Canopy + the Roots

CANOPY CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS with Jessica It's All Good Standup Comedy
2025-02-14 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | the Roots
Purchase Tickets HERE.
About Jessica:
“Jessica It’s All Good is a lady comedian from the South with a loud personality, no shame, and not a whole lot of inhibitions. She has rocked out places like The Comedy Zone, Laughing Skull Lounge, Uptown Comedy Club, MadLife Stage & Studios, Truman State University, Spartanburg Methodist College, State University of New York College at Geneseo, Emory University, and many more. In 2014 she won her first comedy competition and received the 1st place prize of The Rev’d Up Comedy Jam Contest. She went on to perform in other competitions and was a semi-finalist in the 2014 Atlanta’s Top Comic Comedy Contest. In 2015 she took her comedy special: “Memoirs of a Supermodel Princess Clown to The Complex Theatre in Hollywood, CA. In 2020, Jessica produced her new, race related, comedy special: “WE’RE ALL CHOCOLATE,” with the support of several donors. In 2021 it was nominated for “Mind-Blowing Comedy” For Comedic Writing Of The Year in the Writing/Adaptations category of The Young-Howze Theatre Awards. Whether she is traveling, performing locally, or online, Jessica keeps the energy high and the laughs flowing. Her comedy will go down in history as comedy for positivity and change, and she’ll keep it clean while on the way.”
The doors and speakeasy open at 7:00PM with show beginning at 7:30PM. Experience a performance in a venue like no other in our underground “speakeasy” listening room. Turn off your cell phones and be present to hear the stories behind the songs and writing of original artists. Limited seating. Craft beer and wine available.

The Time Machine, 90s Dance Party in the Roots
2025-02-13 20:00 - 23:00 | the Roots
Purchase Tickets HERE.
Celebrating Canopy’s 5-Year anniversary in style with a dance party in the heart of Roots – get ready to groove all night long!

Die Laughing Comedy presents multi-comic standup LIVE at Canopy + the Roots
2025-01-24 20:00 - 22:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
Dahlonega, GA! Die Laughing comedy comes to Canopy + The Roots showing off the best comedians from Atlanta. Don’t miss this once a month show hosted in the best speakeasy in north GA. Comedy shows feature comedians from The Laughing Skull Lounge. Punchline Comedy Club. Comedy Central. Don’t Tell Comedy. Late Night With Jimmy Fallon, HBO Max, Adult Swim, Dry Bar +, and more.

NEW YEARS EVE with Hughes Taylor + the band LIVE in the Roots
2024-12-31 21:00 - 2025-01-01 00:30 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.

An old soul hailing from Macon, Georgia, USA, Hughes Taylor was drawn to the blues the moment he picked up a guitar. Nearly two decades later, he’s established himself as an acclaimed guitarist and songwriter playing a fiery brand of blues-rock whose power trio lineage stretches back to Stevie Ray Vaughan, Cream and Jimi Hendrix.
His latest album, Dark Roast, released in May 2024, marks the first part of a larger project titled Roasted. Recorded remotely across multiple studios in Georgia and expertly mixed at Capricorn Sound Studios— the historic birthplace of Southern Rock—Dark Roast showcases Hughes’s evolution as a musician and songwriter. The songs on Dark Roast are filled with greasy guitar riffs, thundering drums, solid basslines, and Taylor’s expressive voice on top. The first single “Ballad of Big Bill McGuire” earned Hughes a Blues Blast Award nomination. The second part of Roasted, titled Light Roast, is set to release in early 2025, promising to further expand the narrative and sound of this ambitious blues rock project.
Hughes’s previous album, Modern Nostalgia, released in July 2021, showcases his signature guitar style and musical growth. Written during the pandemic and recorded at the iconic Capricorn Sound Studios, it seamlessly blends blues, blues-rock, and Southern rock, earning global acclaim and airplay. The album won the Atlanta Blues Society’s “Best Self Produced CD” award and received rave reviews from notable outlets including Blues Blast Magazine, Blues Matters Magazine, and more. It has also maintained a steady presence on the Roots Music Report charts for over 26 consecutive months. A limited-edition double LP was released on vinyl in June 2022.
Officially beginning his musical journey at age 12, Hughes dedicated countless hours in his bedroom to mastering his craft, playing alongside recordings of his guitar heroes. By 14, he was writing original material and recording demos in his parents’ basement while simultaneously developing his live act by playing anywhere, anytime, with anyone. He was already performing professionally before he could legally drive, and by 18 years old, music had become his primary source of income.
In spring 2016, he self-released his first full-length album, Hear My Melody. Restless followed in early 2018, sandwiched between graduating with honors from University of North Georgia and marrying the love of his life. By summer 2019, the Hughes Taylor Band had solidified its sound, merging his unique take on the blues-rock power trio format with the undeniable influence of his hometown heroes, the Allman Brothers. His 2019 album, Good Blues, Fast, which features lovingly arranged classics, garnered acclaim beyond Georgia and paved the way for the next chapter of his music journey.
In January 2020, Hughes and his band toured the UK, supporting the Heather Findlay Band. Their popularity surged, attracting positive reviews from music press, until the pandemic brought live performances to a halt. Fortunately, the final shows of that tour were recorded, leading to the release of Live in the UK on CD in early 2021.
With a dedication to authentic music that resonates across generations, Hughes Taylor continues to forge his path, blending traditional blues roots with contemporary influences and captivating audiences wherever he plays. Hughes and his band stay busy touring across the states in support of the new album, each performance a testament to his passion and dedication to the craft.
Intimately connect to both artist and venue in our lush, speakeasy-style, 100 seat listening room. Hear the stories behind the all-original songs as the artist(s) share their inspiration and even their heartaches.
Doors open at 9:00pm; show starts at 9:30pm; VIP lounge or balcony seating available by contacting events@canopyandtheroots.com . Locally-sourced craft beer and wine available for purchase.

