Aaron Lee Tasjan + Madeleine Kelson

Aaron Lee Tasjan is a genre-bending singer-songwriter whose work weaves together elements of rock, country, pop, and glam with sharp, literary lyricism and an infectious sense of melody. Based in Nashville, Tasjan has earned widespread critical acclaim for albums like Silver Tears, Karma for Cheap, and Tasjan! Tasjan! Tasjan!, establishing himself as one of the city’s most inventive and prolific artists. His music channels the spirit of artists ranging from Tom Petty and Big Star to Harry Nilsson and T. Rex, yet remains unmistakably his own—warm, playful, and deeply felt.

Before launching his solo career, Tasjan cut his teeth as a guitarist and collaborator, performing with acts such as the New York Dolls, Drivin’ N’ Cryin’, and the legendary Leon Russell. As an openly queer artist in the Americana world, he has been a vocal advocate for inclusivity and authenticity, using his platform to expand the genre’s boundaries while honoring its roots. His live performances are known for their energy, wit, and effortless charm, and his work has been championed by outlets like Rolling Stone, NPR, and the Nashville Scene.

Madeleine Kelson is a Nashville-based Americana artist who draws from a rich tradition of folk, country, and Americana while challenging its boundaries as a queer artist representing the modern world. Her musical journey began during her high school years in Chicago as part of the band The Kelson Twins, playing notable venues including House of Blues and Thalia Hall and landing a top Daytrotter Session with Paste Magazine. She later relocated to Music City to pursue a solo career.

Inspired by artists like Patty Griffin, Jason Isbell, and Brandi Carlile, Kelson brings dynamic, down-to-earth storytelling and rich vocals to her work—qualities that led NPR to name her one of ten Nashville artists on the rise. After arriving in Nashville, she won the 2017 International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) Songwriter Showcase, and in 2018 released her acclaimed solo debut Siren, an introspective five-song EP featuring clean, melodic vocals backed by elegant countermelodies on violin. Praised for its genre-defying, sparse style and emotional richness, Siren earned Kelson comparisons to both Amos Lee and Gillian Welch.