimed band “Moonstone Quill” in 2020 in Breckenridge, CO. After playing full-time for six years in the Colorado music scene, Dan relocated to Chicago in 2026 and is playing solo material and covers with looping, vocals, and harmonica.
Phrygian, originally hailing from the hot desert of Pheonix, Arizona, now haunts the streets of Chicago with his own style of acoustic grunge and folk. He dabbles in various instrumentation and fields in audio, and looks to bring his unique melancholy to the Uncommon Ground Halloween show.
Ashlynn Rose is force to be reckoned with on the Chicago songwriters’ scene. Hailing from the rural small town of Raymore, Missouri, to rocking with her college punk band in Ithaca, New York, Rose’s diverse background in musical genres and authentic, raw storytelling within her songs offers a refreshing light within the Chicago music sphere.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
A modern folksinger whose music nods to the genre’s 1970’s glory days, Amy Speace is considered one of the great contemporary singer-songwriters. Heralded by Rolling Stone, The New York Times, Billboard Magazine and NPR’s “Weekend Edition,” Amy Speace was discovered by Judy Collins, who signed her to her record label and has recorded her song, “Weight of the World.” Amy’s latest 3 releases all debuted at #1 on the Folk DJ Charts. “What Amy Speace says – what she sings – she says with a confluence of poetry and honesty, of emotional specificity” – Jon Pareles, The New York Times.
Born and raised in Massachusetts and now based in SW Michigan, Jon Hayes is building a name playing shows, concert series, and festivals across the Midwest and Northeast. His songwriting, guitar style and vocal approach are heavily influenced by artists from the 2000s and listeners often rave about his relaxing, yet skillful, performances. Fans of John Mayer, NEEDTOBREATHE and Bon Iver won't want to miss his show.
Based out of Pontiac Illinois, singer/songwriter, Aaron Newsome has a nack for storytelling and writing his truth in song. With a vocal as unique as Stapleton and a soulful spirit not typically found in Midwest USA. With two nominations for the 2026 Josie Music Awards and two nominations for the 2026 MidwestCMO awards, Aaron Newsome is surely making strides toward becoming one of the nations top names.
Lily DeTaeye is a Des Moines, IA native with a foundation in alt rock, pop, and folk. Her third studio album EVEN WITH MY EYES CLOSED is a nostalgic and biting entry into the world of dreamy pop. Think Lilith Fair etherealism meets barbed hooks that stick right in the jaw. DeTaeye is based in Brooklyn, NY.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Shadan Red is a Chicago-based folk singer/songwriter whose music explores the unnamed and uncomfortable emotions we all experience. She began producing her own music in 2023 and is inspired by musicians like Phoebe Bridgers, Sarah Kinsley, and Jeff Buckley, to name a few. Her EP titled “between you and i,” which will be released on all streaming platforms November 13th, is her at her most vulnerable, tackling topics such as relationship anxiety, the process of moving on, and wishing things could stay the same.
Aliejha is a 22-year-old Chicago-based singer-songwriter whose wistful acoustic folk sound merges elements of country and ambient textures. Accompanied by stripped-back production and forefront vocals, Aliejha’s songwriting captures the quiet beauty of sheer vulnerability.
Geddy Trezak is a young midwestern musician who expresses his thoughts, personality, and growth through his writing in a way that excites and connects with the world around him. Ever since he was 14, he has been writing, recording, and performing. In early 2025, he released his first album, a collection of Beatle-inspired melodies paired with minimalistic production and maximalist arrangement he calls Demolition, and has been winning over audiences across the Chicagoland area ever since.
This fall, Constellation Ensemble returns to Uncommon Ground with Divas!, a celebration of the extraordinary women who have shaped popular music across generations. From powerhouse vocalists and glamorous icons to boundary-pushing artists and beloved pop stars, we’ll explore the songs that have given us permission to be bold, vulnerable, joyful, dramatic, and unapologetically ourselves. Because the best divas don’t just command the spotlight, they invite us into it. Their music gives us something to aspire to, something to laugh about, something to sing at the top of our lungs, and often, something that reminds us we’re not alone
Abigayle Oakley From Las Vegas to Nashvegas, Abigayle Oakley blends the melodic richness of folk pioneers with the lyrical honesty of today’s confessional singersongwriters. Her songs explore the complexities of life and the existential questions that shape us, often with a sharp, tongue-in-cheek wit that adds layers of humor and insight.