a holiday celebration with BELLS & WHISTLES LIVE in the Roots
2024-12-20 19:30 - 21:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
With contemporary folk melodies evoking their Appalachian roots, brother/sister ensemble Bells & Whistles share songs with uplifting messages and a touch of melancholic themes. Their sibling harmonies and passionate strings create a soul song you won’t soon forget.
The doors and speakeasy open at 7:00PM with the show beginning at 7:30PM. Experience a performance in a venue like no other in our underground “speakeasy” listening room. Turn off your cell phones and be present to hear the stories behind the songs and writing of original artists. Limited seating. Limited seating. Contact events@canopyandtheroots.com to reserve your VIP table, couch, or booth.

Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas with the Solstice Sisters LIVE in the Roots
2024-12-14 19:30 - 21:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.

Join us for a Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas with The Solstice Sisters. Formed in 1994, these three friends, Maggie Hunter, Susan Staley and Anna Hiers harmonize old time country ballads, bluegrass, traditional folk and 40’s styled swing. Joining the Sisters are Mike Harrison on bass & banjo and Andy Carlson on fiddle, mandolin & guitar. Known not only for their lovely three part harmonies, but also for their spontaneous and engaging live shows.
They have 3 recordings, 2 of which are holiday themed, “Holiday Music From Around The World ” recorded in 1999 and “Maybe By Christmas” released in 2019. They have performed at many festivals in Northeast Georgia including Bear On The Square, North Georgia Folk Festival, and were regulars at the Mountain Music and Medicine Show, a live radio show taped at the Holly Theater in Dahlonega.

Intimately connect to both artist and venue in our lush, speakeasy-style, 100 seat listening room. Hear the stories behind the all-original songs as the artist(s) share their inspiration and even their heartaches.
Doors open at 7:00pm; show starts at 7:30pm; VIP lounge or balcony seating with table service available by contacting events@canopyandtheroots.com .

The S Show: Singers, Songwriters, and Storytellers Finale LIVE in the Roots
2024-12-13 19:30 - 21:30 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
Sign-Up and Rules HERE.

Join us on Friday, December 13th in the intimate speakeasy downstairs of Canopy & The Roots as we present The S Show: Singers, Songwriters, and Storytellers. Serving as the season finale to our Storyteller’s Open Mic Competition, Alias Patrick Kelly, Code Smith, Erinn Driscoll, Lucas Hussey, and Norm Hunt will take the stage, showcasing their original music “in a round,” and three winners will be chosen by a panel of judges plus the audience vote. Online tickets are $15, $20 at the door, and the show will start at 7:30PM with doors at 7PM. We look forward to seeing you there to support these upcoming indie artists. Sign-up is free and done exclusively online via Google forms to secure your slot. Sign-Up and Rules HERE.

Broken Cloud Machine and soup :: Garage Punk LIVE in the Roots
2024-12-07 20:00 - 22:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
Broken Cloud Machine is a garage punk band from Gainesville Georgia and multi-instrumentalist Calvin Truelove’s primary musical project. Starting out as a bedroom experiment using a 4-track cassette, Calvin began writing music under Broken Cloud Machine with their first record, “What Will the Moon Say?” released in 2018. The original lineup has changed over the years with Calvin’s spirituality and inspirations leading him into a harsher, rock-driven sound that demands attention. As Calvin puts it, “I never found God in the beginning but then I met the Devil. And after getting to know Satan personally, I decided whose side I wanted to be on. I don’t care if it’s not “cool” to be a Christian. Especially in the punk rock scene. My hatred of evil (including my own) overshadows the stigma of christianity that previously kept me from identifying with it. If people feel like God hates them, or have no self-worth, or that they are too “unholy” for God, then my music might just be for them. We accept everyone, not just the people who fit agendas. Exactly how Jesus Christ does!”
soup (styleized undewrcase) is a garage rock trio from Cochran Georgia founded by Kooper Hill (guitar and vocals) and Sam Holloway (drums) in 2022 and accompanied by Kaleb McGuire (bass guitar) since September 2024. Their recent debut EP “Homestyle Chicken Soup” sheds light on their heavy avant-garde influences such as Osees, Radiohead, and the early grunge movement. Showcasing their ability to create catchy distorted riffs with pop sensibilities; soup is hard-hitting and emotionally honest.

