Looking for live music on 30A? This scenic 24-mile stretch along Florida's Gulf Coast is a hub for original performances, with venues like AJ's Grayton Beach, Seaside Amphitheater, and Old Florida Fish House hosting shows year-round. From open mic nights to major festivals like the 30A Songwriters Festival and ArtsQuest, the area celebrates local talent.
Here are five standout artists shaping the 30A music scene:
- Dylan 'Grayton' Allen: Known for soulful, coastal-inspired originals, often performing at The Red Bar and Grayton Beer Company.
- Leana Carter: A rising singer-songwriter with heartfelt acoustic sets about coastal living and personal growth.
- Solomon Miller: A folk artist blending coastal grooves, featured at local showcases and major events like ArtsQuest.
- Johnny Tapp: A storyteller crafting songs inspired by 30A's landscapes, performing at venues like Old Florida Fish House.
- Storm Folk: A duo delivering rich harmonies and "Coastal Folk" sounds, regularly seen at festivals and local events.
For schedules, visit sowal.co or follow these artists and venues on social media. Whether it's a beach bonfire or a festival stage, 30A offers music experiences you won't want to miss.
Top 5 Local Artists to Watch on 30A - Quick Reference Guide
1. Dylan 'Grayton' Allen
Dylan 'Grayton' Allen, a musician deeply connected to the charm of Grayton Beach, is a familiar face at The Red Bar and Grayton Beer Company. His performances, filled with original music inspired by the coastal lifestyle, have made him a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Dylan’s music reflects the relaxed, easygoing vibe of the Gulf Coast, offering something different from the usual beach bar atmosphere. His focus on original singer-songwriter material strikes a chord with audiences looking for a more personal and memorable musical experience.
You can often catch Dylan at events like the 30A Songwriters Festival and the Flutterby Arts Festival, where his storytelling and soulful performances shine. For a chance to hear him live, check out the schedules at The Red Bar or Grayton Beer Company. These venues also host open mic nights, giving new talent a platform to share their music. Dylan's heartfelt style perfectly complements the outdoor beauty of South Walton, setting the stage for an exciting lineup of local artistry.
2. Leana Carter
Leana Carter brings a heartfelt acoustic vibe to the 30A music scene, showcasing the depth of local talent in the area. An up-and-coming artist on 30A, Leana focuses on original songs that delve into themes like coastal living, small-town connections, and personal growth - all infused with the unmistakable spirit of the Gulf Coast.
Locals often spot her performing at cozy open mic nights and arts events, where her singer-songwriter style stands out. Her focus on original music offers a refreshing alternative to the high-energy band performances, highlighting the grassroots artistry that defines the Gulf Coast. With a quiet yet captivating stage presence, Leana is becoming a key figure in South Walton's music culture, perfect for anyone looking to experience the area's authentic and evolving creative scene.
3. Solomon Miller
Solomon Miller is a standout in South Walton's live music scene, known for crafting original songs that weave together coastal grooves and folk influences. Whether he's performing at local open mic nights or headlining talent showcases, Solomon’s style perfectly complements the relaxed vibe of the area. His talent extends beyond intimate settings - he’s also made waves at larger events and major festivals.
One memorable moment came in May 2025, when he captivated the crowd at the 37th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival held at Grand Boulevard Town Center. His original songs shone brightly in a lineup filled with talented artists, drawing both locals and visitors to this celebrated interactive arts event.
From cozy open mic nights to the energy of large festivals, Solomon’s performances bring a fresh, homegrown sound that embodies the spirit of 30A's artistic community. His dedication to original music and deep connection to the area play a key role in shaping South Walton's vibrant music culture.
For a true taste of South Walton's creative energy, make sure to catch Solomon Miller at a local showcase.
4. Johnny Tapp
Johnny Tapp made his mark during open mic nights at spots like AJ's Grayton and The Bay, where his talent for original songwriting quickly caught attention. While many performers in the area cater to the tourist crowd with cover songs, Johnny stands out by weaving his own stories into his music. His songs are inspired by the serene beauty of the coastal landscape, from the sunsets over Choctawhatchee Bay to the peaceful charm of Western Lake.
His dedication and growth as an artist are evident in his journey from tip-jar performances to paid gigs at venues like Red Fish Taco and Old Florida Fish House. These venues, known for showcasing live local music for years, have become places where Johnny’s talent is regularly celebrated. His steady rise has now led to an exciting milestone - his upcoming performance at the 37th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival.
On May 10, 2025, Johnny will take the stage at the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival, held at 30Avenue during Art Month Walton. He’ll perform alongside other local talents, including Leana Carter, Solomon Miller, and Storm Folk. This free, family-friendly event highlights the strong sense of community within South Walton’s music scene, where artists frequently collaborate and support each other across various venues and events.
Johnny's original music resonates in both intimate settings and larger festivals, capturing the spirit of 30A’s vibrant music culture. Whether performing at a cozy bonfire or a well-curated arts festival, Johnny brings an authentic coastal sound that reflects the heart and soul of the area. His journey is a testament to the community-driven energy that defines the local music scene.