Fairhazel is the moniker of musician Hugh Macdonald. Hugh grew up in South Africa, France and the UK, and currently resides between Nashville and London. Hugh produces, mixes and masters all of his own music from his home studio.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Please join us for the 29th Annual Jeff Buckley Tribute Concerts!
On a snowy night in February of 1994, Jeff Buckley played a legendary set at Uncommon Ground. This performance was lauded “best concert of the year” by Greg Kot of the Chicago Tribune, and was recently recalled by Mr. Kot as one of the best concerts he’s ever attended.
This year we will host our 29th annual Jeff Buckley Tribute Concerts. The two day event is held each November in honor of Jeff's birthday and features a wide variety of musicians coming together to celebrate Jeff's life, his legacy and his music. Proceeds from these events are donated to a charity named by the estate of Jeff Buckley. By being a part of this event, you are supporting the next generation of artists.
2 nights
Monday, November 16 & Tuesday, November 17 (Jeff's birthday)
$65 per person includes the show, a 3 course dinner, & a donation to a charity named by the estate of Jeff Buckley.
Drinks & Gratuity not included. (guests pay final tab night of performance)
Dinner Seating at 6pm, show at 7pm sharp.
On a snowy night in February of 1994, Jeff Buckley played a legendary set at Uncommon Ground. This performance was lauded “best concert of the year” by Greg Kot of the Chicago Tribune, and was recently recalled by Mr. Kot as one of the best concerts he’s ever attended.
This year we will host our 29th annual Jeff Buckley Tribute Concerts. The two day event is held each November in honor of Jeff's birthday and features a wide variety of musicians coming together to celebrate Jeff's life, his legacy and his music. Proceeds from these events are donated to a charity named by the estate of Jeff Buckley. By being a part of this event, you are supporting the next generation of artists.
2 nights
Monday, November 16 & Tuesday, November 17 (Jeff's birthday)
$65 per person includes the show, a 3 course dinner, & a donation to a charity named by the estate of Jeff Buckley.
Drinks & Gratuity not included. (guests pay final tab night of performance)
Dinner Seating at 6pm, show at 7pm sharp.
Fox Island brings an intense groove-oriented sound that blends modern jazz, fusion, neo-soul, and hip-hop drawing inspiration from artists such as Moses Yoofee Trio, Yussef Dayes, and Herbie Hancock.
Varsity Dropout is a Chicago-based indie folk project using music as a therapeutic lens to explore memory and connection. Rooted in raw, unvarnished songwriting, the sound bridges the warm, expansive folk of Mumford & Sons and Bon Iver with the emotional weight and dynamic punch of Manchester Orchestra and The 1975. Every track is an invitation to process the heavy stuff together.
Alma Yeon: Alma Yeon creates kaleidoscopic songs on keyboard and electric ukulele. Her lyrical music explores growth, grief, and finding joy in unexpected places. An up-and-coming singer-songwriter in Chicago, Alma Yeon's moving performances have been called "playful and provocative" with the power to gather and heal. Alma Yeon searches deep and creates love songs, a forgiving mirror, and a call to action.
Martin Bandz: Martin Bandzoumouna (aka Martin Bandz) is a Chicago-based singer-songwriter and producer whose multi-genre sound draws from a upbringing in jazz and symphonic bands, classical funk and R&B, African icons like Koffi Olomide and Youssou N'Dour, and 2000s alt-rock.
