WMV is a musician community, primarily based online, that helps independent artists to thrive in Wisconsin – although in 2026 we are shifting to work toward a broader collective. We’d like YOU to consider being one of the first bigger artists from beyond our typical circles to work with the new WMV. What do you … More Join WMV Musician Membership
Original Post by WMV Intern Alyssa Proell Jody Peterson is a deeply thoughtful songwriter based in Oshkosh Wisconsin. I got to meet and discuss his perspective on the industry and his musicianship. Me: How did you hear or learn about Wisconsin Music Ventures? Jody: I think I saw it on Instagram. I think there was … More Spotlight of the Week: Jody Peterson
Original Post by WMV Intern Alyssa Proell Will K is a musician unbounded by music genres. His biggest influences include rock throughout the ages, with a blend of acoustic and electric styles. We got to chat over a zoom call and talked about his artistry. Me: How did you start working with WMV? Will: I … More Spotlight of the Week: Will Keizer
Original Post by WMV Intern Alyssa Proell Tom Riddle is a multi talented musician out of Milwaukee that is a backstage pass member of Wisconsin Music Ventures. I had the opportunity to sit down and meet with him in his electrifying record studio, Stories Studios. Me: Where are you originally from? Tom: So I was … More Spotlight of the Week: Tom Riddle
Original Post written by Ben Slowey Jenn Leo is a musician based in Milwaukee who primarily covers female singer-songwriters. She performs both solo and with duo Ben & Jenn. ME: How did you get involved with Wisconsin Music Ventures? JENN: Well, I met Allison when she was establishing a community handbell choir in Wauwatosa, so … More Spotlight of the Week: Jenn Leo
Original Post written by Ben Slowey Steven Smith is a singer-songwriter from Milwaukee. His current primary project is duo act Smith & Binder with fellow Wisconsin Music Ventures member Linda Binder. ME: How did you get involved with Wisconsin Music Ventures? STEVEN: I can’t remember where I saw it…it might have been Facebook…and it seemed … More Spotlight of the Week: Steven Smith
Original Post written by Ben Slowey Dusty Pockets is the solo project of Jeffrey Salczenko. Originally a jazz artist, he has been breaking into the Milwaukee music scene as a singer-songwriter the last few years. ME: How did you get involved in Wisconsin Music Ventures? JEFF: I have a mentor that had suggested it who … More Spotlight of the Week: Dusty Pockets
Original Post written by Ben Slowey David HB Drake is an artist who’s been called a “gentle troubadour” and an “elemental folk singer.” His music is inspired by Midwest journeys and culture, and he’s been performing for over fifty years. ME: How did you get involved with Wisconsin Music Ventures? DAVID: I have a very … More Spotlight of the Week: David HB Drake
Original Post written by Ben Slowey Jaqui JaFelle is a singer-songwriter who’s picked music back up after quite some time away from it. She’s now done three Tiny Desk Contests, one of which raising money for California-based organization Al Otro Lado. ME: How did you get started with Wisconsin Music Ventures? JAQUI: It’s kind of … More Spotlight of the Week: Jaqui JaFelle
Original Post written by Ben Slowey Steven J. White is a composer and multi-instrumentalist who has done scoring and sound design, working with both electronic and acoustic instruments. His solo album “Breath” is available on Bandcamp; he currently plays with acts Sindoolaa and Yves Francois as well. ME: How did you get involved with Wisconsin … More Spotlight of the Week: Steven White
