Small Town: A John Mellencamp Experience

SMALL TOWN is the country’s #1 John Mellencamp Experience. This tribute band, comprised 100% of Hoosier natives, has set out to bring the musical catalog of John Mellencamp to life on stage just as Mellencamp has done year after year, decade after decade. Mellencamp is an Indiana native and legendary rock icon! SMALL TOWN has recreated his high-energy shows and the music spanning his 40+ year career! SMALL TOWN is a show for all ages and a perfect fit for any festival or indoor venue!

Authenticity to the music is the key to SMALL TOWN’s success. Nothing is sampled, and all instruments are played live just as you would hear them at a John Mellencamp concert. With over 25 Top 20 hit songs spanning 40 years, everyone will recognize his music, sing along, and dance the night away!

SMALL TOWN is a 7-piece band: Jen Cimballa on Violin and vocals, Bob Heckler on keyboards, accordion and Melodica, Jim Croke on Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin and vocals, Chris Sulcer on Lead Guitar and vocals, Brian Gulley on Bass and vocals, Shane Samaniego on drums, and Doug Clapp on lead vocals.
SMALL TOWN is a non-stop party!!

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SJ McDonald

Born and raised in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, SJ developed her tenacity and dedication working on her family’s 5-generation cattle and turkey farm. Along with callused hands, she found her adoration for country music, loving the legends of the 90s and 2000s country eras. SJ started writing and performing at just 9 years old, leading her own band throughout high school, and found her way to Nashville at 18. She landed weekly slots on Lower Broadway playing for tips, where she spent 6 years cutting her teeth and honing in her style of performing – which can only be described as high energy, infectious, and country to the core.

Alongside her own independent artist journey, which has taken her along a self-booked coast-to-coast tour throughout the summer of 2023,  SJ recently furthered her career as a songwriter, signing a publishing deal with Major Bob Music.

SJ is a force to be reckoned with on every stage she steps her broken-in-boots on. After a successful 2023 of independently releasing music, and being the May 2024 CMT: Next Up Now artist pick, SJ is gearing up to get back into the studio to work on the release of her next project. Until then, she’ll be serving up some down-home country music to crowds across the country.

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Charity Bowden

​Charity Bowden is a country music artist from Hope Hull, Alabama, whose rich, soulful voice embodies the spirit of classic country legends like Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn. Her music seamlessly blends traditional country melodies with contemporary influences, creating a sound that resonates with both old-school enthusiasts and modern listeners. Growing up on a cattle farm, Charity’s deep-rooted connection to authentic country living infuses her songs with genuine storytelling and heartfelt emotion.

At just 17, Charity captured national attention as a contestant on Season 11 of NBC’s The Voice, earning a spot on Miley Cyrus’s team. Her performances showcased her ability to deliver powerful renditions of classics, such as her cover of “Girl Crush,” which highlighted her vocal depth and emotional range. Beyond her solo endeavors, Charity joined forces with Victoria Camp and Kate Falcon to form the Sweet Tea Trio, an all-female harmony group celebrated for their tight-knit vocals and dynamic performances. Their collaboration has led to the release of the EP Sugar Rush, produced by Kid Rock, further cementing their place in the country music scene. ​

Charity’s dedication to her craft is evident in her ongoing songwriting and performances across the country. Whether she’s delivering a soulful ballad or an upbeat anthem, her music invites listeners into a world where tradition meets innovation. For fans of heartfelt lyrics and authentic country sounds, Charity Bowden offers a refreshing and captivating musical experience.

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Preston James

Preston James is a country music artist from Cheatham County, Tennessee, whose sound is a dynamic fusion of country storytelling, bluesy depth, and rockabilly energy. Raised in a musically rich environment—his mother a former publicist for artists like Miranda Lambert and the Dixie Chicks, and his father a tour manager for Collin Raye—Preston’s passion for music ignited early. By six, he was strumming his first guitar; by eight, penning his own songs. His influences span from country legends like Merle Haggard and Patsy Cline to blues icons such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, culminating in a style that’s both authentic and electrifying. ​

Preston’s journey took a national turn at 16 when he joined Team Blake on Season 11 of The Voice, showcasing his versatile talent and earning mentorship from industry greats. Following this exposure, he graced iconic stages like Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, opening for the Brian Setzer Orchestra, and performed alongside luminaries such as Vince Gill and Delbert McClinton.

In November 2024, Preston released his debut EP, White Trash From Wayback, a collection that delves into themes of small-town life, love, and personal experiences. Tracks like “Deal with the Devil” and “Fences” highlight his knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with compelling melodies, resonating with listeners seeking genuine storytelling. Whether delivering a soulful ballad or an upbeat anthem, Preston James captivates audiences with his distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence, solidifying his place as a rising star in the country music landscape.​

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Chris as Luke Bryan, Erica as Miranda Lambert, and Rob as Zac Brown Band

​Icons of Country is a premier tribute ensemble that brings the energy and spirit of Nashville’s biggest stars to the stage. Known for their dynamic performances and authentic portrayals, the group offers audiences an unforgettable journey through country music’s most iconic hits.

In our Backyard Series concert, Icons of Country will feature:​

• Chris as Luke Bryan: Capturing the charismatic stage presence and contemporary country sound that has made Luke Bryan a household name.​

• Erica as Miranda Lambert: Delivering the fierce vocals and heartfelt storytelling reminiscent of Miranda Lambert’s celebrated performances.​

• Rob as Zac Brown Band: Recreating the harmonious blend of country, bluegrass, and rock that defines the Zac Brown Band’s signature style.​

Audiences can expect a night filled with chart-topping songs, from Luke Bryan’s upbeat anthems to Miranda Lambert’s soulful ballads and the Zac Brown Band’s eclectic hits. Whether you’re a lifelong country fan or new to the genre, Icons of Country promises a high-energy show that celebrates the music and artistry of these legendary performers.

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