Doors open at 7:30pm; show starts at 8:00pm; VIP lounge or balcony seating with table service available by contacting events@canopyandtheroots.com .

James Corbin : Country-Americana LIVE in the Roots
2024-12-06 18:30 - 20:30 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.

James Corbin is a combat veteran, storyteller, and prolific songwriter. He released four albums “Dichotomy,” “Dahlonega Days,” and “Live From the Hoag Auditorium” while in college. Shortly after 9/11 and graduation, he went into the U.S. Army as where he deployed to Iraq three times. Those combat tours were the impetus behind his record, “From Baghdad to Bisbee” which comprised songs he wrote while there.
“Where the Roots Raise the Road” was released in 2024 and is another great collection of witty, challenging, and authentic songs about life, love, loss, and our place in this world.”
“James is a captivating performer. He is a master at engaging a crowd and drawing them in. His songs move you to tears. They also make you laugh hysterically. Most importantly, they always make you feel more human and understood. A live show with James is a true experience into the mind, heart, and humor of a truly gifted storyteller.” Molly Kummerle, critically acclaimed DJ, vocalist, and jazz artist.

Intimately connect to both artist and venue in our lush, speakeasy-style, 100 seat listening room. Hear the stories behind the all-original songs as the artist(s) share their inspiration and even their heartaches.
Doors open at 6:00pm; show starts at 6:30pm; VIP lounge or balcony seating with table service available by contacting events@canopyandtheroots.com .

Roots in the Round, multi-songwriter feature LIVE at Canopy + the Roots
2024-11-23 19:30 - 21:30 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
Join us on Saturday, November 23rd for the final Roots in the Round of 2024 as Danielle McLean, Freeman Leverett and Perfect Animal will be taking the stage sharing their respective journeys through song and the stories behind them in Dahlonega’s most intimate musical spaces. Doors at 7:00pm and Show at 7:30pm.
Danielle McLean With the mantra of “Sing, Dance, Love, and Live,” Peach State-based songstress Danielle McLean has set many stages ablaze with her powerful yet soulful voice and uncanny stage presence from her days with the Atlanta Institute of Music as a student to many venues throughout metro-Atlanta. With influences from the likes of Joni Mitchell, Alanas Morrissette, Zach Bryan, Danielle has emerged as one of the breakout local artists within the last few years since her solo debut “Best Friends for Life” to her most recent release, “Slowly Killing Me.” Danielle continues to be an artist to watch in the indie music scene as her music and performances brings nothing but Love, Laughter, and Light to all.
Freeman Leverett Composer and producer Freeman Leverett crafts exuberant and dreamy compositions with unforgettable melodies and heartfelt lyrics, celebrating the bittersweet nature of life and love and delivered through timeless vocals shining above an unrelenting rhythmic sound. Recently featured in the Flagpole Athens Music Highlights of 2023, Freeman has emerged as a uniquely captivating artist whose sincere and hypnotic performances have been transporting audiences and inspiring carefree dancing and loving celebration.Owing to over a decade of dedicated collaboration in local and international music scenes, Freeman draws on a rich tapestry of inspiration including Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, George Harrison, Caetano Veloso, Marvin Gaye, A.R. Rahman, Kahauanu Lake, and I Gusti Komin Darta. The Athens-based composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist has also performed in countless local and internationally touring groups such as Convict Julie, Floral Portrait, Bichos Vivos, Muuy Biien, Chandra Natha, Aquatic Soul, Delorean Gray, David Newman and more.He studies qawwali tabla in the Punjab gharana with Aminah Chishti (Fanna-Fi-Allah), in the lineage of legendary Dildar Hussain (Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan) and Allah Rakha Qureshi (Ravi Shankar). Freeman is also a student of Balinese gamelan master I Gusti Komin Darta (Çudamani) in the styles of Gong Kebyar and Gender Wayang, and was the instructor of the Gong Kebyar ensemble of the University of Georgia.Freeman also regularly produces music for a variety of productions in film, theater, visual art and performance art, working with creative entities such as Primetime Theater Fest, The Athens for Everyone Podcast, and St. Martin-Reyes Productions.
Perfect Animal is an Atlanta-based indie rock band embracing both acoustic and electric music. Currently promoting songs off their recently-released debut LP, “Soft Applause,” Perfect Animal can suit any environment and always make an emotional impact on the listener.