Michael J. Taylor, more commonly known simply as ‘Taylor’, is a bi-racial human who has been teaching, performing, and recording West African percussion since 1994. He authored the book “Remembering Your Ancestral Fire” published May 2023. He is also the owner and driving force behind Holy Goat Percussion, he imports, sells and repairs West African drums, teaches, is a Tam Tam Mandingue Djembe Academy Senior Certified Instructor, is the director of the Tam Tam Mandingue Djembe Academy – Chicago, School of Percussion and is a Lead Facilitator with Sewa Beats USA. He created the shamanic ritual the DRUMeditation™, created from his early times drumming having out-of-body experiences and astral travels, then reshaped after readings and validation with Elder Dr Malidoma Patrice Somè. His main instruments are the djembe, dunun and Malinke flute (tambin), but he plays a wide assortment of other drums including bugaraboo, congas, frame drum, bongos, and doumbek.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Blake Zweig is a Chicago-based indie-folk singer-songwriter blending delicate guitar work and subtle harmonica with introspective, hopeful vocal melodies. Drawing inspiration from artists like Neil Young, Mike Kinsella (Owen, American Football), Elliott Smith, and Damien Jurado, his warm, mindful and heartfelt performances leave audiences feeling relaxed, uplifted, and thoughtfully connected.
Al Rose is a mesmerizing, challenging, insightful and ultimately delightful songwriter with a unique command of wordplay combined with considerable musical acumen that is captured on his 8 album releases. His albums have received critical praise along with extensive airplay on AAA and Americana stations throughout the US and Europe. The Chicago-based performer has played coast-to-coast and has toured in Europe and Japan. He captivates audiences whether he’s solo live or accompanied by any number of his band, The Transcendos, in any configuration. This drives the songs each night, but the songs have always been what drive the musicians.
As a craftsman, Al’s honed his songwriting to a fine edge. He’s got a real gift for melody, and each line cuts just the way he wants—whether to make you laugh or cry. He’s backed up the words with catchy, well-nigh addictive tunes. It’s a kind of protest music:he’s sounding the alarm against complacency. Singing us sweetly through the dark, reaching for the sky, scattering catchy hooks and joyful choruses behind him as he goes, Al has crafted a cathartic set of songs for our times. It may see us through times even darker than these.
Urban Twang is lead by the quixotic songwriting team of Lead Vocalist Trish Clausen and guitarist Max Twang who are joined by cellist Molly Rife, a native of Tucson, AZ, who is also a member of the 30-piece critically praised band Mucca Pazza.Urban Twang has a resumé that boasts opening for nationally touring acts, songs appearing in indie films, numerous performances for radio and television, and is still gathering new fans that enjoy their music.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Phillip-Michael was born in Michigan, forged in Chicago, and polished in Nashville, TN. He grew up with B.B. King calling him “nephew” and calls his music "Dive Bar Soul," a blend of Indie Rock songwriting with the grit and passion of the blues. He caught the attention of Ellen Degeneres who featured him on the final season of her show. He has toured nationally with Keb Mo, Caravan Palace, and Jerry Cantrell (Alice In Chains). His latest album “Good to Be Here” was recorded by Grammy nominated producer, Dan Knobler (Bahamas, Allison Russell, and Lake Street Dive). He has since returned to Chicago to fuse all of the skills he’s acquired over the years to create music that is uniquely his own.
The idea of Hi Score is simple. Dreamy vocals, a kaleidoscope of harmony, and deep-in-the-pocket grooves pulled off by a band all surfing the same wavelength. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy a night you won’t forget anytime soon.
The Uptones are one of the most venerable post-collegiate/adult a cappella groups in Chicago; we were founded as Uptown Sound in 2009 — before The Sing-Off, before Pitch Perfect, just as a cappella was exploding off of college campuses nationwide. A group of young professionals, with a mixture of singing experience (from college a cappella groups, to musical theatre, to choirs, to nothing at all), came together and decided to set out on an adventure in the world of contemporary pop a cappella.
We’ve gone from performing for 20-odd family and friends in a hole-in-the-wall coffee shop to regular audiences of over 120 at our biannual concerts, and from a repertoire of self-arranged music by none other than our talented members. In our more than a decade of singing together, over 70 people have joined us for at least a little while (anywhere from 12–16 at any one time). We sing because we enjoy performing, because we need a creative outlet… and we stay, because it’s fun. The makeup of the group continues to change, but the personality remains the same: music, friendship, and a little bit of humor. We hope you'll love listening to us as much as we love performing for you.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Wicked Drawl fuses country, classical and soulful folk with a theatrical edge. Based in Chicago, they craft a sound that's as rich in tradition as it is boundary-pushing. Led by composer Keith Kusterer, the group features the powerhouse vocals of Christina Pecce, the driving upright bass of Jeffrey Parker and the virtuosic piano & songwriting of Casey Cross.With dynamic harmonies, genre-defying original arrangements and a memorable live presence, Wicked Drawl delivers music that resonates deeply with all audiences.Their first full length album was released this Fall on vinyl.
