About the Artist

Join us for Todd Kessler Presents: Songwriters in the Round at Hey Nonny! Hosted by Todd Kessler, this monthly event features a different group of singer-songwriters for each performance. Join the circle and get an up close and personal musical experience.

February includes Todd’s featured artist Ralph Covert with Elle Casazza and Kenny Lyonswright.

GRAMMY NOMINATED Ralph Covert returns to his singer-songwriter roots with a stirringly intimate collection of post-pop acoustic gems. Welcome to Deadsville takes listeners on a journey encompassing life’s highs and lows, touching on themes from depression and death to love and rebirth. It is a heart-felt album that provides a refreshingly honest soundtrack for living. The lyrics and melodies evoke comparisons to artists like Elliott Smith and Paul McCartney, arranged with sparse yet sparkling production.

Elle Casazza diversifies the pop scene with her own refreshing and authentic blend of jazz, soul, funk and pop rhythms that are seamlessly crafted into her songs. Elle’s commanding vocals, defying songwriting and versatile approach produces infectious and timeless music that garners fans worldwide.

Kenny Lyonswright is a born-and-raised Wisconsin boy now living in Chicago, IL! He grew up playing violin before switching to voice lessons, and bass guitar, in high school–guitar quickly followed, as he wanted to start songleading at summer camp and at synagogue. He went on to study voice at UW-Madison and got his Bachelor of Music degree. While in college, he sang and played in a variety of choirs, jazz ensembles, and small bands that played house parties and corporate events.

Kenny moved to Chicago in 2016 to oversee all things music at Congregation Sukkat Shalom in Wilmette, IL. He lives in the city with my wife, Annie, where they enjoy spending as much time as possible at the lake!

Calling Todd Kessler a singer/songwriter simply wouldn’t do him justice. The rising folk-rock star is the consummate storyteller, with a remarkable ability to take listeners on a winding, wonderful, and introspective journey through the depths of the human experience.