Lauren Anderson and Amber Sweeney: Rock n' Roll with soul LIVE in the Roots
2024-11-22 19:30 - 21:00 | the Roots
Get tickets HERE.
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3AoeCSG1zkka1T0WO3dPUJ
LAUREN ANDERSON performed a livestream from Nashville for Canopy + the Roots during the shelter-in-place and joins us again for her third show and a new release, “Stand Still”.
Lauren Anderson isn’t shy about sharing her influences. Indeed, there have been any number of classic and contemporary artists that have left an indelible impression on the musical mantra she’s pursued over the course of her career — Bonnie Raitt, Etta James, Eva Cassidy, Nina Simone, Whitney Houston, Beyonce, and the Pointer Sisters, among them. Yet, at the same time, Anderson isn’t bound to any particular parameters. Instead she’s managed to incorporate those influences into a pursuit of her own passion. It’s a musical journey that continues to flourish, bringing her growing recognition as a celebrated singer and songwriter with her own contemporary credence.
That trajectory has accelerated rapidly over the course of the past seven years with the release of three EPs — Do & Hope, The Game and Won’t Stay Down — and her first full-length album, 2015’s Truly Me. In the meantime, the accolades have kept coming. She was named the 2015 Female Vocalist of the Year by the Midwest Music Awards, took a first-place finish in the 2018 Wing Dang Doodle Competition and watched with pride as The Game became entrenched in the Top 50 of the Billboard Blues chart five weeks in a row.
The press took notice as well. Blues Blast Magazine described said of her, “Lauren has a strong voice with touch of grit.” Rhythm & Booze noted that she has “ a fabulous powerhouse voice you can’t ignore.” Another publication noted: ”With one foot planted in the territory of her influences and the other pointed in an unexplored direction, she straddles the border between blues, soul, and guitar-driven rock & roll, finding her own sound somewhere in the middle.”
Meanwhile, Anderson’s expanded her following while continuing to reap that critical acclaim. A determined dynamo of a performer adept at both blues and ballads, she’s ready to add to those accolades with her upcoming album Love On the Rocks, her most fully realized effort to date. Self-produced and due for independent release this summer, it will be preceded by four singles slated to appear each month prior to the entire album’s appearance in August — “Stand Still” (April), “Back to Chicago” (May), “Holdin’ Me Down” (June), and “Love On the Rocks” (July). Each offering finds her expounding on the soulful, seductive style that allows her to break down the boundaries between rock, blues and classic R&B.
Not surprisingly then, the new album fully reflects her own singular sound, courtesy of a varied set of songs that mostly draw from her own experience. Seven of the nine tracks were written during the pandemic, when Anderson claims she wrote a song a day for three weeks in a row.
“Keep On,” the first of the singles, is a wailing and riveting gospel-sounding entry. It was accompanied by a music video that included stark images of the pandemic: https://youtu.be/dMkF04TOUSo.
She describes the stoic yet soulful “Stand Still” as a more Americana-sounding song, but the message resonates as well. “It’s about what it feels like when you’re stuck and not going anywhere,” Anderson says. “Still, that’s okay when you’re there with someone you love.”
Anderson calls “Love on the Rocks,” a co-write with Sandy Ramos and Laureen Smith, a true collaborative effort. “I came up with the chorus, but then I got stuck so I brought it to those two ladies and together we finished the song,” she recalls. “Ironically, this was the last song I chose to include on this album, and when the band and I went into the studio, we had yet to run through it together at that point. I wasn’t sure how it would sound with the full band, but as soon as everyone started jamming on it, it came alive. I chose to make it the title track, and it quickly became one of my favorite songs on the album.”
The subtle yet sensual “Holdin’ Me Down” falls under the category of a break-up song. “I sent my guys an acoustic version, and when we got together to run through it before going into the studio, Hutch, my bassist, came with this badass guitar part,” Anderson explains. “It really solidifies the soulful 90’s-sounding R&B vibe that the song seemed to call for.”
Other highlights include “Back to Chicago,” a performance that combines Anderson’s robust vocals and a sassy, soulful strut with some ripping fretwork from special guest and guitar great Mike Zito. “I’m Done” and “Just F***ing Begun” are propulsive rockers that allow the energy to soar into the stratosphere. On the other hand, the easy sway of “The Way I Want” and the resilient resolve implied by “Your Turn” help provide a decided shift in tone and tempo.
“This album is very true to me,” Anderson reflects. “I was trying to consciously choose songs for this album that worked well together. I definitely feel like I pulled from some of my seminal influences and was able to find them a fit on each of these tunes.”
More about Lauren Anderson:
It’s hardly surprisingly then that music has been a vital part of Anderson’s life since early on. Born in Chicago, her interests were nourished by a family where music played an important part. She first delved into it at the age of eight when she began taking classical piano lessons. That, in turn, led her to sing in a choir and eventually undertake classical voice training while still in high school. After attaining a bachelors degree in music, she earned a Masters Degree in Music Therapy from the University of Kansas.
Following her graduation in 2012, she became a music therapist, working with children and at-risk youth. Yet while she relished the experience, she began to realize that live performance was her true calling. She briefly considered becoming an opera singer, but quickly decided that the world of popular music was more suited to her style. At first she performed solo, but later she shared her talents with a band. Then, after recording a pair of singles at the iconic Ocean Way Studio’s on Nashville’s famed Music Row, she decided to make a permanent move from Kansas City to Music City in 2017. She now tours full time and continues to make music with an energy and enthusiasm that’s fully invested in the new album.
Amber Sweeney is an engaging singer-songwriter who enchants audiences with her soulful voice and heartfelt stories. Her music has been featured in popular TV shows like Queen Sugar, One Tree Hill, and Life Unexpected. Newly based in Nashville, she regularly performs with the Song Suffragettes, has been semi-finalist for Tennessee’s Songwriter Week, and is a two time semi-finalist for the International Songwriting Competition. Amber’s music empowers and captivates, leaving a lasting impact on listeners worldwide. For more: www.theambersweeney.com.
Amber Videos:Bluebird Cafe, Nashville: https://youtu.be/oZ7YbXfPVlY?si=2wYGkBb8UL3POcjzListening Room, Nashville: https://youtu.be/4gVpfx-y2lU?si=5IdQhiGW0LXXk02QMicrosoft Theater: https://youtu.be/pc22Tb7sRk0
Intimately connect to both artist and venue in our lush, speakeasy-style, 100 seat listening room. Hear the stories behind the all-original songs as the artist(s) share their inspiration and even their heartaches.
Doors open at 7:00pm; show starts at 7:30pm; balcony seating with table service available for add-on; table seating with limited availability on main floor. Locally-sourced craft beer and wine available for purchase.