This December, King Kazoo & The Reindeer Band roll into town with the full holiday spectacle: a live band, big theatrical energy, and a showman who treats the holiday season like the main event it actually is. Christmas in New Vaudeville is a mix of the classic holiday songbook, a heavy dose of original music, and the kind of warmth and showmanship that made vaudeville the beating heart of American entertainment in the first place — reimagined for a room that wants to laugh, sing along, and leave in a better mood than they walked in with.
The man behind King Kazoo is Jay Bragg, a Nashville-based, third-generation entertainer with roughly 5,000 live shows behind him and a family lineage in this business that goes back to his grandparents' vaudeville act in New York City and Massachusetts in the early 1930s. Jay performs under the banner "the Wizard of Whimsy" — a spirit he first found doing hospice volunteer work, where dying patients taught him that great performance was never about the performer, only about what the room gets to feel. New Vaudeville is his seasonal theatrical franchise, four shows a year built around reclaiming the different threads of who he actually is — and Christmas, for King Kazoo, isn't a costume. It's home.
Expect world class musicians, vintage entertainment, plenty of kazoo, a set built to make a room of strangers feel like family for two hours, and the kind of holiday show that's as much about hospitality as it is about music.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Alan Zreczny’s songs are narrative poems set to spirited melodies, which he performs on the guitar and piano, solo and with his band bluefront. Over the years Zreczny has created an imaginative and truly original body of work with lyrics that often put a new twist on age-old sayings giving them a fresh, surprising new meaning.
Melding the vintage sound of Television, The Modern Lovers and early Talking Heads with the current but equally timeless approach of The War On Drugs, the Chicago outfit celebrate the sound of classic guitar-driven rock.
bluefront is Alan Zreczny, Keith Herc and Scott Paeth.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Tim Hort & The Radio Hour celebrate its 25 Year Anniversary of playing Uncommon Ground this year. With several weeks on the Top 100 US College Chart in 2026, Tim’s live set is defined as “80s rock with a poetic twist.”
Freddy Harboe aka “Jimmy Jim,” from the Chicago Americana group, “No Hero,” performs in the tradition of acoustic roots music, exploring themes of reflection and redemption. Freddy plays an opening solo set at Uncommon Ground of sincere original songs reminiscent of early folk rock with a deeply personal bent.
Buffalo Rose is a singularly spectacular six-piece band from Pittsburgh, PA. Overflowing with the bold and unfettered joy of their inimitable blend of “Theatre Kid Americana,” a Buffalo Rose show is a celebration of creative wonder; a sparkling sonic delight. Their live show is where their energy fully shines, and songwriting is their lodestar. The band’s recorded catalog is full of vibrantly emotive and methodically arranged songs, sure to thrill the mind and charm the heart.
Rita Bliss is an Austin-based folk musician who captures moments, memories, and conversations in song. A Rust Belt native, her melodies are rooted in the old-time banjo sounds of Appalachia and sung with a vaguely upstate-New York accent. From the open landscapes of Texas to the bitter winters of the Northeast, Rita has collected truth, fiction, and many musical influences along the way.
The Sweet Maries are a contemporary, harmony forward, female fronted singer-songwriter acoustic indie-folk Americana group led by Amy Shoemaker and Susie Lofton. Our repertoire includes curated favorites from the 60's & 70's, highlighting artists like Dylan, Donovan, the Beatles as well as some gospel classics, a little jazz and of course our own original material that explores the American folk experience. Very acoustic, very much listening music, very heavenly altogether.
