Berkeley Stenstrom is a Rockford native, singer songwriter with an indie pop sensibility performing her own originals as well as covers from artists like Ashe and FINNEAS, Post Malone, Cindy Lauper, and Adele. 

Mckenna Faith Winters is the 2025 Josie Award Winner for Song of the Year Modern/Pop Country Female (“Forgot Your Name”), and in her own words, makes music for those that struggle with self worth and confidence.

Originally from Rockford, IL, Clark Kelly moved to Nashville, TN, to attend esteemed music college Belmont University. In his second year, he was voted one of their best songwriters in an annual songwriting competition, establishing him as an artist to watch. After graduating, Clark signed with Sony/ATV, a company which represents many top artists including Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. He has played concerts across the country, opening for Panic at the Disco and the All-American Rejects, among others. Clark released his third EP, Frames, in 2018 and is currently back in his hometown releasing new music recorded with an orchestra.

Ethan is a country-rock singer / songwriter from rural Illinois. He started writing songs as a teenager, and by 17 was performing in bars, music halls, and county fairs throughout the Midwest.

Cellist in the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, 414 Quartet, formerly of I’m Not A Pilot (2009-15) Adjunct cello faculty at Carthage College, private cello teacher, collaborative artist, clinician, educator, composer, and arranger.

Jaik Willis is a strumming & drumming One Man Band,  a wild fire-breathing freakshow; playing an 11 piece drum set with his feet while playing guitars / bass / & harps; while sing and beatboxing simultaneously, live with no looping or electronics. Performing 300 shows a year with appearances at Bonnaroo, Summer Camp Music Fest, Dunegrass, the Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Fests etc. Jaik Willis got a shout out in Rolling Stone magazine for his vocal contribution to the album “FreeStyle” that debuted at #1 on iTunes.

Hailing from Rockford Illinois, Tristan brings a heavier style to the solo acoustic genre. Playing original music, 90s grunge covers, and acoustic renditions of the songs he wrote with his band Dark Sun.

David Hayes is a music maker, singer songwriter and power trio rocker. He’s a Dockside Live favorite and we are glad to have him back!

Dan Maguire is a talented singer-songwriter based in Rockford, IL, known for his captivating blend of Southern rock, jazz, and country influences. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Tom Petty, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dan’s music features dynamic guitar work and introspective lyrics that resonate with listeners. His debut solo album, "Travelin' Light," released in 2023, won Album of the Year at the Rockford Area Music Industry Awards, showcasing his unique sound and storytelling ability.

Paul Bronson has a unique style, reminiscent of classical-influenced instrumental rock mixed with smooth Jazz. With a focus on elaborate technique, execution and a style dubbed "Neo-Classical Artistic Guitar". His original compositions are easy on the ears and take the listener to a myriad of destinations.

The Lone Canary is an Americana duo from Rockford, Illinois, made up of longtime collaborators Jesse Fox and Heather Camacho. Known for their haunting harmonies, raw storytelling, and chemistry forged over decades of making music together, they’ve drawn comparisons to Jason Isbell, The Civil Wars, Watchhouse, and Gillian Welch & David Rawlings. The duo has shared stages with acts such as Over the Rhine, Lilly Hiatt, Pieta Brown, with performances at Mile of Music, Knoxville’s Blue Plate Special, and NPR Music. They will be touring throughout 2026 in support of their third album, Dime Store Horses, which arrived September 12, 2025.

Jim Thomas is a full-time musician based in Loves Park, with over 10 years of experience performing in the local area. His vocal abilities are his strength, allowing him to cover a diverse range of musical genres. Over the past decade, Jim has been involved with multiple bands, including Off the Grid, The Real Deal, and Last Call 815. Currently, he is focusing on his solo career and releasing original music. Jim plays both Yamaha and Fender guitars, and prefers Shure/Sennheiser vocal microphones for his performances.

Come out to hear Matt Jaye, a midwest artists perform modern country originals and covers.