BLUES BRUNCH : soul food + soul sounds LIVE in the speakeasy
2024-11-17 13:00 - 15:00, 2024-11-10 13:00 - 15:00 | the Roots
Purchase Tickets HERE.
Performance of sheer talent the Canopy HOUSE BAND consists of local and regional artists: Betsy Franck, Jess Franklin, Stephen Spivey, & Carlton Owens.
Dine and delight in the sounds and soul of BLUES music LIVE in our lush, speakeasy.
Uncommon and delicious menu exclusive from the executive chef at Montaluce Winery & Resturant; beer and wine, mimosa bar or bloody mary bar NOT included in general admission; these may be selected on-site.

BLUES BRUNCH : soul food + soul sounds LIVE in the speakeasy
2024-11-03 13:00 - 15:00 | the Roots
Purchase Tickets HERE.
Performance of sheer talent the Canopy HOUSE BAND consists of local and regional artists: Betsy Franck, Jess Franklin, Stephen Spivey, & Carlton Owens.
Dine and delight in the sounds and soul of BLUES music LIVE in our lush, speakeasy.
Menu exclusive from the chef at Public House, Dahlonega Catering & Events; beer and wine, mimosa bar or bloody mary bar NOT included in general admission; these may be selected on-site.

Die Laughing Comedy presents multi-comic standup LIVE at Canopy + the Roots
2024-10-25 20:00 - 22:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
Dahlonega GA! Die Laughing comedy comes to Canopy + The Roots showing off the best comedians from Atlanta. Don’t miss this once a month show hosted in the best speakeasy in north GA. Comedy shows feature comedians from The Laughing Skull Lounge. Punchline Comedy Club. Comedy Central. Don’t Tell Comedy. Late Night With Jimmy Fallon, HBO Max, Adult Swim, Dry Bar +, and more.

Vineyard Yoga at Montaluce.
2024-10-23 18:30 - 20:00, 2024-10-09 18:30 - 20:00, 2024-09-18 18:30 - 20:00 | the Roots
Stretch out your mat and quiet your chattering mind among the vines of Montaluce Winery & Vineyard. After our certified instructor-led gentle vinyasa flow class, each student can stay for a wine-tasting. Enjoy the blend of body/mind wellness and functional movement in a serene setting. The yoga practice is beginner-friendly and easily-modified.
Reserve your spot HERE.