Fox and Bones
The only thing better than dating someone in your band is dating no one in your band. At least it sure sounds that way according to the recent output from Portland based Post-Yacht Rock outfit Fox and Bones, whose best work is coming directly following their split as a romantic duo.
Haley Johnsen
Haley Johnsen, a musical maverick from Portland, Oregon, is a genre bending artist with a career path that is uniquely her own. Influenced by iconic voices like Brandi Carlile and Bonnie Raitt, Haley's vocals soar with soul in the worlds of Alt Pop and Americana.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Frank Viele’s brand of New England blues rock tugs at the heartstrings, pulling the listener on a surprise journey that transcends genre. Yet even as he’s racked up accolades over the past 7 years — including New England Music Awards for Album of the Year, Male Performer of the Year, Songwriter of The Year (X2), and Live Act of The Year for gutsy, gritty tracks like “Broken Love Song” and “‘Til The Bourbon’s All Gone” — he’s rarely paused to savor the moment before moving on to yet another tour, album, or collaboration
With his keenly observant lyrics and blend of dynamic guitar and piano work, Chicago-based singer-songwriter Joe Gorka has made a name for himself in the Midwest music scene. He has played such well-loved Chicago rooms such as Schubas Tavern, City Winery, and Uncommon Ground, along with venues and festivals across the region. 2025 saw the release of his debut solo acoustic EP "Evergreen", as well as increasing national attention with his selection to the 2025 "Emerging Artist" showcase at Connecticut's Falcon Ridge Folk Festival.
Jonathan Hannau is a Chicago-based composer and pianist whose original work embraces the surreal, minimal, and abstract possibilities of music. Heartfelt and honest, he creates ambient environments, long expressive melodies, and intricate rhythms supported by live looping and improvisation. For this particular set he will be joined by his longtime collaborator and friend Richard Brasseale on saxophone.
Fueled by mutual admiration and creative desperation, Momo (hornist) and Alvin (jazz guitarist) first engaged the challenges of cross-genre collaboration in 2020. The Chicago-based duo has released several records of co-composed originals and arrangements prioritizing loyalty to personal taste and individuality over genre. Their pieces are constructed as sequences of shapes, events, and dialogues, built on structured spontaneity.
Skye Peterson is a singer-songwriter from Nashville, TN who loves Jesus and daffodils. As much as she likes answers, her music is a journal entry full of questions, stories, and doubts. Even as she wrestles and wonders, she feels an urge to sing about spring in December, light on darker days, and love during lonely weeks. She released her first album Where The Winter Was in 2023 after studying theology in England and Kentucky.
Thomas Austin is a theo-folk singer and writer who really doesn't like writing about himself in the third person, but here he is, doing it anyway. He has released two EPs, Indiana and Evergreen, and one full-length album, Eternal Life, which you can find anywhere music is streamed, sold, or held ransom. He also writes stories and essays which he sends to his email list.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Sarah Potenza is a critically acclaimed singer and songwriter with deep roots in Nashville and a nationwide fanbase. She gained national attention on The Voice, earning a coveted four-chair turn, and later appeared on America's Got Talent, where she received a standing ovation from all the judges. Her sophomore album, Road to Rome, reached No. 1 on the iTunes Blues charts and received rave reviews from major outlets including Rolling Stone, Billboard, American Songwriter, and NPR. Potenza was also named one of the top three acts at SXSW by Rolling Stone.
She is currently creating new music with Grammy-winning producer Dave Audé.
Laura Glyda is a veteran storyteller and songwriter, illuminating familiar struggles of the heart and soul through song. Her unique and rich guitar playing blends elements of folk, rock, and Americana, and beautifully complements her powerful and personal lyrics. The Chicago native can vocally move from a yell to a yearning in a moment, pulling listeners in with the dynamics of a truly seasoned singer. Her latest album, "This Heart Is a Machine," listens like an intimate memoir, detailing the end of a marriage while affirming the power and beauty one can find in a new and glistening solitude.
Hailing from Virginia, Kelly Neff brings a uniqueness to the stage with a commanding presence and engaging performances. Her original music is heartfelt and covers a wide spectrum of blues, folk, funk, and rock, added to creative arrangements of cover songs to deliver a memorable show in any setting.
