Annapolis isn’t just a sailing town. It’s a music town. From packed shows at Rams Head On Stage to sidewalk sing-alongs downtown, live music adds rhythm to life around here. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the local scene, there’s something undeniably special about the way this town sounds.
To spotlight that sound, we chose to feature artists who regularly play right here in our community on the stages, patios, and festivals that give Annapolis its voice. Our list was thoughtfully shaped with input from some of the area’s most trusted music insiders, including BeeprBuzz, Annapolis Musicians Fund for Musicians (AMFM), and Laura Price, Director of Marketing for Rams Head Group.
We’ve put together a close look at the artists, venues, and stories that make the Annapolis music scene feel more like a community than a competition. As BeeprBuzz, one of the scene’s biggest champions, says: “The Annapolis music scene is really like a big family. Musicians here are genuinely rooting for each other, helping each other out, and sharing gigs when someone’s in need. Even during tough times like COVID, we came together to support each other and keep the music alive.”
Doug Segree: Spreading Sunshine and Positivity
About the Artist
Doug Segree’s music is steeped in positivity, with a soulful edge that resonates across generations. Whether he’s playing solo, with his kids’ band SQRRL! or headlining a packed house, Segree’s songs aim to uplift—even in life’s toughest moments.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
“Hopeful. Even in the hard stuff, I try to find the silver lining and put it into a song.”
Favorite venue in Annapolis?
“Rams Head On Stage is my go-to—it’s where people truly listen. But I have love for any spot that supports live music, like 49 West.”
Best memory of performing in Annapolis?
“Hard to pick one, but selling out Rams Head for my shows—especially with my band SQRRL!—makes me feel like a proud parent. Also, singing the national anthem at FedEx Field (now Northwest Stadium) was a highlight.”
A local act you’d love to collaborate with?
“Dan Haas, Pressing Strings, Jimi Davies…I don’t want to leave anyone out, but I’ll collaborate with anybody, really.”
What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene?
“The brotherhood. We’re all doing what we love, and the town truly supports that.”
How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene?
“I’ve been playing here for over 30 years. From classical guitar to full-time musician, this city welcomed me early on—and I never looked back.”
What’s your goal with your music?
“To keep it fresh and fulfilling. I’ve made a living doing this for decades, and I still love writing, performing, and reinventing what that looks like.”
MIGGS: Southern Grit Meets Heartfelt Storytelling
About the Artist
MIGGS brings a Texas-grown country sound to Annapolis, combining the raw edge of Brantley Gilbert with the emotional storytelling of Luke Combs. A former Air Force member turned songwriter, his music is equal parts rowdy and reflective.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
“Country music with grit and heart. It’s storytelling you can dance to.”
Favorite venue in Annapolis?
“Rams Head On Stage. It’s an intimate space that demands attention, and I love that challenge. I opened for Jimmy Charles there recently, and it was unforgettable.”
Best memory of performing in Annapolis?
“That Rams Head show takes the cake. Getting invited on stage [during Jimmy’s set] after opening for [him] was surreal. Core memory, unlocked.”
A local act you’d love to collaborate with?
“I’ve got a lot of respect for the songwriters around here. Annapolis is full of great talent—I’d love to work with more of them down the line.”
What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene?
“It’s welcoming. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned local, people are down to listen, connect, and collaborate.”
How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene?
“There is this one place called the Broken Oar Bar and Grill, actually where I met my wife. I met with Scott, the owner, and he said, ‘Dude, you can play country music here. Let’s do it.’ What started as one session turned into multiple shows, and five years later, it’s still going. It really grew by word of mouth, people enjoyed what I was bringing to the table, and it just took off from there.”
What’s your goal with your music?
“I just wanna continue to write music. I wanna continue playing music. I’m riding the wave as long as I can and am enjoying every part of it.”
Grilled Lincolns: Eclectic Vibes and All-Star Collaborations
About the Band
Grilled Lincolns bring a genre-defying sound to the stage, blending hip-hop, rock, funk, and soul with high energy and humor. Known for their unpredictable live shows and deep local roots, the band keeps things fresh by collaborating with other artists and leaning into the community vibe that defines Annapolis.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
“Fun and all over the place, like a mixtape. Our live shows jump between styles, which keeps the crowd on their toes.”
Favorite venue in Annapolis?
“Back in the day, The Whiskey was our home base. Now? We love anywhere that embraces original music, but Eastport-a-Rockin’ is a favorite for sure.”
Best memory of performing in Annapolis?
“Last year at Eastport-a-Rockin’, we invited musicians from other bands—Mike McHenry, Marty Bouchard, and more—to finish out our set with us. It was one of those full-circle moments where community and creativity came together.”
A local act you’d love to collaborate with?
“We already collaborate a ton! It’s part of our DNA. We’re always jumping in with friends at shows, and that kind of open collaboration is what makes the scene here so special.”