Queendom Roots in the Round, multi-songwriter feature LIVE at Canopy + the Roots
2024-10-19 19:30 - 21:30 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
A unique take of the “Songwriters in a Round” Showcase to the Gold City as we present “Roots in the Round.” Join us on Saturday, October 19th as Brianna McGeehan, Cat Littlepage, Denise Richman, Doctor Deathray, and Lorraine will be coming together in the intimate speakeasy listening room, better known as The Roots, as they weave through their stories of success, heartache, and everything in between behind their songs with the strings of authenticity playing a melody that will bring it all together for an unforgettable listening experience. Doors at 7PM, Show at 7:30PM.

Brianna McGeehan – A little over a decade ago, Brianna McGeehan dropped out of the Music Therapy program at a small college in Portland. It was in part a protest over the firing of the program’s director but also because she realized she just wanted to perform. …you either have to or you don’t.
Born in Oregon to a music teacher father, she began studying music around age 6, playing piano then violin, but it was singing that captivated her most. Harmony was a revelation. McGeehan knew she’d spend the rest of her life doing it. Her music studies have taken her to as far reaching places as India and Tanzania.
She was influenced by a grab bag menagerie: Lauryn Hill, Radiohead, The Cranberries… Dad’s Beatles, Aunt Kitty’s Irish folk tapes. Growing up in the 90’s in the Pacific Northwest, grunge was one of the building blocks of a healthy musical diet, but rainy afternoons also lent themselves to Beethoven on the piano.
Brianna picked up the guitar in her early 20’s and started writing songs. Moved to New York and played some gigs. Got pregnant and had a baby, returned to Portland and became a single mom. She wasn’t about to quit music though, so she put a band together with some friends from the Music Therapy scene. She let that go to join forces with Drew de Man – now her husband and musical partner – and the two formed a band, calling it Pretend Sweethearts. They spent the next few years touring the US and Europe playing their version of Americana, that was as poetic and political as it was spiritual. “Heart Hunters’ music might sound delicate on first listen, but it packs a heavy punch.” – No Depression
The pandemic kept her off the road, and almost off the stage entirely, while she and her man raised their two kids together and put their energy into community organizing. Now she’s got a whole new crop of solo material and it’s something of a departure from the old Americana sound. “I call it anti-americana,” she says. The new record is a realization of the vision she’s had since those first days in New York – a cocktail of powerful vocals and synth strings, traditional instruments and electronic beats and loops.
McGeehan has shared the stage with the likes of Allison Russell and Peter Case. Her voice – effortlessly powerful and delicately beautiful – resounds with the talent of a genius and the skills honed in rigorous vocal training. She is an activist and community organizer who feels called to do social justice work through music. She just might change the world. When you hear that voice, she’ll surely change yours.

Cat Littlepage – Born in 1996, Catherine is a lifelong Vocalist who had her start in Pre-K and Church Choruses consistently throughout 3-17 years of age in South Georgia and Rural Minnesota. She had a few instrumental seasons by age 12 in school bands, playing Alto Saxophone, Flute, and Violin. Throughout High School, she participated in multiple school Choirs every year, Womens’ Barbershop and Musical/One-Act Theater, as well as two seasons of Show Choir Camp at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota. In her early twenties, she kick started her career as an independent working musician, teaching herself Ukulele (Soprano & Baritone) and Guitar with her own solo act as well as collaborating with Artists and Bands around greater Atlanta and Athens.
Catherine strives to pass on her refined vocal disciplines. As well as help her students understand and harness their unique voices. Specializing in Vocal Lessons, she will also be teaching Intermediate Soprano and Baritone Ukulele, Intermediate Guitar, and Basic Piano.

Denise Richman – Hailing from Roswell, GA, Denise Richman has arrived in the local music scene bringing in her own unique Southern vibe inspired by the Folk & Rock artists such as Tracy Chapman, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Patty Griffin, and more.

Doctor Deathray – Rad music for rad folks. Coming out of Ellijay, GA, Doctor Deathray brings her musical prowess and audio production abilities to the world!

Lorraine – Atlanta-based singer-songwriter Lorraine tells her stories of Life’s ups and downs in the hopes to inspire others through her words of loss, hope, and Love.

Artist Contacts
Brianna – briannamcgeehan@gmail.com
Cat – cathlittlepage@gmail.com
Denise – denisebanner@ymail.com
Violet – doctordeathray@analogrevolution.com
Lorraine – lfo0621@gmail.com

Comedy Competition presented by Die Laughing Comedy
2024-10-04 20:00 - 22:00, 2024-08-02 20:00 - 22:00 | the Roots

Laura Murren and Paris Ymani : FOLK songwriters LIVE in the speakeasy
2024-09-28 19:30 - 21:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
Laura Murren
Laura was born in Atlanta in 1986. She’s been writing stories and poetry since the age of 10. A storyteller by nature, Laura Murren’s lyrics always cut to the heart of the matter, while her powerful vocals propel the listener into emotional highs and lows they may not have yet experienced. Her music mostly explores love and addiction, self-awareness, and always seeks to illuminate the truth, be that truth beautiful or ugly, right or wrong, comforting or painful. Her style is quite hard to place, and has proved to be unique to the listeners’ experience, pulling out the nuances that speak to them in their moment from the melting pot of influences that come from being a musician who loves all the music this world has to offer.