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
Glistener is a Chicago-based ensemble that focuses on performing a diverse range of popular and classical-adjacent repertoire. Their performances consistently feature guest musicians, including vocalists and instrumentalists.
No two shows are the same with local artist Zakhoury. Starting out his musical career as a pianist, he later found his sound when he decided to learn guitar at the age of 20. His eclectic style offers a unique experience to listeners of all backgrounds.
Nat Lefkoff is a Northern California–based singer-songwriter whose music blends folk, rock, and Americana with deeply personal storytelling. Known for his raw, emotive vocals and honest lyricism, Lefkoff crafts songs that explore love, growth, resilience, and the shared human experience. With multiple releases and a reputation for intimate yet energetic live performances, he has built a loyal and growing fanbase across the country. On tour, Nat Lefkoff delivers heartfelt, engaging shows that connect audiences through authenticity, strong musicianship, and memorable songwriting.
Lynn Live Vocals is a pop chill act that sings pop covers from current day to 80’s/90’s and plays some originals too. Lynn curates her playlist very carefully and cannot wait to share it with you! Covering artist like Cyndi Lauper, Taylor Swift, The Beatles, Joy Williams, Sheryl Crow, Tears for Fears and Peter Gabriel. With some killer harmonies too!Come check us out. We are loads of fun!
Step into a world of electrifying talent and vibrant performances at Uncommon Ground's Open Mic Grand Finale Competition! Join us for an unforgettable night of music as we celebrate the rising stars of the arts community. Finalists chosen from the Semi-Finals will compete for top three prizes!
Seating starts at 4:30pm. We will begin promptly at 5pm.
Free Admission
Please join us for an early evening journey with a couple of great song writers and performers. Robert Willians, originally from Oklahoma, artfully blends American influences like Woody Guthrie and Levon Helm with European influences from the cabaret and elsewhere. He’ll be accompanied by his band The Chain Links - Chuck Wasserburg (guitar), Jay Whitehouse (bass), and Sarah Allen (percussion).
Also performing will be singer-songwriter Al Day, a major presence on the Chicago music scene. Al has performed on WTTW and WFMT and plays with one of the city’s most unique and exciting jazz ensembles, The Last Word. He’ll be accompanied by the “master of mystery guitar,” Victor Sanders, who has played with a who’s who of singer-songwriters and helms Lakeside Media, one of Chicago’s legendary studios.
Steve Kessler AKA Saturday June has been a fixture of the Chicago music scene for several decades.His early career featured working with such luminaries as the legendary Hound Dog Taylor and Steve Goodman. Steve and sis namesake band Saturday June have since gone on to share bills with the Beach Boys, Smithereens, Outlaws,English Beat and many others. Opened at Ravinia for Johnny Rivers and Jimmy Webb. He has 3 all original albums on Apple Music and Spotify.
Jacob McLeod became obsessed with music, specifically indie folk/rock, during the lockdown of 2020. With time on his hands, he discovered his passion for performing and creating his own songs, inspired by the likes of Bob Dylan and Hozier. Now 21, he’s made a name for himself as one of the premier upcoming songwriters and performers in the state of Michigan. After years of extensive touring, writing, and recording, he is now on the cusp of his sophomore album, MICHIGAN-20.
Allie Kessel is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Chicago. Allie possesses a unique musical style pulling influence from folk, soul, and classic pop music. Whether listening to her live or on a recording, Allie captures you with her soothing melodies and heartfelt words. You always feel like you belong when she is in the room, and her songs do exactly the same. Allie is a lifelong musician, spending many years honing her craft and is excited to continue to pursue her decade long career as a professional musician. Check out her debut album Heart Matter, out on all platforms now!
Queen Drie is a multidisciplinary fusion artist blending Contemporary Rap, R&B, and African rhythms to explore authenticity and what it means to live freely. The unorthodox nature of Drie’s artistry is what makes her daring and a critical voice in the current cultural landscape.
Her debut EP, I Hope This Helps, offers a nuanced portrait of her twenties—where questions of selfhood, boundaries, and intimacy unfold in real time. Each track is both a personal reflection and a quiet offering to anyone navigating growth, uncertainty, and the practice of living with honesty and intention.
