CAFF 2026 Featured Performers
D'aych & The Next Level Band
D'aych & The Next Level Band
D'aych & The Next Level Band
D'AYCH (DH)and The Next Level Band offer an electrifying musical experience that seamlessly blends the sounds of gospel, rap, rock, jazz and inspirational vibes. This dynamic band brings a contagious energy to the stage, captivating audiences with their versatile musical styles. Their ability to switch styles and genres makes them a favor
D'AYCH (DH)and The Next Level Band offer an electrifying musical experience that seamlessly blends the sounds of gospel, rap, rock, jazz and inspirational vibes. This dynamic band brings a contagious energy to the stage, captivating audiences with their versatile musical styles. Their ability to switch styles and genres makes them a favorite amongst people from all backgrounds. Introducing Songbird – Born and raised in Milwaukee, Songbird is a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter whose sound blends gospel, R&B, soul, and jazz into something timeless and transformative. From Lollapalooza to worship stages, she’s known for creating healing spaces with her voice—Pull up, post up, and praise in 'Songbird' style!
Peace Love Hope
D'aych & The Next Level Band
D'aych & The Next Level Band
Reunited and ready to rock, "Peace Love Hope" is a funk-rock-reggae fusion
trio that's been around the block and back. Formed in Racine, Wisconsin
(1989) under the name "Fruit Salad", the group's roots date back to their high
school days, where they first started grooving to the sounds of funk and
reggae. The band had much success performing
Reunited and ready to rock, "Peace Love Hope" is a funk-rock-reggae fusion
trio that's been around the block and back. Formed in Racine, Wisconsin
(1989) under the name "Fruit Salad", the group's roots date back to their high
school days, where they first started grooving to the sounds of funk and
reggae. The band had much success performing in the Midwest. After a three-
decade hiatus, the band has reconvened, bringing with them a renewed
passion for music and a fresh perspective.
In 2024 with newfound energy and creativity, Peace Love Hope is revamping
their classic hits and crafting new ones that blend the best of their past with
the present. Their music is a testament to the power of good vibes, infectious
beats, and inspiring lyrics. Get ready to groove with this revitalized trio as they
bring their unique sound to the stage and share their message of peace, love,
and hope with a whole new audience.
Songbird
D'aych & The Next Level Band
Songbird
Introducing Songbird – Born and raised in Milwaukee, Songbird is a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter whose sound blends gospel, R&B, soul, and jazz into something timeless and transformative. From Lollapalooza to worship stages, she’s known for creating healing spaces with her voice—Pull up, post up, and praise in 'Songbird' style!
CAFF Guest Stage Host
Natalie Charmaine
Natalie Charmaine is a dynamic community leader, and
engagement strategist dedicated to creating memorable experiences
that bring people together. As the Mistress of Ceremonies,
Natalie will keep the energy high, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance. She is Co-Founder and E.D. of ExPOSED Inc.
CAFF 2026 CREATIVE CONSULTANTS
Graeme Reid
ART COMPETITION 'JUDGE OF DISTINCTION'
CAFF is proud to welcome Graeme Reid as this year's art 'Judge of Distinction'. He is currently Senior Curator at the Museum of Wisconsin Art, where he has worked since 2003, has worked in museums for thirty-five years with positions at the Swope Art Museum (Terre Haute, IN), the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette (Lafayette, IN) and the John Michael Kohler Arts Center (Sheboygan, WI). With degrees from the University of Glasgow and Indiana State University, Reid has taught humanities and art history at Indiana State and Purdue Universities. A very experienced curator of historic and contemporary exhibitions, Reid has extensive judging experience locally, regionally and nationally, is an award-winning writer, and has lectured extensively in the Midwest.
Tina Johnson
ART COMPETITION JUDGE
Tina Johnson, retired researcher at the Medical College of Wisconsin, has always used art as an emotional vehicle that allows her to feel a range of sentiments and experience humanity. She considers art a social connector that can transcend class and culture, therefore it can be used as a conversation starter to discuss complex issues.
In her “repurposed” life, she hopes to use her role as president of the Milwaukee Art Museum’s African American Art Alliance and art museum docent to bridge to gap in the MKE community by starting conversations about our common human connections and to help foster a greater understanding of each other.
Jody Alexander
ART COMPETITION JUDGE
Arts advocate, Jody Alexander is founder of Blk-Art, History & Culture She has volunteered, promoted, advocated and implemented arts/educational programming for more than 20 years. Alexander has also hosted a number of renowned artists, lecturers and art historians during their visits to Milwaukee. As a special events assistant for the Milwaukee Art Museum (MAM), she enjoyed incorporating MAM's art collection into every event. She continued to work with local artists as a senior sales associate at the Morning Glory Gallery (at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts) and was the
program coordinator for 5 years for MARN's (Milwaukee Artists Resource Network) Mentor/Mentee Program. Alexander is also an enthusiastic art maker, art collector, researcher of African American history and a recipient of a 2019 Black Excellence Award.
Aichelle S. White
MuSample: Music Business Workshop Coordinator
Aichelle S. White is dedicated to being the ultimate resource for music creatives, offering unparalleled expertise
and support in every aspect of music administration. As the greatest music administrator on this side of
heaven, she is dedicated to guiding and empowering artists to navigate the intricate landscape of the music
industry with confidence and success.
The MuSample mission is simple: to educate and advocate for music creatives, ensuring they have the knowledge
and tools they need to thrive. Demystifying the complexities of the music business, She helps artists unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams. With a rich background as a musician, singer-songwriter, and music business advocate, she has
experienced firsthand the challenges and triumphs of the music industry. This unique perspective has
fueled her passion for helping other music creatives succeed. Understanding the importance of not only creating great music but also managing the business side effectively.
Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors & Partners
