Melissa May & Brian Coonan Acoustic

Melissa May and Brian Coonan are an acoustic duo based out of Bay City, MI and playing original music as well as performing interesting versions of cover songs such as Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love", Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly", Lady Gaga's "Edge of Glory" and many more.

The duo met when Brian responded to an online ad Melissa had placed looking for a guitar player to join her in a acoustic duo. They got together at Melissa's house, talked for a bit, and played through some of Melissa's original songs as well as a few select cover songs and instantly knew that they had a musical connection, as well as a friendship. Rehearsals took place throughout the summer of 2015 and started playing shows in November of that year.

Melissa and Brian have gotten a warm reception from both the music community as well as many local venues - playing at times 3-4 shows a week. In May of 2016, at the Review Magazine Awards, Melissa walked away with Best Rock Songwriter (the first female to win the award in 30 years) and Best Female Rock Vocalist, while Brian took home the award for Best Rock Guitarist. Taking their rock and roll side into the acoustic environment makes the performances energetic and raw - and entertaining for the guests of the venue.

The original material when played acoustically showcases Melissa's ability to write well-thought-out songs that can be played by a full band or broken down to just 1 or 2 acoustic guitars and still stand on their own.