The Making Music Making Change Community Showcase celebrates Northwest Arkansas artists who are using their music to heal, inspire and unify their community. This multi-genre event features an exciting lineup of innovative musicians including, Ashytn Barbaree, Al “Papa Rap” Lopez and Eddie Canyon – with special guest Monsterboy LIVES and an opening DJ set from Robyn Jordan.
Hosted by national nonprofit Music to Life (founded by Noel Paul Stookey of the 60’s folk trio Peter, Paul & Mary) and the Arkansas Music Office as part of Arkansas Music Week, with support from Harper House Music Foundation and the Levitt Foundation, and special thanks to Prairie Street Live, the Music Education Initiative, Startup Junkie, CACHE, and Music Cities Events.
Doors open at 7:30. DJ begins at 8:10. Music begins at 8:30. Location: Prairie Street Live.
Meet the Artists:
Ashtyn Barbaree: Arkansas-based Americana singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. The 2025 Arkansas Country Music Awards’ Americana Artist of the Year, Ashtyn is known for her ethereal vocals and heartfelt blend of Folk, Alt-Country, and Americana.
Al “Papa Rap” Lopez: Puerto Rican-born, award-winning musician and performer living in Northwest Arkansas. He uses his bilingual Salsa Rap songs to unite people, performing with his 8-piece band, ArkanSalsa, at a variety of events.
Eddie Canyon: Arkansas-based Hip Hop artist. Drawing from his Southern roots, Eddie’s music explores themes of addiction, spirituality, and social commentary, aiming to leave his audience with a liberating sense of thoughtfulness.
Robyn Jordan: An interdisciplinary creative and experience producer from Northwest Arkansas with over 20 years of experience in live music, art, and entertainment. As the founder of Her Set, Her Sound, she creates works that celebrate the contributions of Black women and gender-inclusive individuals in the creative industries.
Monsterboy LIVES (Veronica Wirges): A multi-instrumentalist who creates pop, indie, and alt music with her partner in the project Monsterboy LIVES. She also founded the Arkansas Music Office, a resource hub for musicians in her home state, with a mission to help artists build sustainable careers.