Rooted in poetic lyricism and a genre-fluid sound, Drie creates music that feels like a mirror: tender, thoughtful, and courageously clear. Her work invites listeners into the ongoing process of becoming—on your own terms.
Performers for this event must have previously won a weekly open mic. Regular weekly open mics will resume October 4th.
Step into a world of electrifying talent and vibrant performances at Uncommon Ground's Open Mic Semi-Final Competition! Join us for an unforgettable night of music as we celebrate the rising stars of the arts community.
The Semi-Finals include all of the individual winners from each week of this season. Performers each get one song. The song must be an original written by the performer in order to advance to the Finals.
Seating starts at 4:30pm. We will begin promptly at 5pm.
Free Admission
Headlining the night is Wildered, the Milwaukee-based indie-folk collective known for their atmospheric sound, rich arrangements, heartfelt songwriting, and dynamic live performances. Also performing is Matty Timmons, a rising Milwaukee songwriter whose honest lyrics, warm vocals, and captivating melodies have made him a standout voice in the local music scene.
Opening the evening is Annabelle Cuitino in her debut live performance. Hailing from Chicago, Annabelle is a gifted singer-songwriter with a remarkable voice and a bright future ahead. Don't miss the chance to experience a promising new artist at the very beginning of her musical journey.
A night of storytelling, connection, and unforgettable songs awaits.
SONS OF THE NEVER WRONG is a turbo-charged Altfolk trio from Chicago that delivers witty, whimsical songs with their signature soaring vocal harmonies and gorgeous arrangements. In case you are wondering, they’re two gals and a fella: Bruce Roper, Sue Demel, & Deborah Lader. Their odd ball humor and spontaneous stories ignite their live shows and have earned them a cult-like international following for over 30 years. Combining influences of folk, jazz, pop, and rock, their sound is wildly original, their energy is contagious and their banter is hilarious. However, no bio can outdo what others have to say about the Sons…“One song and you’re a fan for life.” Hemmens Theater/Millennium Park
Bill Brickey hosts fellow singer songwriters Joe Gorka and Jules Klee as they share their songs round robin style. Brickey on “Bodies of Work”, Gorka on “Creativity and Criticism”, and Klee on her "Slow Tour".
Join us for our Shure sponsored Open Mic! For over 25 years, we have hosted Chicago’s up and coming musicians at our Shure Sponsored open mic that was recently voted “Chicago’s best open mic” by the Chicago reader. Ours is a competition where the winners of each week are entered into the semi-finals, and the winners from the semis are entered into the finale. Prizes from the finale have been many things of value to musicians in the past such as Shure microphones, studio time, and cash prizes. If you think you have what it takes to be our next open mic winner, come on down and give it a shot!
CLR is a mixture of seasoned stage and studio musicians. Three of the group's members hail from the Chicago famed group Nicholas Tremulis. Roger Reupert on trumpet and flugelhorn, Singer/songwriter Shay Jones on vocals and headdress, Keith Robbins on drums and percussion. Each of these three players (Reupert, Jones, and Robbins) have a plethora of stage and recording experience in their own right. This includes numerous albums with bands too numerous to mention here.
Co-Stanza is a pop music project by Jack Costanza with its roots in good vibes and midwest charm. Throughout the last few years, Co-Stanza has released several acoustic EPs as well, showcasing his lyrical and emotional depth. Jack has never chosen to stick with one sound and continues to explore sonically.
To date, Co-Stanza has played with artists like The Moss, The Backseat Lovers, Peach Pit, Conan Gray, Beach Bunny, and amassed more than 5 Million streams on his viral hit, “I Don’t Mind”.
After returning to Chicago, Co-Stanza is currently performing his acoustic music around the city, keeping shows intimate and peaceful while reconnecting to the scene and the wonderful people that make our city so special
We are a band originating from the Northside of Chicago. The three of us met at Loyola Academy and we have been writing and performing since 2015. We write all original music as well as actively performing cover song shows. We have performed at venues ranging from the House of Blues to the Underground Lounge in Wrigley.
