The White Lake area boasts a thriving music scene filled with talented artists who inspire and connect the community. CatchMark Community’s Local Musician Spotlight series has highlighted these incredible musicians over the past months, showcasing their unique journeys, influences, and contributions. Here’s a wrap-up of the artists who bring so much to the White Lake music community.
Penny Rushing: The Kipi Chick with a Passion for Connection
Penny Rushing, also known as “The Kipi Chick,” is a multi-talented musician whose unique blend of genres and heartfelt lyrics have made her a standout in the White Lake music scene. Drawing inspiration from blues, rock, and Americana, Penny’s performances are a journey of emotion and storytelling.
“My goal is to connect with people through music,” Penny shared. “If I can make someone feel something, I’ve done my job.”
Penny’s ability to balance raw emotion with technical skill has earned her a dedicated following. Whether performing solo or collaborating with other local artists, she continues to elevate the White Lake music scene with her talent and authenticity.
Local Musician Spotlight: Penny Rushing, The Kipi Chick
Dave Burel: A Passion for Storytelling Through Song
Dave Burel captivated us with his soulful storytelling and heartfelt performances. Drawing inspiration from classic rock, blues, and folk, Dave’s music creates a bridge between personal experience and universal emotions. As a seasoned performer, he emphasized the importance of authenticity in connecting with audiences.
“The music has to be real,” he shared, reflecting on his journey of self-expression through songwriting.
Local Musician Spotlight: Dave Burel
Eric and Karen Smith: A Harmonious Duo
Eric and Karen Smith brought us into their world of harmonized melodies and deep musical synergy. Their journey as a couple and musical duo showcased how personal connections can amplify creative expression. From local gigs to larger performances, Eric and Karen’s shared love for music has enriched their bond and the community alike.
“Music brings people together,” Karen noted, highlighting their commitment to fostering connection through their craft.
Local Musician Spotlight: Eric and Karen Smith
Tommy Foster: A Veteran Musician with a Heart for Mentorship
Tommy Foster’s career has spanned decades, yet his passion for performing and mentoring young musicians remains as strong as ever. Known for his bluesy guitar riffs and energetic stage presence, Tommy shared stories of his time touring and how his experiences have shaped his perspective.
“Music is a lifelong journey,” he said, encouraging others to embrace the ups and downs of the creative process.
Local Musician Spotlight: Tommy Foster
Delany Schultz: The Next Generation of Local Talent
Delany Schultz represented the bright future of White Lake’s music scene. A talented young artist, Delany blends modern influences with a fresh perspective, creating music that resonates with listeners across generations. Her enthusiasm and drive are a testament to the impact of community support on emerging artists.
“White Lake is a great place to grow as a musician,” she shared, expressing gratitude for the encouragement she’s received from fellow artists and fans.
Local Musician Spotlight: Delaney Schultz
Bryan Mahan: A Musician with a Heart for Community
Bryan Mahan, a member of the local band The Educators, exemplifies the power of passion, creativity, and community. Bryan’s musical journey began during his childhood in Kalamazoo, surrounded by the sounds of the Beach Boys and Barry Manilow. Though he started as a piano player, his path led him to the bass guitar, inspired by collaboration with fellow educators.
“I was teaching at Whitehall for almost 30 years,” Bryan shared. “We wanted an excuse to get out of class, so we created a concert. That’s how it started!”
Bryan’s dedication to music extends beyond performances. As part of The Educators, he plays to benefit local causes like food pantries, using his talent to give back.
“For us, it’s about having fun while helping people,” Bryan said.
From alternative bands like R.E.M. to country favorites like Zac Brown Band, Bryan’s influences reflect his versatility. His performances are known for their creative twists, such as adding kazoos to Hall & Oates covers or horns to Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead or Alive.”
“Our band is like Michigan weather—if you don’t like what you hear, wait five minutes,” Bryan joked.
Local Musician Spotlight: Bryan Mahan
A Thriving Music Community
The Local Musician Spotlight series revealed a common theme: the White Lake area is a haven for musical talent and creativity. From intimate brewery performances to community-wide events like Walk the Beat, the local music scene thrives on its diversity and support.
As Bryan Mahan put it, “This community is special. There’s so much to see and hear.” Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, White Lake’s music scene offers something for everyone.
Looking Ahead
As we wrap up this season of Local Musician Spotlight, we reflect on the incredible stories and talents within our community. From seasoned professionals to promising young artists, the musicians of White Lake remind us of the power of music to inspire and connect.
For those eager to stay in the loop about local performances, a great resource is the White Lake Music Review. It’s the perfect guide to discovering who’s playing where and keeping up with the vibrant music scene that makes White Lake so special.
Stay tuned to CatchMark Community as we continue to highlight the creativity and culture that make White Lake a remarkable place to live and create.
