Musicians can take their craft anywhere, but these emerging artists choose to make a living here in Baton Rouge—proving you don’t have to go to Nashville or New York to find talent. Representing genres as varied as jazz, rock and roll, country and electronic, these record-makers know how to draw crowds to Capital City music venues.
From album releases to new collaborations, they share their big plans for the coming months. Keep an eye on these artists. You’ll probably spot them around town soon—and before you know it, maybe on a national stage, too.
Profiles by Jeff Roedel, Matthew Sigur and Jennifer Tormo
Photos by Stephanie Landry and Collin Richie
BEN BELL
This singer-songwriter charms audiences with his folk love songs
THE GILLIS SILO
This country band has performed all over, but Baton Rouge is still home
CAROLINE SCHAFF
Optimism and deviled eggs—it’s all on display in this singer-songwriter’s material
LOUDNESS WAR
The most psychedelic rock ‘n’ roll band of Baton Rouge is barely legal
SHIP OF FOOLS
These pop rockers bring a young, creative energy to their cello-heavy tunes
MARCEL P. BLACK
This rap artist hopes to send youngsters positive messages through his lyrics
MATT TORTORICH
This Grammy-nominated DJ/producer has a few tricks up his sleeve
CAPTAIN GREEN
Baton Rouge’s premier intergalactic space jazz band? Sure, why not.
MORE FROM THE APRIL COVER STORY:
• More bands in Baton Rouge to check out
• The best local music venues
• Our guide to spring festivals
• Editor Jennifer Tormo shares insights from interviews with the bands we featured this month