Ryan Hiller at Waterbar May 2

Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, singer-songwriter Ryan Hiller was still a teen when his band Real Eyes won opening slots for the Black Eyed Peas and John Scofield. He’s gone on to open for the Steve Miller Band, Lyle Lovett, and Styx. He relocated from New Orleans to San Diego in 2006, having played Winstons during a 2003 national tour and being impressed with the city.

Lady Dottie & the Diamonds at Golden Island May 3

Originally a gospel singer, Dorothy Mae “Lady Dottie” Whitsett’s early career included performing with Kool and the Gang and Clarence Carter. Lady Dottie & the Diamonds — which includes former members of GoGoGo Airheart — perform covers of songs by Etta James, Muddy Waters, BB King, Buddy Holly, and more. They’ve won San Diego Music Awards for Best Blues and Best Blues Album.

The Swedish Models at Winstons Beach Club May 4

The Swedish Models were founded in 2007 by former members of Cape May and Vinyl Radio, and quickly developed a sound steeped in punky garage rock, with an emphasis on heavy guitars. They’ll play a “May the Fourth Be with You” Star Wars-themed party with additional performances by Velvet Starlings, Rey Wolf, and Davis, and DJ sets from Lou Niles and In Your Neighborhood.

Damian & Marion Smokin Bowles Band at Jacumba Hot Springs Resort May 4

Regularly seen at outdoor folk festivals and pop culture events such as San Diego Comic Fest, the Damian & Marion Smokin Bowles Band are a duo specializing in Americana and mildly psychedelic folk a la the Burrito Brothers and Norman Greenbaum. The performance takes place at the Bazaar, which is held every first Saturday of the month.

Whiskey & Burlap at San Pasqual Wine Bar May 4

Founded in 2018, folk, roots, Americana, bluegrass & country trio Whiskey & Burlap has performed at local venues such as Deft Brewing, Nate’s Garden Grill, and Winstons in Ocean Beach. Their debut full-length won Best Folk/Acoustic Album at 2022 San Diego Music Awards. A sophomore album, Questioning Why, was released last year.