Lucy Holden is a singer/songwriter from Chicago. She travels around the country full-time, drawing lyrical inspiration from alpine hikes, canyon camping, and desert flowers. Her musical style is heavily influenced by her background of folk music, having grown up playing Irish tunes, attending Bluegrass festivals, and obsessing over Québécois foot-tapping fiddlers. She brings a multi-instrumental perspective to her music, often switching between guitar, mandolin, and violin during each performance.

Rosa’s bio, according to a drunk fan: “Radiant! She smiles when she sings and writes real lyrics!” She’s performed at many classic Chicago venues and events including Market Days, Martyrs, California Clipper, Uncommon Ground, Bookclub, and the MCA. Hear her “real lyrics” on the EP’s Not Your Good Girl and Lipstick (available on all streaming platforms)

Rachael Davis recordings are few and far between, having dedicated more time to both the art of performance and the art of raising her frankly delightful children, but a few have escaped: Minor League Deities (2000), Live In Bremen, Germany (2004), Antebellum Queens (2008), Bandbox Jubilee (2014), plus releases with Shout Sister Shout! and The Sweet Water Warblers. And, great news, more recordings are coming very soon!  A new compilation called A Few Good Ones, available exclusively at tour dates for now, contains two unreleased songs from about a decade ago that were recently unearthed, and brand new sessions are under way for a (fingers crossed) 2024 release.  The world needs more Rachael Davis music, and Rachael Davis needs more of the world to put down their sorrows and raise a communal voice in celebration of the hilarious beauty of life.  You know how something embarrassing or awful happens, and we say, oh we'll laugh about it later?  Rachael knows life is short:  laugh now.

Robin Bienemann is a singer & songwriter from Chicago. His wickedly funny and poignant original songs mix contemporary themes with old musical styles. He combines dry humor and sophisticated songwriting with a deep sense of history. At his musical core is a reverence for the guitar as an instrument to accompany songs and as a vessel to express the American psyche in all its strange beauty and complexity.Robin revels in the delicious history of Chicago music. He combines Blues, Jazz, Country and Latin music with fingerstyle guitar to create a playground for his lyrical musings on science, animals and the whole scope of human experience. His songs are poetic, comical and educational. A flow of images ranging from vampires, insects, dinosaurs, dodo birds, work and romance.Robin has shared the stage with Dan Hicks, Christine Lavin, Susan Werner, Junior Brown andSouthern Culture on the Skids. He performs regularly solo, with his trio, and as a duo with his wife Jenny Bienemann. With his duo Twang Bang he toured the U.S. and Japan.

When Mississippi John Hurt and the Reverend Gary Davis were sitting alone in their rooms in the 1920s figuring out how to make their guitars sing like pianos, no one could have anticipated that their efforts, emerging from a haze of poverty, would influence generations of guitarists thereafter. Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones and The Grateful Dead are some of the current-day legends who discovered the blues genre of these pioneers and adapted it to their own covers. Another contemporary who as a kid also recognized the genius in the blues fingerpicking of Hurt and Davis was Chicagoan Eric Lugosch, who likewise sat alone in his formative years in his room figuring out the puzzles of how it was all done. Lugosch, though, unlike the Stones and Dead, was intent on successfully duplicating the virtuosity and difficulty of the art of solo guitar. Fast forward several years later, and already a resident of the blues capital of the world in Chicago, Eric Lugosch found his place of residence to be fortuitous in helping him to claim his own bit of legend as a guitar instructor at the renowned Old Town School of Folk.

Sign up at 4:00pm | open mic starts at 5:00pm

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!

Josh Caterer is best known as the lead singer of legendary punk band Smoking Popes. As a solo artist, he refuses to be boxed in, running the gamut from blues and gospel to power-pop. In 2021, Caterer teamed up with Chicago indie label Pravda Records to release a pair of lockdown-inspired solo albums, “The Hideout Sessions” and “The SPACE Sessions” which were hailed by fans and critics alike. The Chicago Reader said, “One of the distinctive characteristics of Caterer’s sound has always been the contrast between his choirboy vocals and the crunch of his band, and the allure of that approach has never been stronger.” 

SIKORA is a musical duo that performs popular jazz, blues, and folk standards. What makes us unique? Simply put: Big sound in a little package.

Kate Sikora (vocals) comes from an opera background and has a BIG voice, while multi-instrumentalist Brian Evans creates arrangements of all your favorite classics on both the piano and acoustic guitar, often with an aim to make a single guitar play the role of a full band with rhythm, percussion, and melody, all simultaneously!

Specializing in timeless classics by artists like Etta James, Sinatra, Nina Simon, Amy Winehouse, Sam Cook, Elvis, & The Beatles, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Celebrate 35 years of Uncommon Ground with Bird x Butterfly and Brian McSweeney!

Bird x Butterfly is a Korean-American musical duo based in Chicago. Frances Kang and Paul Kim write and perform together with a rare intimacy: two voices that don't harmonize so much as merge, becoming something neither could make alone. Shaped by years of performing together, Bird x Butterfly have developed a sound that is both cinematic and deeply personal. Their arrangements are orchestrated and expansive — strings, harp, brass, layered synths — yet the emotional center is always the two of them, close and unguarded. Their music sounds like a photograph you can't quite place — familiar and unresolved all at once.

giverupper is the solo project of J.T. Teichert. The music represents an attempt to “give up” the masks that we wear every day. giverupper blends formally trained saxophone sounds and informal, casual guitar textures. Songwriting and style draws upon many influences, with a focus on indie rock, alternative, piano pop, and jazz. it is J.T.’s ultimate goal to “give” music and lift others “up.” giverupper’s debut EP, shorty, released on 12/20/25. 

"How can you feel nostalgic for a song you’ve never heard before? That’s how it feels when listening to ‘i like you’. The track is a fresh release." - The Limelight Chicago

“The debut of alt/indie newcomer, giverupper impresses. J.T. Teichert has exhibited a talent for songwriting and composition. The appeal is catchy melodies, simple yet vibrant progressions, and a knack for being able to produce music with familiarity to what is currently relevant while introducing a unique element.” - Fifteen Minutes of Fame

Sign up at 4:00pm | open mic starts at 5:00pm

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!

This is an official Uncommon Ground 35th Anniversary show featuring Rachael Sage!

RACHAEL SAGE (accompanied by Trina Hamlin on Harmonica (Susan Werner)) is a singer-songwriter, poet and multi-instrumentalist who has released over 20 self-produced albums and EP's. Sharing stages with Sarah McLachlan, Rufus Wainwright, Shawn Colvin, Ani DiFranco and Judy Collins (with whom she recorded an acclaimed duet), Sage’s career has been defined by vibrant storytelling, innovative creativity and social activism. Her new album Under My Canopy is due in Fall 2026 on MPress/Virgin, but will be exclusively available at her live shows beginning this Summer.

Rachel Drew is a singer-songwriter from Chicago, celebrated for her soulful voice and catchy, self-penned tunes that blend pop, rock, folk, and retro soul. Her latest album, Old Sky New, was recognized as one of the 13 Best Chicago Albums of 2024 by the Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ. Rachel’s music has been featured on NPR’s Great American Folk Show and WFMT’s legendary Midnight Special program. Alan Harrison of The Rocking Magpie writes of Rachel’s latest album, “There’s something of a hint of Dusty in Memphis, minus the strings here; as Rachel has a similar breathy and pearlescent voice that reels you in... pure Laurel Canyon at its height when Linda Ronstadt and Mama Cass could do no wrong.”

Leading up to Independence Day, The Pinkerton Raid’s songwriter Jesse James DeConto will release “The Fight for Freedom was in VOGUE,” about Lee Miller, Solange D’Ayen and the Parisian artists who stood up to the Nazi occupation in the ways they knew how. “VOGUE” is among a series of narrative-driven protest singles from his upcoming full-length album, IF YOU LOVE SOMEBODY, TELL THEM, singing his story as a dad trying to hold onto hope and imagine a future for his kids in the face of American fascism and climate catastrophe.

Back home in Durham, NC, with partners like Indivisible, Jesse often leads singalongs of classic protest songs from Bob Dylan, NENA, Neil Young, 4 Non-Blondes, Crowded House and others. “The sane response to tyrants is to sing,” Jesse says on “VOGUE,” inspired by a famous quote by revolutionary painter Pablo Picasso.