Paris Ymani

Paris Ymani is a Midwest born/ATL based R&B Soulful songstress with a New Orleans style gumbo of musical influences ranging from Soul Music Royalty Ella Mai, Rihanna, and Alicia Keys to her own siblings as they have performed together since they were young. Paris first arrived on the scene as a featured artist on LoveOfPharaoh’s “Headliner, Vol. 2” (2022), but took center stage in 2023 with the holiday track “Winter Warm” & her official introduction to the world with “Stand My Ground.” Although she released her latest single “Pause the Moment” in early 2024, her momentum hasn’t paused at all with her hauntingly beautiful lyrics and passionately soulful voice captivating audiences all over the Peach State from Dahlonega, Athens, Loganville and of course Atlanta just to name a few. While she continues to stand her ground, Paris Ymani has indeed become one of the breakout artists with more to come.
Every artist plays a small stage; come catch these songs in the most intimate and lush of listening rooms.

Stand-Up Comedy presented by Die Laughing Comedy
2024-09-27 20:00 - 22:00, 2024-08-23 20:00 - 22:00 | the Roots

Storytellers OPEN MIC with host Akeeme Martin: LIVE in the Roots
2024-09-20 19:30 - 21:30 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
Sign-Up and Rules HERE.

Every 3rd Friday of the month, Canopy & the Roots opens up their speakeasy to any and all singers-songwriters to bring their best in a supportive space of local music as C+R presents the Storyteller’s Open Mic Competition. Each act has up to 15 minutes to showcase two of their original songs, and two winners will be chosen at the end of the night by a panel of judges plus the audience vote. Sign-up is free and done exclusively online via Google forms to secure your slot.

Every artist plays a small stage; come catch these songs in the most intimate and lush of listening rooms.

Faithless Town : Americana from ATL LIVE in the Roots
2024-09-14 19:30 - 21:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
Faithless Town is an Americana rock band from Atlanta, GA. Funded by fans through a successful crowdfunding campaign, their first full-length album, American Refugee (2012) featured the single, “Ghosts Of My Hometown”, which received FM radio play throughout the American Southeast. Their sophomore album, Empires, featuring the singles “California Come Home” & “New World Order” was released by Spectra Records in 2020.
2022’s Into The Light Vol.1, the first part of a two part album, featured the singles “What I’m Dreaming Of”, “Live Free”, & “Coal Mining Man” and received critical acclaim.
“Bride” is the lead single from Faithless Town’s new EP, Into The Light Vol.2, which was released in April 2023. It is a lively, romantic track featuring a cheerful duet with Leora Joy Perrie of the Canadian folk duo Winsome Kind. Set to the vibrant jangle of a ukulele, and propelled forward by joyous “heys”, the song boasts an infectious chorus that just might make it the catchiest tune of the year and 2023’s go-to wedding song.
Faithless Town’s portfolio boasts some of the most famous stages in the country, including The Whisky a Go Go and The Viper Room. They have supported acts such as Chris Knight, Graham Colton, The Band Camino, and Jake Clemons of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band.
Packed with powerful vocals, driving rhythms, and infectious hooks, Into The Light Vol. 2 is an absolute must-listen for fans of alternative rock and alt-country with a folk twist. The album is available on all digital platforms.

Friday Jazz Series in the speakeasy w/Julia Nyunt and Freeman Leverett
2024-09-13 19:30 - 21:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets here.

Brought to the Roots monthly, we present Friday Jazz at C+R. This is the first of many blues-jazz showcases in the speakeasy that will both memorize your ears and help you rethink what you thought you knew about jazz. Sponsored by the Dahlonega Jazz Festival. Featured this evening is:

Julia Nyunt
Julia Nyunt’s music is a rich tapestry woven from indie rock, folk, jazz, fusion, soul, and R&B, blending both retro and modern elements. In her voice and soundscapes, you might catch echoes of Ella Fitzgerald, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, D’Angelo, Emily King, AC Newman, Blake Mills, and FORAGER, among others.

Despite the eclectic nature of her influences, she seamlessly synthesizes them, creating a cohesive narrative voice that guides her audience through the multifaceted exploration of what it means to be human.

