Celebrating Local Music, Community, and Creative Changemakers
If you’re in Northwest Arkansas this September and love discovering new music, Arkansas Music Week is your chance to immerse yourself in two nights of incredible live performances, community, and inspiration — all happening at Prairie Street Live in Fayetteville.
Music to Life Presents: Making Music Making Change
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Prairie Street Live, 509 W Prairie St, Fayetteville
Doors 7:30 PM | DJ Set 8:10 PM | Live Music 8:30 PM
Free Event – Sign-Up Link in Description
This evening kicks off with the Musician Changemaker Accelerator (MCA) Workshop, where up to 15 local artists will explore how to use their music to create positive change in the community.
Following the workshop, the Making Music Making Change Community Showcase will feature a dynamic multi-genre lineup of Northwest Arkansas musicians who are using their music to heal, inspire, and unify the community:
- Ashtyn Barbaree – 2025 Arkansas Country Music Awards’ Americana Artist of the Year, known for her ethereal vocals and heartfelt blend of Folk, Alt-Country, and Americana.
- Al “Papa Rap” Lopez – Puerto Rican-born performer whose bilingual Salsa Rap brings people together. He performs with his 8-piece band, ArkanSalsa.
- Eddie Canyon – Arkansas-based Hip Hop artist exploring themes of addiction, spirituality, and social commentary.
- Robyn Jordan – Founder of Her Set, Her Sound, celebrating Black women and gender-inclusive creatives in music and art.
- Monsterboy LIVES – A husband-and-wife indie duo blending electronic textures and soulful grooves.
Hosted by the national nonprofit Music to Life (founded by Noel Paul Stookey of the iconic 60s folk trio Peter, Paul & Mary), the Arkansas Music Office, and supported by Harper House Music Foundation, Levitt Foundation, and local partners including Prairie Street Live, Music Education Initiative, Startup Junkie, CACHE, and Music Cities Events, this night promises to be inspiring and powerful.
Two days later, the celebration continues with the Arkansas Homegrown Showcase, highlighting some of the state’s most exciting emerging acts. Expect a night that feels like a mini music festival right in the heart of Fayetteville.
Arkansas Music Office Announces First-Ever Homegrown Showcase in Fayetteville
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — September 15, 2025 — The Arkansas Music Office is proud to present its very first Homegrown Showcase, bringing together some of the state’s most exciting independent artists for a night of live music and community connection. The event takes place at Prairie Street Live in Fayetteville, a beloved outdoor venue that delivers music festival energy right in the heart of the city.
The Homegrown Showcase reflects the mission of the Arkansas Music Office: to connect artists, talent buyers, and audiences while strengthening the state’s vibrant music ecosystem.
Featured Artists:
- Buckshot Princess — outlaw goth alt-country from Little Rock, blending post-punk grit with dark Americana flair.
- Monsterboy LIVES —Husband-and-wife indie project featuring massive saxophones and soulful vocals.
- Roll Cage Mary — storytelling folk project from the Arkansas-Oklahoma border inspired by regional history and resilience.
- Madaline Collins Duo — Fayetteville newcomers bringing dynamic rock vocals, piano-driven melodies, and electric guitar firepower.
Sponsors
Arkansas Music Office has been able to be a presence in NWA for Arkansas Music week thanks to the generous support from our sponsors –Saracen Casino Resort, Tara Tinker Ink, Rock Town Distillery, B.E.A.R. Creative, V-Star Salon and Massage, and Equine Consultations.
Arkansas Homegrown Showcase
Friday, September 19, 2025 Prairie Street Live, Fayetteville
7:00 – 11:00 PM General Admission $9–10
Event link: For more information about the Arkansas Music Office and its work to support musicians and the communities that champion them, visit www.arkansasmusicoffice.com.
Why You Should Go
Together, these two events celebrate the full spectrum of Arkansas’s creative power — from social impact songwriting to high-energy showcases. They bring together musicians, community leaders, fans, and music industry partners for a week that’s all about connection, inspiration, and celebration.
- Be Part of a Movement: Both nights highlight artists who aren’t just making music — they’re shaping culture.
- Experience Variety: From hip hop to folk, salsa rap to alt-country, the diversity of genres means there’s something for every listener.
- Support Local Artists: Your presence, your cheers, and your merch purchases help local music thrive.
Make It a Week of Music
With Arkansas Music Week running September 14–21, 2025, these events are just part of a growing movement to make Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas a hub for live music and creative entrepreneurship.
Pro Tip: Arrive early, dress for a cool September night, and stay to connect with artists and fellow music lovers after the shows.