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5. Storm Folk
Storm Folk brings something fresh to the 30A music scene with their original "Coastal Folk" sound, offering a refreshing alternative to the usual cover bands. Their rich harmonies and polished performances create a unique vibe that sets them apart from the many solo acts in South Walton.
The duo has become a staple at key local arts events, including a featured performance at the 37th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival in May 2025 during Art Month Walton. This free, family-friendly event reflects their dedication to the local music community, where they’ve shared the stage with other talented artists from the area.
Storm Folk doesn’t just stick to one formula - they adapt and evolve their performances to stay fresh at local events. Their storytelling, often inspired by 30A landmarks and coastal living, strikes a chord with both locals and visitors alike. Beyond ArtsQuest, they are regulars at the 30A Songwriters Festival, where they perform their original music alongside renowned artists from across the globe. They’ve also been part of Digital Graffiti in Alys Beach, adding live music to the immersive art installations and enhancing the overall experience.
Their journey reflects the vibrant, community-focused spirit that defines the 30A music scene.
How to Find These Artists During Your Visit
Start your search at sowal.co, a go-to resource for live music listings, seasonal arts events, and community calendars along the 30A coast. This platform is packed with helpful details about South Walton's music scene, making it easy to pinpoint when and where these five artists might be performing. Want to stay in the loop? Sign up for their "Stay in Touch" newsletter to get updates on songwriter rounds, open mic nights, and other events.
For even more up-to-date info, check out the schedules of local venues where these artists often play. Places like Old Florida Fish House, FOOW, AJ's Grayton, Shunk Gulley, Red Fish Taco, and The Bay regularly post their weekly lineups on their websites and social media pages. Don’t miss recurring events like the Sounds of Seaside Concert Series (Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m., Seaside Amphitheater, free) or Sunday Pickin' @ The Bay (4–8 p.m., featuring Mike Whitty & Friends). Once you’re in town, don’t hesitate to ask bartenders or servers for tips - they’re often in the know about the night’s performers, especially during big events.
If you want to catch multiple artists in one trip, plan your visit around major festivals. The 30A Songwriters Festival (January 16–20, 2025) is a must-see, featuring emerging talent across venues in South Walton. In the spring, Art Month Walton brings non-stop live music to events like the Art Walks and the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival. These festivals are jam-packed with performances, giving you the chance to experience several featured artists in a single day. It’s the perfect way to dive into 30A’s lively music scene.
Lastly, stay connected on social media for real-time updates. Follow venues like The Bay and Seaside, as well as individual artists, on Facebook and Instagram. You might even stumble upon spontaneous events, like beach bonfires featuring live music. Once you’re on-site, keep an eye out for venue chalkboards and printed flyers - they’re great for finding weekly lineups and last-minute shows.
Conclusion
Going to an open mic night or a community event on 30A isn't just about enjoying live music - it's about supporting the artists who are shaping the area's distinct sound. Over the past two decades, South Walton has evolved into a hub for original music, where audiences now lean toward fresh, creative performances rather than cover songs.
Donnie Sundal reflects on this evolution, saying the music scene has grown from something "very small in the community to becoming a focal point in the community".
This transformation is fueled by people like you showing up and engaging. Picture the magic: Gulf sunsets, serene dune lakes, and bayside bonfires creating the perfect backdrop for unforgettable performances. The community's deep appreciation for the arts is often described as "second to none". Forrest Williams even likens the emerging music culture in South Walton to how jazz defines New Orleans or how reggae embodies the Caribbean, hinting that 30A is crafting its own unique identity.
Events like ArtsQuest and Art Walks are proof of this thriving scene. These gatherings celebrate creativity with live performances from local artists like Johnny Tapp and Storm Folk, offering a chance for genuine connections between performers and audiences. Whether it's buying merchandise, tipping generously, or following artists on social media, every small action helps keep this vibrant community alive.
So, grab a blanket, catch a show at an amphitheater, or join a Wednesday bonfire at The Bay. You'll discover the true musical soul of 30A. To stay in the loop on upcoming events, visit sowal.co.
FAQs
Where can I find when and where these 30A artists are performing?
To keep up with the performance schedules of these talented 30A artists, check out their social media pages or keep an eye on local event calendars. You can also browse community blogs and resources that focus on South Walton events for up-to-date details. Staying tuned to these platforms is a great way to make sure you catch every show!
What makes the music scene along 30A stand out from other coastal areas?
The 30A music scene is all about its close-knit, community-driven atmosphere, where local talent shines through open mic nights, cozy venues, and talent showcases. It's a space that fosters creativity and brings people together, making everyone feel part of something special.
What sets 30A apart from bigger, more commercialized music hubs is its relaxed coastal charm paired with exceptional performances. Whether you're a resident or just passing through, the music here embodies the lively spirit of South Walton, intertwined with the area's stunning natural surroundings.
What popular festivals on 30A showcase local artists?
Local performers along 30A frequently shine at some of the area's beloved festivals. Two must-attend events where their talents take center stage are the 30A Songwriters Festival, celebrated for its cozy and eclectic music showcases, and the 30A Wine Festival, which pairs live music with outstanding food and wine. These gatherings offer a fantastic way to experience the lively arts scene of South Walton.