On July 9 at Uncommon Ground in Chicago, he’ll trade sets with Midwestern-born, NYC-based multi-instrumentalist Claire Wellin (San Fermin, Youth in a Roman Field), who will be playing music from her new record, The Sun and Fun Capital of the Midwest, which she made with support from the New York State Council on the Arts and is comprised of songs written about her family history. Claire is active with the Kairos Center’s Songs in the Key of Resistance and is a proud member of SURJ NYC.

Sign up at 4:00pm | open mic starts at 5:00pm

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!

This is an intimate, seated dinner show featuring Emma Somi!

Emma Somi is a singer-songwriter whose music explores the beauty and complexity of change. Her songs feel like conversations—honest, intimate, and deeply human. Joined by her band, she’ll bring a warm energy to the stage, blending heartfelt storytelling with soulful arrangements for a set that’s both reflective and joyful.

Jack Obrebski is a rising trumpet player based in Central Illinois and the Chicagoland area. His sextet, consisting of collegiate musicians based in Illinois, Baltimore, Texas, and New York, performs a wide array of jazz music ranging from jazz standards, contemporary compositions, and original compositions from the members of the band. Members include Jack Obrebski (Trumpet), Issac Hanson (Saxophone), Chloe Langford (Trombone and Vocals), Jude Peterson (Piano), Jack Geiger (Bass), and Ryan Weaver (Drums). Thank you for all your help, and I am beyond excited to work with you and perform at Uncommon Ground with my band on 7/2!

Via Vicary is a vibrant pop-soul artist known for her powerhouse vocals and magnetic, bubbly personality. Her voice is rich with emotion, effortlessly blending strength and soul, while her energy lights up every stage she steps on. Whether she’s performing or connecting with fans, Via brings joy, authenticity, and a sound you won’t forget.

Maddie Rose is an Americana singer/songwriter and musician from Newark, TX. She has been playing on any stage that will have her since she was 8 years old. She was awarded the 2022 “Young Artist Award” winner with the Texas Country Music Association and the 2nd place winner of the Telluride Bluegrass songwriters competition. Her style influences are Turnpike Troubadours, Sierra Ferrell, Gregory Alan Isakov, and Flatland Cavalry.

Sign up at 4:00pm | open mic starts at 5:00pm

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!

Krista: Ohio born singer and songwriter Krista is known for songs about love, loss, and transience that combine striking vocals with lilting, folk melodies. Krista’s sound and purpose reflects the struggles and charms of nomadic life and creating home as it is found, rather than where it is supposed or assumed to be. Krista can be found on Instagram @littlethinglikeme.

Smith the Girl: Smith, the Girl is a Chicago-based indie folk singer/songwriter whose music blends quiet emotion, reflective lyrics, and a stripped-back acoustic sound. As a practicing therapist, her songwriting is rooted in empathy, longing, and self-exploration—creating songs that feel like honest conversations. After building a presence through local open mics and cozy venues, Smith, the Girl is currently recording her debut EP. Smith the Girl can be found on IG @smiththegirlmusic and on Apple Music, Spotify, and Band Camp.

Lucy Jene: Somewhere between playful and profound, Lucy Jene is a Chicago folk-rock/western artist known for her unique voice and clever lyricism. She aims to feel like home with her sound, and her acoustic baritone guitar is the perfect tool to bring that extra warmth. She is currently working on her debut album, Hot Tomato Soup, to be released in the fall of 2026. She would love for you to join her on her journey on Instagram @lucy.jene.

Sunroom is a Chicago-based vocal trio singing both original music and self-arranged covers rooted in folk and soul harmony singing. Members Adina, Kasia, and Katie met over a decade ago singing in Uniting Voices Chicago and recently reconnected over a shared love of music as a vehicle for connection, healing, and joy. Motivated by a desire to expand the range of music heard in mainstream venues, Sunroom’s repertoire features tonal traditions and languages from around the world. Singing mostly a cappella, Sunroom centers voice as instrument, inviting audiences into their intimate exploration of group music-making.

Over the course of a prolific 40+ year career, 32 releases and 17 solo albums, Rees Shad has crafted music that is both poignant and profound. He is dedicated to crafting short story songs that cross genre lines to serve the spirit of each tale he weaves and engage his audiences in deep and meaningful ways. Shad’s latest release Porcelain Angel is being lauded for its “grace and elegance” (Americana UK), “all-knowing tonality” (Americana Highways), and for “pushing the boundaries of musical storytelling” (The Rogovoy Report). For additional information, please visit www.ReesShadMusic.com.

