The Stage

Announcing the performance lineup the Chesterfield Freedom Festival 2024

There’s little question that humans are wired for music. There is something about music that seems to bring us closer to each other and help us come together as a community. Come celebrate with your family, friends and neighbors at the Chesterfield Freedom Festival!

Each band will play about 50 minutes, depending on the size/set up of the next band. A HUGE THANK YOU to this year’s bands for providng their time and talents!

Performer Bios

MACKENZIE ROARK

Mackenzie Roark is a Virginia-based singer-songwriter. Drawing inspiration from classic country, 70’s folk, and good ol’ fashioned rock and roll, she crafts poignantly introspective and authentic songs that highlight a deep fluency in the reflection on everyday life. Her lyrically rich storytelling is heavily inspired by the likes of Townes and Loretta, but is coupled with that punch-in-the-gut girl power energy, drawn from artists like Shania Twain and Sheryl Crow. Her debut album, “Rollin’ High, Feelin’ Low” came out in 2022 via Vocal Rest Records. She is often backed by her band, the Hotpants, and has shared stages and bills with with Daniel Donato, Emily Nenni, Sarah Shook and the Disarmers, John R. Miller, the Hackensaw Boys, Caitlin Krisco and the Broadcast, and Julianna Riolino, among many others. Mackenzie Roark and the Hotpants has participated in Bristol Rhythm and Roots (2023), the 30A Songwriters Festival (2024), and has also been selected to compete in Floydfest’s 2024 On-the-Rise competition.

SCHOOL OF ROCK

School of Rock Midlothian brings to the stage local young artists all with a passion for music. These students will perform a variety of rock and roll songs. These musicians meet for at least two hours a week to hone their craft and perfect the sound you hear on stage.
School of Rock is an enthusiastic growing community dedicated to enriching lives through performance music education. We teach bass guitar, drums, guitar, keyboards, and vocals. Through the combination of individual lessons and group rehearsals we give our students the opportunity to learn music, be part of a great community of those who love music and learn to shine. Our performance aged students get to use their newfound skills every few months when we head to a venue and put on a real rock show! School of Rock also has programs for our younger students. Little Wings (4- and 5-year-olds) and Rookies (6- and 7-year-olds) learn music in a weekly group setting. It is here they begin to develop the foundations for a lifelong passion by learning fundamental music concepts. Our next group is Rock 101 (8 to 11 years old) This group is a beginner performance-based program. These students are just starting to determine what instrument they want to learn and then the initial dynamics of being in a band. Our Performance Group (12 to 18 years old not yet graduated from high school) participate in weekly individual lessons and then band rehearsal where they practice the set list of their themed upcoming show.
Adults – don’t feel left out! We have a spot for you too. Our “Grad School” is for those over 18 who want to either learn or continue their music journey.
Visit us at midlothian.schoolofrock.com or call us at 804-905-7625 to sign up for a Tour and Trial Experience to see what a difference music makes!

PATSY & THE COUNTRY CLASSICS

Patsy & the Country Classics was created in February of 2012. Made up of seasoned musicians, who love playing country music, Patsy & the Country Classics has filled a niche in the traditional country music genre. The band now consists of Patsy Hockaday, Michael Hockaday, Ray Sydnor, Don Whitlock, Jon Voth and Jenny Davis with David Hooker running sound. After being together for only two months, they were given the honor of playing for Brian Strobel’s Memorial Benefit Concert. The response was overwhelming, not only from the community, but from the other musicians that were there as well. A few months later, Patsy wrote a script of Patsy Cline’s life, and interwove other female country artists that were influenced by Patsy, within the show. They played the show to a full house and received a standing ovation. Not only has music been an important part of each band member’s life, but it’s also a passion, and that is evident when Patsy & the Country Classics perform. Their first CD, “Now Appearing, Patsy & the Country Classics”, and third CD, “The Promise” has won the Traditional Country Music Association’s 2014 Traditional Country Music CD of the Year, and 2018 Classic Country Gospel CD of the Year, respectively. (The second CD “Living the Dream” was also recognized by the Traditional Country Music Association as well, with all three CDS given very positive reviews). So whether it is a Patsy Cline Show, or a good night of dancing, the band is enjoying a wonderful ride, and they are taking anyone who appreciates their music with them, and could not be more grateful for the opportunity!
Patsy had the honor of performing for Patsy Cline’s mother and sister at an awards show in Fredericksburg VA several years ago and received a standing ovation. It is a cherished memory she will never forget. She does not attempt to sound like Patsy Cline, nor could she. Patsy Cline was one of a kind. But what she does hope to do is show you some of Patsy Cline’s heart in her interpretation of Patsy’s songs. She truly pays tribute to the great Patsy Cline and is blessed to have some of the best musicians in the area as part of the band.

SLYTHER

Slyther, a dynamic 70’s era rock band, emerged onto the music scene in 2010 with a fiery passion for captivating audiences. Drawing inspiration from the golden age of rock and roll, Slyther infuses their own unique rock styles into their performances, making cover songs truly their own.

Since their formation, Slyther has undergone a revitalizing transformation, welcoming new talented members who bring fresh energy and creativity to the band. With their combined expertise and dedication, Slyther is set to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.

Known for their electrifying stage presence, Slyther takes their audience on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing world of rock music. Their powerful vocals, blazing guitar solos, and pulsating rhythms create an atmosphere that transports fans back to the glory days of classic rock.

Having already conquered the East Coast, Slyther is ready to expand their reach and share their mesmerizing performances with audiences everywhere. From intimate venues to grand stages, their infectious energy and undeniable talent will have crowds rocking out and craving more.

Slyther’s commitment to excellence and their ability to make each song uniquely their own set them apart from the rest. They effortlessly breathe new life into beloved rock classics while staying true to the spirit that made them timeless.

Prepare to be captivated as Slyther takes you on a thrilling musical journey, fusing the nostalgia of the 70’s with their own modern twist. With their unyielding passion and undeniable talent, Slyther is a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock music.