Freeman Leverett
Composer and producer Freeman Leverett crafts exuberant and dreamy compositions with unforgettable melodies and heartfelt lyrics, celebrating the bittersweet nature of life and love and delivered through timeless vocals shining above an unrelenting rhythmic sound. Recently featured in the Flagpole Athens Music Highlights of 2023, Freeman has emerged as a uniquely captivating artist whose sincere and hypnotic performances have been transporting audiences and inspiring carefree dancing and loving celebration.

Owing to over a decade of dedicated collaboration in local and international music scenes, Freeman draws on a rich tapestry of inspiration including Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, George Harrison, Caetano Veloso, Marvin Gaye, A.R. Rahman, Kahauanu Lake, and I Gusti Komin Darta. The Athens-based composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist has also performed in countless local and internationally touring groups such as Convict Julie, Floral Portrait, Bichos Vivos, Muuy Biien, Chandra Natha, Aquatic Soul, Delorean Gray, David Newman and more.

He studies qawwali tabla in the Punjab gharana with Aminah Chishti (Fanna-Fi-Allah), in the lineage of legendary Dildar Hussain (Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan) and Allah Rakha Qureshi (Ravi Shankar). Freeman is also a student of Balinese gamelan master I Gusti Komin Darta (Çudamani) in the styles of Gong Kebyar and Gender Wayang, and was the instructor of the Gong Kebyar ensemble of the University of Georgia.

Freeman also regularly produces music for a variety of productions in film, theater, visual art and performance art, working with creative entities such as Primetime Theater Fest, The Athens for Everyone Podcast, and St. Martin-Reyes Productions.

SERAPHYM & Mile From Meadow, alternative music LIVE in the Roots
2024-08-24 19:00 - 21:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.

Seraphym – is an alternative 90’s-inspired band from Snellville, GA known for emotional lyrics & melodies, specializing in playing originals, overall sound driven by low ends & haunting melodies that produce a unique sound and creating a great atmosphere for any and all stages.

Mile From Meadow are a three-piece band from Monroe, Georgia, who enjoy writing and performing original songs with an emphasis on lyrical hooks and instrumental tone. We also perform cover songs that compliment our sound.

Back to School with C+R
2024-08-12 08:00 - 2024-08-16 17:00 | Canopy + the Roots
Enjoy a 20% discount off your beverages or show tickets by showing your student ID.

Queendom Roots in the Round, multi-songwriter feature LIVE at Canopy + the Roots
2024-07-27 19:00 - 21:00 | the Roots
Purchase tickets HERE.
A unique take of the “Songwriters in a Round” Showcase to the Gold City as we present “Roots in the Round.” Join us on Saturday, July 27th as Nancy Heiges, December Ivey, Lilith Jenovax, Laura Murren, and Collette Whittemore will be coming together in the intimate speakeasy listening room, better known as The Roots, as they weave through their stories of success, heartache, and everything in between behind their songs with the strings of authenticity playing a melody that will bring it all together for an unforgettable listening experience. Doors at 7PM, Show at 7:30PM.
Nancy Heiges – Athens, GA based singer-songwriter inspired by the sounds of folk, jazz & blues, weaving her lyrics based on life experiences of her own and her community. She released her debut full-length Songs of Love & Longing in 2024.
December Ivey – December Ivey is an internationally recognized R&B/Soul with a hint of Pop singer that has a repertoire of aural selections that is guaranteed to make you feel, make you think, and make you dance.
Lilith Jenovax – Lilith Jenovax is a 28-year-old multifaceted artist that is skilled in photography, modeling, music, acting, writing, and creating conceptual pieces.
Before obtaining her bachelor’s degree in psychology, she studied as an art major, going on to pursue her own as a full time freelance artist. She has been published multiple times as a model, both nationally and internationally, has been nationally published as a photographer, and she has acted in award winning films and creative short films. In 2021, she released her full length freshman album ‘Only Temporary’. She has exceptional skills in professional editing, posing, composition, writing, and design, and continues to research and perfect her craft in multiple avenues. Her services are desired by anyone needing portrait or event work, portfolio development, promotional pieces, vocal tracks, writing content, acting, or modeling for a product or an artist’s vision.
Laura Murren – Georgia-based singer/songwriter & comedienne Laura Murren brings her unique brand of storytelling through her powerhouse vocals & passionate songs of Love, Heartache and everything in between.
Collette Whittemore – Celestial poetess Collette Whittemore weaves her words inspired by her upbringings in the Sunshine State of Florida in order to stitch together a tapestry intending to inspire that one can rise from it all and burn brighter than ever before. Her debut Mnemophobia is a conglomerate of intense emotions like Rupi Kaur’s poetry and with a dash of intriguing metaphors like Sabrina Benaim’s Depression and other Magic Tricks. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, you won’t want to put this book down as you traverse through topics such as abuse, alcoholism, anxiety, depression, and heartbreak and then shift into an uplifting spirit of confidence and self worth.