Tim Cheesebrow started writing songs in the 90’s as a way to make sense of the world. He studied the craft in earnest while getting his degree in classical music composition, and cemented his style while volunteering at a monastery and school near New Orleans. 20 years later and he’s still at it, playing over 120 shows per year. He now has seven full-length solo albums under his belt, a published book on songwriting, a studio, a music education non-profit, and is showing no signs of slowing down. His music layers an eclectic mix of styles to create a sound with modern grooves, catchy melodies, and a sense of being grounded in deep roots. He’s known for his percussive guitar work, capo-wizardry, and an expressive voice big enough to fill any room. Tim’s lyrics are heartfelt and honest, bringing audiences with him to explore concepts of family, self-doubt, hope, grief, and the many facets of love. He looks to music as a source of healing and puts that magic to work at each performance so listeners leave with more than they expected to find. Tim’s calm and passionate presence, combined with his thoughtful song-craft, make him a favorite of intimate listening rooms.

Barely Carvallo is ambience & darkness, indecision & resolution. This emotive project from Dave Ratzek explores melancholic themes guided by chords that rest at the juxtaposition of dreamful tranquility and shadowed sorrow. Ahead of his upcoming third EP 'Sky-Lit Silhouettes', which is set to be released later this year and played in a full band setting, he'll be performing arrangements of those same songs for the very first time as a solo acoustic set.

Kevin Presbrey blends classic storytelling influences like Jim Croce, Don McLean, and Van Morrison with a modern Americana edge. He’s been an active touring and recording artist since the early 2000s, with music featured on MTV, VH1, and Fox, and has shared stages with Sister Hazel, The Doobie Brothers, Rusted Root, and Big Head Todd & The Monsters.

He’s currently seeing major new momentum online — his song “Afterglow” has generated over 17 million TikTok impressions since August — introducing his music to a rapidly growing audience. In November, KP signed with Santa Anna Records / Sony Music and is now recording and releasing 12 new tracks this year with producer Josh Frigo.

His earlier albums include Dust Unto Dust, produced by Ryan Hadlock (The Lumineers, Vance Joy), and Falling Together, recorded in Nashville with Skylar Wilson (Justin Townes Earle, Rayland Baxter), both rooted in personal storytelling, resilience, and connection.

KP is a strong podcast guest for conversations around songwriting craft, indie career longevity, viral discovery, and today’s Americana landscape.

Sign up at 4:00pm | open mic starts at 5:00pm

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!

Fleuke, aka Michaela Sheranko Walz, is a New England based indie artist that blends raw lyricism with grunge soundscapes. Raised singing in church and self-taught on piano and guitar, she developed an early instinct for harmony and songwriting.

After moving to Nashville in 2014, Fleuke found her footing in writer’s rounds, deepening her love for storytelling through song. Years of co-writing shaped her voice, but it was a turning point diagnosis of chronic Lyme disease that ultimately redefined it. Returning home for treatment, originally felt like a setback but ultimately became the turning point for Fleuke. Reconnecting with childhood friends, the project evolved into a full band, grounding her introspective writing in a more expansive, textured sound.

With the band, Fleuke has opened for Judah & the Lion at the House of Blues Boston, completed her first independent Midwest tour, and continues to grow their presence across New England. They are currently preparing for their second independent tour this June.

Carter Hulsey is an Americana singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt storytelling and authentic melodies. His music blends folk, rock, and country, characterized by raw emotion, honest lyrics, and unforgettable hooks. Over the years, he’s released several albums, including Drive Out (2014), Haunt Me (2017) and Start Staying (2021) all of which helped solidify his reputation for delivering powerful, narrative-driven songs.

Beyond his music, Hulsey is passionate about community engagement and education. He actively participates in initiatives like Funding the Future, where he teaches young people about financial literacy through music and interactive sessions. A Missouri native now based in Nashville, Tennessee, Hulsey continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic live performances, blending his love for storytelling with a dedication to making a meaningful impact on his community. His music and activism reflect his genuine commitment to both artistry and social change.

