One of the best things about living in a city is the access to local music and local musicians.  Here are some of the best singer/songwriters around.

(credit: ellencherry.com)

Ellen Cherry

www.ellencherry.com

Ellen Cherry is a full-time touring musician but based in Baltimore.  Her schedule takes her all over the place, but she always makes time to perform here.  She’s released nine CDs and her music’s been played on “Road Rules” and “My Super Sweet 16.”

(credit: mamasblacksheep.com)

Mama’s Black Sheep

www.mamasblacksheep.com

Mama’s Black Sheep is composed of Ashland Miller and Laura Cerulli.  They’ve been touring together since 2008 and have released one CD.  The CD, Unmarked Highway, is available through iTunes.  Their style crosses between country, R&B and acoustic rock.

(credit: nakedblue.com)

Naked Blue

www.nakedblue.com

Jen and Scott Smith have been performing together for years.  They’ve released five CDs, four of which are available on their website.  Their songs have been heard on “America’s Next Top Model” and “The Young and the Restless.”  Popular songs include “Ordinary Girl,” “Miami” and “Fear of Flight.”

(credit: Steven Parke/ericscottmusic.com)

Eric Scott

www.ericscottmusic.com

Eric Scott has released three CDs.  One of his songs was in “Felicity.”  He’s won two Wammies for his music.  He wrote the music for the indie movie “Tracks” and has performed with BB King, Ray Charles and Jimmy Buffett.

(credit: R. David/orangepopsongs.com)

Todd Wright

thewoodandstoneroom.com/toddwright/index.html

A song from Todd Wright’s band, GetawayCar, “Superstar” was the soundtrack for a 2003 Pontiac Vibe commercial.  He’s a fill-in guitarist for Better than Ezra in his spare time.  His catchy rhythms and clever lyrics have made many people instant fans of his music.

(credit: thezenmonkeys.com)

Zen Monkeys

www.thezenmonkeys.com

The Zen Monkeys are impossible to define musically.  They’re all over the place from funk to country and from pop and rock to folk and bluegrass.  They’re based in Salisbury but they travel all over Maryland and the East Coast.