For Jennifer Hudson-Prenkert, Sounds of the Zoo runs all yearlong.

The founder, curator, and director of the Kalamazoo-based music festival is featuring several shows in 2026 to keep its momentum.

“Sounds of the Zoo has reached a point where it’s no longer just an idea or an annual event—it’s a living, growing ecosystem,” Hudson-Prenkert said.

“Lately, I’m motivated by the idea of sustainability: how we build something that supports artists long-term, not just for one weekend, and how we keep evolving while staying rooted in community.”

Billed as Sounds of the Zoo Presents: Live. Local. Vibes., the shows include different Michigan artists sharing the stage with each other and out-of-town guests.

“Creatively, I’ve been inspired by collaboration across scenes and genres and by watching artists support one another in really genuine ways,” Hudson-Prenkert said.

To get things started, Hudson-Prenkert is hosting a January 24 show at Kalamazoo’s Old Dog Tavern. It will feature performances by The Incantations’ Lisa Mackie and Ryan Gladding, along with Detroit’s Jennifer Westwood and Dylan Dunbar, and special guest Ted Russell Kamp.

Kamp is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and a member of Shooter Jennings’ band.

“I wanted artists who are not only incredible musicians but also strong storytellers and collaborators,” Hudson-Prenkert said.

“Bringing Detroit and Kalamazoo artists together with Ted Russell Kamp from Los Angeles reflects what Sounds of the Zoo is all about—connection across regimes and scenes. Ted has deep roots in Americana and songwriting, and pairing him with Michigan artists creates a really special, shared musical conversation rather than a typical headliner format.”

Longtime friends of Kamp’s, Westwood and Dunbar are eager to perform with him in Kalamazoo.

“Ted called, and we decided it was a great chance to get our pumps primed for the road again,” said Westwood, who performs with husband Dunbar and their band, The Handsome Devils.

“I wanted to treat our friend to some good experiences here. We wanted a date on the west side of the state. I love Jennifer [Hudson-Prenkert’s] vision, we enjoy Kalamazoo, and saw it as an opportunity to work with someone with a real vision versus looking to add a date to a calendar.”

I recently spoke with Hudson-Prenkert and Westwood ahead of the January 24 show.

Q: How has Sounds of the Zoo evolved since first launching in 2022?

Jennifer Hudson-Prenkert (JHP): In 2026, Sounds of the Zoo will continue expanding as both a festival and a year-round platform. The event has evolved from a multi-day music showcase into a broader cultural experience that includes education, networking, and cross-city collaboration. We’re focusing on stronger partnerships, deeper artist support, and more intentional programming that reflects Michigan’s music diversity while still welcoming national and international voices.

Q: The latest Sounds of the Zoo festival took place in September. How did it go?

JHP: The festival went incredibly well, and I’m really proud of what we pulled together. Each year reinforces how hungry people are for authentic, diverse live music experiences. One big insight was how important clear communication and artist care are at every level—from load-in to hospitality to promotion. I also learned that people really value discovery; they want to stumble upon new artists in unexpected places, and that’s something we’re leaning into even more moving forward.

Jennifer Westwood (JW): That was the first time we had played at Sounds of the Zoo. We last played the Ribfest in Kalamazoo pre-COVID. Rev. Run was the headliner. I had just finished changing clothes in the van when Rev walked right by my window, munching on barbecue, which secured Kalamazoo’s status as a cool spot to gig. But Sounds of the Zoo reigns supreme due to the event being stacked with original talent from across Michigan and the country for a week on multiple stages. I don’t know that anyone is doing a community event like this anywhere in Michigan. It’s not only remarkable, but it is vital, and I hope people start looking at it as an example of what’s possible. The event deserves everyone’s attention.

Q: How do year-round events help maintain Sounds of the Zoo’s momentum?

JHP: The year-round events are essential. They keep Sounds of the Zoo visible and active, but more importantly, they give artists consistent opportunities to perform, connect, and grow their audiences. These shows allow us to spotlight Michigan musicians in intimate settings while building relationships with venues and fans. By the time the festival arrives, there’s already a shared sense of investment and excitement.

Q: How did Sounds of the Zoo Presents: Live. Local. Vibes. come together?

JHP: Live. Local. Vibes. grew out of the desire to create a consistent, accessible concert series that highlights exceptional artists in a relaxed, welcoming environment. The series really took shape as a way to bridge the gap between festivals and everyday music lovers. The January 24 show sets the tone for the year by emphasizing collaboration, quality songwriting, and community. Old Dog Tavern is the perfect venue because it’s intimate, artist-friendly, and deeply connected to Kalamazoo’s music scene. It allows the audience to truly engage with the performances.