Mathieu Mieling is a Chicago-based singer-songwriter blending sass and soul into a modern jazz experience. Drawing inspiration from artists like Diana Krall, Fiona Apple, Macy Gray, and Nat King Cole, Mieling takes his deep love for jazz and reshapes it through a fresh, contemporary lens. With appearances at respected Chicago venues and a debut album set for release in late summer 2026, Mieling is carving out a sound that feels both classic and undeniably new.

Franki is a singer-songwriter blending pop, soul, and R&B into a raw, emotionally charged live experience. Influenced by artists like Adele, Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin, and Brittany Howard, she delivers powerhouse vocals grounded in honesty, grit, and modern storytelling. A current student at Berklee College of Music, she has released two singles and is building momentum toward her debut album. With a sound that balances vulnerability and force, Franki is carving out her space as a bold new voice in contemporary soul-driven pop.

Zinnia Dungjen and Audrey Mason are multi-faceted instrumentalists and vocalists. Both graduates of Interlochen Arts Academy majoring in singer/songwriting ('25 and '26), they have since become recording artists as well as performers and writers. From Northern Michigan, they have been playing as a band together since 2023, and have had the privilege to share the stage with artists like Grammy nominated Five For Fighting, The Accidentals, Joshua Davis, Claud, Patrice Rushen, Dar Williams and more. The group highlights imagery-driven lyricism and striking vocal harmonies, playing both covers and originals. Think indie/alt/folk girl power duo. 

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. Keep an eye out for her first solo album ‘Heart Matter’ debuting July 9th 2026.

Henry Alanna is a folk/alternative singer-songwriter with a love of all things earnest and absurd. They make their music for the freaks and geeks, the lovers and fighters, and the make-it-alright-ers. Whether you’re having a breakdown, a breakthrough, or just need a break, Henry’s songs are an invitation to cradle the soft parts of yourself with care.

Sunflower Summit (she/they) is a queer Latinx Chicago based artist, writing and performing music that hits right in the feels! Sunflower Summit blends pop, country, and folk, to tell a story of hope and community. “Keep on Hoping” - a collection of politically charged music - is set to release Summer ‘26! Made up of vocalist and writer Maria Requena, cellist Allison Hill, lap steel guitarist Jackie Walter, drummer Dan Munck, and guitarist Justin Merchan, the group creates intimate and cozy energy for every performance that any listener can connect with!

dmb the etymology (solo) is the groovy and explosive indie project of devyn-marshall brown.

Do you yearn? Are you in awe of the world around you? Do you feel sexy and a little haunted? Ask your doctors about Apres Pompeii. Apres Pompeii is a singer-songwriter known to treat these symptoms, and more. Side-effects of listening to Apres Pompeii include existentialism, falling in love with everyone you meet, and feeling like The Main Character in your life. Some listeners of Apres Pompeii may find themselves moved by the soaring vocals and poetic lyrics, genre experimentation may cause dizziness–if necessary, swoon into the arms of the person next to you. You can find Apres Pompeii on all streaming services and social media.

Sign up at 4:00pm | open mic starts at 5:00pm

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!

There will be no show tonight due to a Private Party. The restaurant is still open for normal service! :)

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 will be released on vinyl this Fall.

Caryn Dixon’s journey in country music is rooted in authenticity, resilience, and emotional connection. Hailing from central Pennsylvania, she discovered her passion for songwriting at just seven years old and has grown into an artist deeply committed to sharing honest, lived-in stories that resonate far beyond the song. Caryn has been recognized by Cowgirl Magazine and The Women of Country, and she regularly collaborates with Nashville’s top songwriters and producers.

Zack Fedor is an Illinois-based singer-songwriter and Americana/country artist, hailing from the small farming community of Waverly, IL, where he began performing in local taverns as early as 2011. Known for his raw, engaging solo shows that feel like an "amplified hangout session"—complete with heartfelt storytelling, witty sarcasm, philosophical twists, and sing-along barroom vibes—he blends rootsy country, rock 'n' roll, and twangy influences drawn from personal experiences of hardship, love, loss, drinking, and small-town life.

Fielder is the Nashville-based duo of Addison Agen and Skye Peterson. Inspired by artists like Patty Griffin, Phoebe Bridgers, Noah Gundersen, and Kacey Musgraves, Fielder's music is thoughtful, spirited, and heartfelt. Their debut self-titled album released in August 2025, and they spent the rest of the year touring the country opening for The Arcadian Wild.