Emilio Salinas

Born and raised in Rockford, IL, Emilio Salinas is a distinguished acoustic looper musician and singer whose innovative approach and soulful performances have garnered significant attention. Inspired by artists like Ed Sheeran, Emilio embarked on his musical journey at the age of 13, starting with church services and gradually making his mark at backyard parties, café hotspots, and events throughout northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.

Emilio’s unique sound is characterized by his fusion of genres and styles, facilitated by his looper pedal. This allows him to blend and layer sounds in real-time, creating rich, textured performances that captivate audiences. His raspy voice and versatile style enable him to traverse genres effortlessly, often with a refreshing gender-bending twist that sets his music apart.

Over the years, Emilio has performed at notable venues across northern Illinois, including Urban Farm Girl, Rockford City Market, BMO Center, and Mosaic Film Festival. His dynamic collaborations with fellow Rockford natives Rya and Chloe Alexzander—now based in Nashville—have further showcased his versatility and commitment to his craft.

With a repertoire that spans a wide array of genres (2000s emo, modern pop, country hits, and classic R&B) and a distinctive, engaging stage presence, Emilio Salinas continues to push boundaries and redefine acoustic performance. His ongoing dedication to his art and the unique fusion of styles he brings to the stage makes him a compelling artist to watch.