Q: Jennifer Westwood, how did you and Dylan Dunbar meet Ted Russell Kamp?

JW: Dylan has known Ted for years, from being on bills with Shooter Jennings. I met Ted first when he filled in on bass for Whitey Morgan at The Machine Shop in Flint, and we were opening. Ted is not just an accomplished musician, but he’s also part of a troubadour tradition in the Americana/roots/honky-tonk circuit as a songwriter. We find ourselves playing the same venues in far-flung places and befriending the same locals and venue owners. You take care of one another when you can, knowing how nice it is to have a friendly face in the crowd or be invited to a cooked meal, a restful sleep, or a chill hang on the road. And that’s basically how our relationship has grown.

Ted is an all-around great guy, and I’d pay a cover myself just to hang. But his willingness to collaborate and see what happens is the best. He does this for the love of music, and he’s the genuine article. What’s not to love?

Q: What plans do you have for the show?

JW: I look forward to collaborating on some of each other’s tunes musically and having a few fireworks moments. I think collaborating live opens the door to the unexpected in that way. What’s going to happen? Oh, you didn’t expect that? Neither did we!

And honestly, I hope it begins to spark a flame in more people regionally to investigate independent artists and support small venues—whatever your music tastes [are]—both musicians and music fans. I’d like to see us better connected to the aforementioned “circuit,” and for the regional musicians to be exposed to opportunities beyond home. And, ultimately, I’d like to see Michigan become a more viable place for these folks to tour, who have tended to pass us over in recent years. Making connections and making the world a smaller place, to me, is the heart of music.

Q: What do you hope people take away from the show?

JHP: Each performer brings authenticity, vulnerability, and a deep respect for the craft. I think the audience will experience a night that feels both intimate and inspiring. My hope is that attendees leave feeling connected, not just to the artists, but to the larger music community. Sounds of the Zoo is about discovery and appreciation, and realizing how much incredible talent exists right here and beyond.

Q: What other events are planned for Sounds of the Zoo Presents: Live. Local. Vibes. this year?

JHP: We will continue hosting Sounds of the Zoo Presents: Live. Local. Vibes. events throughout the year that feature a mix of emerging and established artists, along with collaborative shows and special-themed nights. Each event is intentionally designed to spotlight Michigan talent while creating meaningful, welcoming experiences for both artists and audiences. These shows help sustain momentum throughout the year and reinforce our belief that music is a powerful cultural connector.

In addition to the concert series, we’re especially excited to be co-hosting a collaborative fundraising event with the Kalamazoo Climate Crisis Coalition on March 21 at Old Dog Tavern. This event is rooted in the idea of collaboration over competition—coming together to support another organization doing important work in our community. Sustainability is one of the core pillars of Sounds of the Zoo, and partnering with a group that shares similar values and missions feels like a natural fit. We’re looking forward to creating an experience that not only celebrates live music but also raises awareness and funds for both organizations while strengthening community ties.

We’re also hosting a Garden Opener at Old Dog Tavern on June 14, and it’s shaping up to be a really special event. The lineup features Full Cord, The Bootstrap Boys, and Sweet Dee & The Wild Honeys. It’s going to be a great way to kick off the outdoor summer season and to keep building the momentum of live music in the beer garden of Old Dog Tavern. Alongside the music, we’ll have local vendors, including Kazoo Finds Eccentric Emporium, to continue our commitment to supporting creatives of all kinds.

No matter what the event—whether it’s a concert, a residency, or a community gathering—we’re focused on keeping that collaborative energy alive. Sounds of the Zoo is about bringing people together, supporting artists and partners, and building something sustainable and inclusive throughout the year.

Q: Jennifer Westwood, what plans do you have for 2026?

JW: It’s kind of a new world for us. We haven’t been able to dedicate ourselves full-time to music since Dylan’s surgery, and we just started getting back into it in bits last year. [Making] mindful choices [is] more important to me. That being said, I am anxious to get back on the road more regularly. I have loved having a dedicated band versus hired guns to work on arrangements and new songs. I just want to have them in front of appreciative audiences wherever they may be, and where we can all be in the moment with others. Watch for an event that’ll help us raise money for a down payment on a new Chevy van.

Sounds of the Zoo Presents: Live. Local. Vibes. is January 24 at Old Dog Tavern, 402 East Kalamazoo Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan. The show features performances by The Incantations’ Lisa Mackie and Ryan Gladding, Jennifer Westwood and Dylan Dunbar, and Ted Russell Kamp. Doors are at 7 pm, and music starts at 8 pm. The show is 18 and up with a $10 cover.