BIO

Payton&Annabelle is a dynamic duo blending folk and alternative genres, characterized by rich harmonies and intricate acoustic guitar arrangements. Their musical partnership blossomed at The Kalamazoo Academy of Rock band program in 2021, where a shared love for artists like Simon&Garfunkel and Taylor Swift ignited their creative spark.

Payton&Annabelle are quickly making a name for themselves in Michigan. Their original song projection won the first ever Michigan-wide New Moon Song Competition, and their music also garnered them first place in the Battle of the Bands at the Kalamazoo State Theatre. With over five years of performing together, and more than 150 performances, Payton&Annabelle had the honor of opening for six-time Grammy winner Sarah Jarosz at Bell’s Beer Garden in July 2024, as well as selling out their debut headlining show at the same venue in 2025. Payton&Annabelle also had the opportunity to perform at The Ark in Ann Arbor Michigan for the Battle of The Bands competition, and have been expanding to festival performances in Michigan and beyond.

In addition to their live performances, they’ve garnered media attention through local radio interviews and online articles, building a strong presence both in Michigan and beyond. Their growing community support is a testament to their ability to engage and captivate audiences.

Beyond their music, Payton&Annabelle are committed to empowering young women in the music industry. Looking ahead, they plan to expand their sound in their upcoming album Harps and Sashes. For Payton&Annabelle, authenticity is key, ensuring that their music evolves authentically alongside their personal growth.

PRESS LINKS

  • New Moon Song Writing Competition Win

    Local Spins article about Payton&Annabelle winning the New Moon Song Competition!

  • Kalamazoo State Theatre Battle of The Bands Win

    Kalamazoo State Theatre Battle of The Bands Payton&Annabelle, First Place WIN!

    Kalamazoo State Theatre Instagram post for Battle of The Bands

  • Album Release Show Article

    Now Kalamazoo article about the Payton&Annabelle article.

  • WMUK Payton&Annabelle Interview on "for the willows" Album

  • Payton&Annabelle open for Sarah Jarosz

    Payton&Annabelle open for Sarah Jarosz at Bell's Beer Garden Kzoo, MI

    Payton&Annabelle open for Four Time Grammy Winner at Bell’s Beer Garden!

  • LIVE Performance Video from Bell's Brewery

    LIVE Performance Video from Bell's Brewery

    Live video from Sarah Jarosz show at Bell’s

  • Michigan Daily covers Payton&Annabelle

    Michigan Daily article on Payton&Annabelle regarding Battle of The Bands performance at The Ark in Ann Arbor, MI

  • Payton&Annabelle perform new original song at Springfest

    Live video from Springfest in Ann Arbor, MI

Live Recording of Award Winning Song, “projection”

This recording of “projection,” was filmed at DogTown Studios in Grand Rapids, MI as a part of duos prize for winning the New Moon Song Competition.

Payton&Annabelle cover Valerie

with full band at Springfest!

Springfest in Ann Arbor, MI

Image Portfolio