Next Saturday, December 19, the Bluebird in Bloomington will be hosting the annual 92.3 WTTS Toys for Tots concert. The show has featured some outstanding artists in the past, and this year is no different. Brett Dennen and Eric Hutchinson are the headliners, and Indiana native Evan Watson will open the show.

Dennen and Hutchinson are both rising stars in the music world, and their music can often be heard on 92.3. I have seen both live, and they’re equally impressive. I saw Dennen when he opened for John Mayer at Verizon Wireless Music Center a couple of summers ago, and while he put on a great performance, I think his music would be even better in a more intimate setting like the Bluebird.

I also saw Hutchinson a few summers ago, but under very different circumstances. He was playing at the Rib Fest in Indianapolis — in the grass, out of the back of a car. He was touring by himself as part of something called the “Jeep Compass Tour,” but that didn’t stop him from giving a great show. He attracted quite a crowd and kept everyone interested with catchy songs and hilarious interactions with his audience. I got a chance to talk to him afterwards, and he’s a great guy. He released his major label debut last spring, and his popularity has been skyrocketing ever since. If he continues at the rate he’s going, it won’t be long until he starts selling out much larger venues, so make sure you’re there to catch him next weekend.

Evan Watson was born and raised in Crawfordsville, Indiana, and he’s got loads of talent. He and his band bring a very unique, soulful rock sound to the stage, and I’m sure he’ll be a great opener.

Tickets are $15, and proceeds from the show will benefit Toys for Tots. Also, all attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the cause.