Ivy Ford also known as “The Chicago Blues Kitten,” is a versatile and talented old soul. From singing the blues to being sultry in any genre, she is an indigo artist who’s gift connects those who are around her and those who listen. Ivy Ford commands an energy that is most magical. Ivy Ford kick started her career , opening up for Buddy Guy in 2015. Since then she’s become a staple at the world famous blues club and has performed bi-coastal North and South, ranked in the top 40 of the International Blues Challenge and released an original album solely written and produced, herself. Ivy Ford is the next generation of blues, roots and soul music.

www.IvyFordMusic.com

The Madtown Mannish Boys are a Madison-based Blues band who are steeped in Chicago-style Blues, including artists like Muddy Waters, Junior Wells, Otis Spann, Paul Butterfield, and Little Walter. They play harmonica-driven tunes with gritty fervor and dynamic energy, and they perform with raw exuberance and driving rhythms that make you want to boogie!
Andy Smith has a powerful and soulful voice, reminiscent of some of the greats from Blues and R&B. Paul Schwoerer wields his harmonica with a chip on his shoulder and plays with nimble intensity, while Jesse “Honey Boy” Steinberg injects flurries of guitar riffs into the lively grooves laid down by Tim Payne (bass) and Nate Morenek (drums). Adam Pryor (keys) is one of the most sought-after Blues keyboardists in the Midwest, featuring endorsements from Hammond, Korg, Rev33, and Stay Stands, frequently joined by Jason Schultz (trombone) and Dan Resnick (saxophone).
http://www.madtownmannishboys.com

 

A Mini-Mile of Music makes its way to Downtown Appleton on Monday night, March 12. The Wisconsin Governor’s Conference on Tourism is in town, so our Fox Cities tourism leaders asked us to showcase what the Mile of Music Festival is all about! It’s a great chance for some of our local artists to shine for a state audience.

This event is FREE and takes place at 9 Downtown Appleton venues, and will feature 15 artists. The Mini-Mile of Music is open to conference-goers, as well as the public. Can you think of a better way to spend your Monday night?

Here’s our FULL schedule of events (artists and set times are subject to change):
Copper Rock Coffee Co (all ages):
6:30-7:15pm: Rob Anthony
7:30-9:00pm: Auralai (duo)

Gibson Music Hall  Open at 4:30!!  (21+):
7-10pm: Nordlund and More Then Merry

Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Atrium:
3:30-5pm: Kyle Megna & Ross Catterton

Fox Cities Performing Arts Center (Main Lobby, all ages – 21+ to purchase alcohol):
7-9:30pm: Megan Slankard (solo) and Bascom Hill (trio)

CU Saloon (21+):
7-10pm: Kurt Gunn (solo and band performances)

Mill Creek (21+):
7:30-10pm: Christopher Gold (solo and Christopher Gold & The New Old Things)

Deja Vu Martini Lounge (21+):
7-10pm: J-Council and The Lately

Appleton Beer Factory (21+):
6:30-10pm: Kyle Megna & The Monsoons (solo, duo, band)

Stone Arch Brewpub Taproom (21+):
6:30-9:30pm: The Chocolateers

This event is FREE and open to conference-goers, as well as the public, as capacity allows at each individual venue.

Thank you to the artists and venues for making this possible!

Thanks to our presenting sponsors: Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau, Tundraland, and Tempest

Collaborating Sponsors include: Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau, Appleton Downtown, Mile of Music Festival, Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, Lamers Bus Lines, Radisson Paper Valley Hotel and Fox Cities Exhibition Center.