We are very excited to have Haley Burke and the Hawks as one of the bands helping the Kansas City Blues Society celebrate its fifth annual Women in Blues show in partnership with BB’s Lawnside BBQ. We celebrate this up-and-coming band of young musicians who are making their mark in the Kansas City music scene.
Haley Burke and the Hawks are a blues-rock band known for their electrifying live performances, tight musicianship, and a fresh take on a classic sound. Members include Haley Burke on lead guitar and vocals, Olivia Todd on bass guitar, and KJ Mace on drums. Formed in 2025, the band members first came together when they were introduced to each other through Danielle Nicole and Brandon Miller. They connected, which sparked a shared passion for blues, rock, and collaborative music-making. With original music written by Haley Burke, the Hawks combine gritty guitar riffs, soulful vocals, and a driving rhythm section to create shows that feel both authentic and modern. Their sound balances respect for blues tradition with a contemporary energy, making each performance memorable and engaging.
Throughout their development, the band has been guided and mentored by seasoned musicians such as Coyote Bill, Amanda Fish, and Adam Wyatt, whose expertise and insight have helped shape the Hawks approach to performance, songwriting, and collaboration. This mentorship has played a key role in refining their sound and state presence, allowing them to confidently step onto larger stages and tackle ambitious projects. The band was originally known as Black HOK but in 2026 rebranded to Haley Burke and the Hawks. The band proudly represented the Kansas City Blues Society at the International Blues Challenge Youth Showcase, gaining national recognition for their talent, stage presence, and originality. They’ve also performed at some of the region’s most notable venues, including Knuckleheads KC and the Aztec Theatre. They’ve earned a reputation for energetic, and captivating shows that bring audiences into the heart of the music. With a growing catalog of original songs, a commitment to pushing the boundaries of blues rock, and a deep connection to the Kansas City music community, Haley Burke and the Hawks continue to make their mark as one of the most exciting emerging bands in the region.
SAVE THE DATE! 5th Annual Women in Blues show at BB’s Lawnside BBQ, Kansas City, MO, on Saturday, June 27th, from 7:00-10:00 p.m.
Jack Kenyon, aka Hatchet Jack
One of Kansas City’s most enthusiastic and inspiring young blues musicians, Jack Kenyon, will be participating in the Pinetop Perkins Foundation (PPF) 17th annual Workshop in June. The workshop is a masterclass where top blues professionals teach young students’ piano, harmonica, guitar, electric guitar, bass, and drums. Working with the class this year are blues musicians Billy Branch, Libby Rae Watson, Bob Stroger, Bob Corritore, Anthony Geraci, Castro “Mr. Sipp” Coleman, Danielle Nicole, Brandon Miller, Tony Braunagel, Lee Williams, Heather Cross, and Teeny Tucker.
In Jack’s own words, “I guess when you think of a kid my age, you wouldn’t think of the Blues but, if you know me, I’m all about that kind of music.” Jack is a 15-year-old freshman in high school who was born and raised in Kansas City. When he was 11, his father introduced him to Robert Johnson’s “Me and the Devil Blues.” Jack said, at first he hated it, but soon he began to like it. Now, he plays all kinds of blues music, from Elmore James to R.L. Burnside, and he loves it all. He also plays along the lines of Jerry Reed and some of the older country performers. Jack’s life pretty much revolves around music and performing almost every night. Jack says if anyone wants to talk with him about music, just come up and he’ll talk with ya!
We are so proud of this young musician and hope he has a great time honing both his guitar and harmonica skills at the PPF Workshop. Check out this video of Jack playing Death Letter Blues.