What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene?
“Everyone shows up for each other. Bands support each other, pass gigs around, and bring each other up. There’s no ego—it’s just love for the music.”
How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene?
“Most of us came from Salisbury and leaned on Annapolis as one of our core spots. We’d drive up every Sunday to play gigs and then head home after 2 a.m. It was a grind—but worth every mile.”
What’s your goal with your music?
“These days, it’s about balance. We all have families and full lives, so we play once or twice a month. Music is our outlet, our way of staying connected and creative.”
Davonne D’Neil: Soulful Stories and Feel-Good Funk
About the Artist
Davonne D’Neil creates music that makes you feel. Her R&B and soul-infused sound is made of funk, gospel, and emotion-driven lyrics, delivered with warmth and authenticity. Whether she’s performing at a packed venue or a quiet listening room, she’s all about connection and community.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
“I make R&B and soul, but more than that, my music is a feeling. If you walk away having felt something, I did a good thing.”
Favorite venue in Annapolis?
“I miss The Whiskey so much! That’s where I started after college, but I also love 49 West.”
Best memory of performing in Annapolis?
“A sold-out live recording at Metropolitan—shoulder-to-shoulder crowd, such a good time.”
A local act you’d love to collaborate with?
“KoJo Snowden for sure—we’ve worked together a lot. And huge shout out to the Songbird Collective for expanding my audience and lifting up women artists in the scene.”
What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene?
“The diversity. A lot of different pockets of musicians and different types and styles of music.”
How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene?
“Started singing in church and at weddings. Then came a talent show at [Anne Arundel Community College], more gigs, and it all snowballed from there.”
What’s your goal with your music?
“It changes. Sometimes I want to tour, other times I’m content with music being my outlet. As long as it’s real and resonates, I’m good.”
Dean Rosenthal: American Roots, Straight from the Heart
About the Artist
Dean has been playing music in Annapolis for over 50 years, blending blues, country, rockabilly, and classic American songwriting into what he calls “American roots.” With a barroom soul and a deep love for the Annapolis arts scene, Dean’s performances are steeped in experience, authenticity, and storytelling. He holds a unique place in local music history as the first artist ever to perform at Rams Head On Stage, helping to launch what would become one of Annapolis’s most beloved venues.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
“I call it American roots—it pulls from blues, rockabilly, country, and anything born from American music traditions. I’m a barroom guitar player at heart.”
Favorite venue in Annapolis?
“49 West. Because it’s a nice little small listening room.”
A local act you’d love to collaborate with?
“There are too many to name—but I’ve always loved the diversity of this scene. It’s full of great players and even better people.”
What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene?
“No cutthroats here. It’s collaborative, creative, and welcoming. That’s rare. There are so many places to play in Annapolis, and that’s why I stayed here all these years. Everyone’s friendly. It’s a real community.”
How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene?
“I was born in Annapolis, started playing at The Docks in the ’70s, and never left. Music here is part of who I am.”
What’s your goal with your music?
“To keep playing, connecting with people, and being part of this local scene.”
Laura Brino: Folk-Pop Storytelling with Heart
About the Artist
Laura Brino blends indie folk-pop with heartfelt lyrics and introspective themes—what she lovingly calls “mom pop.” With six studio albums under her belt and a deeply personal approach to her work, Laura’s music resonates with those navigating life’s shifting seasons.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
“It’s indie folk-pop—what I call ‘mom pop’ now. The themes are more complex than breakups. It’s grown-up, introspective songwriting.”
Favorite venue in Annapolis?
“Rams Head On Stage. It’s a true listening room with incredible sound and energy.”
Best memory of performing in Annapolis?
“My Cactus Moon album release show at ArtFarm. We screened 13 music videos, my family helped with everything, and my daughter even sang on stage. It was pure joy.”
A local act you’d love to collaborate with?
“Too many to name, but I’m proud to be a founder of Songbird Collective, which lifts up women and nonbinary artists. My next project continues that mission.”
What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene?
“The community. It’s grown into something so inclusive and vibrant—artists can truly be themselves here.”
How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene?
“I started playing open mics as a teenager at Ego Alley. Back then, it felt a little isolating—but now, the scene is incredibly rich and collaborative.”
What’s your goal with your music?
“I just want my songs to connect with the people who need to hear them. Whether it’s 10 people or 600, that connection is everything.”
Bumpin Uglies’ Brandon Hardesty: Punk-Infused Reggae with a Personal Touch
About the Artist
Brandon Hardesty fronts Bumpin Uglies, a lyrically driven rock band rooted in punk and reggae. With national tours, a passionate fanbase, and a sound that’s always evolving, Brandon balances big-stage energy with raw, introspective songwriting.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
“We’re a rock band at our core, but everything is lyrically driven. The songs are rooted in punk and reggae.”
Favorite venue in Annapolis?
