8 Southern Arizona Musicians to Look Out For
Southern Arizona is home to plenty of cacti, wildlife, and ravaging sunsets. It is also home to a vibrant music scene. Though the region encompasses some large cities such as Phoenix and Tucson, the "hometown" vibe is strong in this music community. Musicians support one another and cheer each other on. Opportunities like the Tucson Folk Festival, Country Thunder, Gem and Jam Festival, Arizona Roots Festival, and the Arizona State Fair offer a wide range of live music for all.
Having started my music career in the Tucson area, I was blessed to see the Southern Arizona scene blossom and grow over the years. I have shared the stage with many talented artists and am excited to acquaint you with a few I am familiar with, as well as some newer artists I have yet to meet in person.
Without further ado (and in no particular order), here is my go-to list of 8 Southern Arizona Musicians to Look Out For:
1. Steff and The Articles
"Alternative pop from the desert." Steff and The Articles have been around for quite some time now. Having formed back in 2009, I remember playing one of my very first shows alongside this band down in a U of A student lounge. To keep a local band together for this long is quite a feat, and some of the members have been around for years!
Their lineup is unique. While Steff leads the group with stellar vocals and piano chops, the group also features multiple violinists alongside the bass, guitar, and drums. The group "touches on jazz, classical, and folk styles while maintaining an accessible, pop-oriented sound. They’ve opened up for national acts such as A Great Big World and Copeland (whose record Ixora features Steff)."
In 2017, Steff and The Articles released their full-length album, Timekeeper (check it out below). They also just celebrated their 10th anniversary at the beginning of this year. Congrats!
Side Note: If you are looking into piano lessons for yourself or a family member, check out lead singer/pianist Steff Koeppen's online option!
Follow Steff and The Articles:
Facebook: @steffandthearticles
Instagram: @steffandthearticles
Website: steffandthearticles.com
Twitter: @SteffArticles
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/steffandthearticles/
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2. Sophia Rankin
With a unique, folky sound and a mature voice that speaks levels above this artist's current age, Sophia Rankin continues to bring joy to the Tucson area. A pianist, guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, Rankin has spent her most recent years at the University of Arizona, securing a degree in Music Integrated Studies. She has received multiple awards for her original music.
"Rankin’s music style is an Americana-like blend of folk, rock, and pop [...] With a collaborative mix of genres and a strong foundation in folk roots, Rankin’s band provides a unique blend of folk rock and alternative sounds to their original music."
Sophia's next performance is scheduled for Friday, August 14, 2020 at Desert Southwest Open Mic:
Follow Sophia Rankin:
Website: sophiarankin.com
Facebook: