Music is one element of life that instantly connects people. It’s a universal language that uplifts spirits, produces laughter and creates endless memories. Toddlers instantly start bobbing and swaying their bodies when they are introduced to music. Thousands of people fill arenas for enjoyable concerts, and society loves to entertain the debate about which generation makes the best music. Overall, it is an essential part of everyday life, so if you’re curious about what the music scene looks like in Jax, continue reading to learn about local artists and bands making their mark on the music world.

Baba Caiman
What originally started as a group of friends creating music has now filled the Jacksonville streets with Latin Fusion for all. Baba Caiman was started in 2016 and offers a mix of fun and energetic beats. Sway your body to the rhythms of Pop, Reggaeton, Rock, and Bachata as lead singer Erika Weitz commands the room with her vocals. Follow them on Instagram @babacaiman

Bold City Classics
It wouldn’t be a Bold City Classics performance if it didn’t include “Current Sound / Classic Style.” Each vocalist has their own style, making them a versatile group fit for any occasion because they can cover various types of. They offer an extensive song list covering genres ranging from Country/Rock to 50s-60s Motown. The familial feeling shared amongst the members is a feeling that transcends to the audiences every performance. Follow them on Instagram @boldcityclassics

Caribe Groove
Wind your hips to the original tunes inspired by the four different cultural background of Caribe Grooves’ founding members; their Colombian, Venezuelan, Dominican, and Puerto Rican roots bring together a rhythmic flow of modern genres like Rock and hip-hop paired with Latin flair including Salsa, Merengue and Latin Jazz. Check out their newest single for 2021, “Rosas y Espinas.” Follow them on Instagram @caribegroove

Dancing with Ghosts
Josh Cannon and Stephanie Conner are the dynamic duo that completes Dancing with Ghosts. As an alternative rock/electronic band, they create music that not only is entertaining but also purposeful. Cannon and Conner are mental health advocates, and they like to display that in their music. Each show they perform they expect to provide their audience with visuals and feelings that allows them to break away from their everyday life. Follow them on Instagram @dancingwithghostsofficial

The Groove Coalition
“Ain’t no school like the old school” is the motto for this band that likes to keep things moving and grooving. Celebrating the melodies of Funk, Soul, Jazz, R&B, and Neo-Soul, The Groove Coalition is keeping music “simple, danceable and undeniably groovy.” With each performance, they strive to give their audience a memorable and distinct experience. They are best known for their tribute concert series including tributes to Chaka Kha, Mary J. Blige and Prince. Follow them on Instagram @groovecolalition 

Let’s Ride Brass Band
When a New Orleans brass band meets Duval, you get “That Duval Sound.” You are guaranteed to have a good time at any event when the Let’s Ride Brass Band is on the stage performing. This 11-piece ensemble is filled with young, talented musicians, creating a fusion of brass and Hip-Hop, Funk, and Jazz. You can’t help but feel the energy they are transmitting when they perform. Although they are an instrumental band, they do occasionally perform with guest vocalists. Follow them on Instagram @letsridebrassband 

Mama Blue
Whether it’s her voluminous curly afro with the signature flower she sports or her eccentric and soulful voice penetrating your spirit, when Mama Blue hits the stage, you can’t help but to be captivated by the “sultry sister of soul.” Her musical style is inspired by soul sisters like Aretha Franklin and Etta James to rock bands like Queen and The Rolling Stones. She brings warmth to any event she attends and loves to interact with her audiences. Follow her on Instagram @mamabluesings

Skyview
No newcomer to the Jax music scene, Skyview has been connecting music to space since 2007. This Indie space-rock band was influenced by ‘80s bands like Tears for Fears meets modern rock bands like The Killers. In 2019, their curiosity for NASA’s new Artemis program and commercial space race inspired the group to shift their musical perspective. The change of pace influenced Skyview to create a “skyward sound,” creating music about early space missions. Follow them on Instagram @skyview_music

The Katz Downstairs
A household name in Jacksonville, The Katz Downstairs have been providing a “unique sound that is an amalgamation of Hip Hop, Jazz and Neo Soul with an unmistakable Urban undertone” since 2011. They are renowned around town for setting the perfect grown-and-sexy atmosphere with their soulful vibes. Follow them on Instagram @thekatzdownstairz

Universal Green
Universal Green has you covered if you’re looking for a progressive hip-hop band to support. This six-member band creates unique sounds that reflect the diverse background of each of its members. Their music style includes rhythm and blues, reggae, rock and everything in between. Follow them on Instagram @theuniversalgreen_official