“It depends on the show—solo acoustic gigs are great at Rams Head because it’s a listening room. For the full band, I love Cult Classic. It has that rock club vibe we thrive in.”
Best memory of performing in Annapolis?
“Some of the best were at Union Jacks (now Club Vibe) back in the day. Those wild, packed-out nights were unforgettable.”
A local act you’d love to collaborate with?
“Joey Harkum is one of my best friends and a killer songwriter.”
What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene?
“I think a big part of what makes the Annapolis music scene special is the number of venues that support live music—not just on weekends, but throughout the week. There are so many bars and spots that give musicians a place to play.”
How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene?
“I started playing guitar at 17, but it wasn’t until I was 21 that I began performing at open mics and realized this was what I wanted to do. I was waiting tables at the time, building my skills, and slowly picked up acoustic cover gigs—just a few a month at first. Eventually, I was booking enough shows to quit my serving job and pursue music full-time.”
What’s your goal with your music?
“I am very goal-oriented and really want to see how far we can take it.”
Honey Sol: Groovin’ Through Annapolis with Funk, R&B, and Yacht Rock
About the Band
Honey Sol is a high-energy band that blends funk, R&B, and yacht rock influences, creating a groove-heavy sound that’s impossible to ignore. This family band has carved out its own unique space in the Annapolis music scene with a lively, dance-worthy repertoire and a strong connection to the local community. Their music is all about bringing people together, making you want to move, and giving you that “good vibes only” feeling.
I spoke with the band lead, Mac, who plays bass and handles vocals. Her brother Andrew drums, and their father Lee plays the guitar.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
“It’s a big amalgamation of groove-based music from the ’70s, inspired by R&B, funk, and yacht rock. It’s a blend of all the music I love, with an emphasis on getting people to dance and have fun.”
Favorite venue in Annapolis?
“Stan and Joe’s! We love the energy we get from the crowd there. It’s always a blast, and the staff makes it feel like family.”
Best memory of performing in Annapolis?
“Performing at Eastport-a-Rockin’ last year was unforgettable. We got to share the stage with bands we’ve admired for years, like Sweet Leda and The Grilled Lincolns, and the crowd’s energy was incredible. Props to Christina Willharm for putting together such an amazing show!”
A local act you’d love to collaborate with?
“We love and admire so many of the musicians and artists in this community, but if I had to choose, I’d shout out Meg Murray, Madisun Bailey, Michael K, and Tavair Dominique. We also have a lot of love for The Candy Rocks and Denny’s Open Mic Night!”
What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene?
“The sense of community and togetherness of it all. It’s really awesome to see musicians in this scene welcome other musicians in with such open arms, and being down to help in any way, the up-and-coming artists just starting out.”
How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene?
“We own a music school and we all work there. It’s a family business called Priddy Music Academy, owned by my dad, Lee (our guitarist). Long before we became teachers at the academy, my brother Andrew (our drummer) and I took lessons and were in bands there playing shows together since I was 9 and he was 10. Then in our teens, our bands started playing out professionally for a bit, and my dad and I became members of John VanDyke and the All-Stars, which really got us deeper into the scene, gave us a lot of real opportunities and we made some amazing memories, all thanks to John. A few years after that, Andrew, my dad, and I realized we knew a lot of songs between us from years of gigging, so we thought, ‘Why aren’t we in a band together?’ and that’s how Honey Sol was born.”
What’s your goal with your music?
“Of course, we’d love to go national someday, but what matters most is that we’re doing what we love. As long as we can make music our profession, we’ll be happy, whether it’s performing, teaching, or jamming with friends.”
Live music in Annapolis is always within reach. Whether it’s a weeknight open mic or a festival like Eastport-a-Rockin’, this community shows up. These musicians are not just performers. They are your neighbors, teachers, and friends, and they bring heart to every stage in town.
P.J. Thomas, president of AMFM, put it best: “I continue to be amazed by the extremely talented musicians we have in Annapolis. And more than that, the women that are paving the way for the younger musicians. I’ve met so many women musicians in Annapolis, and we all sincerely care about one another and each other’s families.”
AMFM is a nonprofit that provides financial support to professional musicians in times of need, and it is one of the many ways this town backs the people who keep its stages alive.
So if you hear a bassline drifting down Main Street, follow it. Grab a drink, find a seat, and enjoy the show. And if you need a place to start, check out our playlist below for a few songs that are getting stuck in our heads in the best possible way.
ANNAPOLIS AMPLIFIED PLAYLIST
“Without Me” by Laura Brino
“Promise to You Forever” by MIGGS
“Island Time” by Bumpin’ Uglies
“Interview” by Grilled Lincolns
“Brunch” by Davonne D Neil
“Summer Song” by Doug Segree
“Baltimore Marilyn” by Dean Rosenthal
“Electric Love” by Honey Sol
Do Not Miss List