Community spirit—the idea that when we work together, we all benefit—is something Deadheads understand instinctively. We thrive on it. Help a stranger as if they were a friend, and never let someone go without if you can help. As the song says: “I need a miracle every day.”
The organizers of the Rockopelli Music Festival embody this ethos. For fourteen years, Rockopelli has brought together artists, activists, and musicians to support the Northwest Indiana community, channeling proceeds from the annual event into scholarships and local charities. Since its start in 2012, the festival has raised over $100,000 for student scholarships while donating to various local causes. This year’s charity event, held at Crown Point’s Bulldog Park, featured four diverse bands united by the same spirit of community.
Under a clear sky, Lauren Dukes and her band opened the day. The sun seemed to shine just for her, returning some of the warmth and love she sends out with every note. Joined by bassist Ola Timothy, drummer Anthony Sutton, guitarist Chad Burton, and keyboardist TJ Jenkins, Lauren stood tall with the Lake County Courthouse in the background and a voice as strong as the bright blue sky above.
Their set began with the Beatles’ “Come Together,” slipped into a funky Stevie Wonder’s “I Wish,” and soared with an electric take on Lenny Kravitz’s “Fly Away.” Lauren’s range carried everything from Elle King’s soulful blues hit “Ex’s & Oh’s” to a gritty Black Crowes cover, “Hard to Handle.” Ola’s bass lines shone on Bob Marley’s “Is This Love,” and Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground” had the crowd moving. The set closed with a powerful “Rock Steady,” leaving the audience warmed, body and soul.
Next up in the covered pavilion, Marcus Safirt and Mike Kneeland of Stealin’ the Farm kept the music flowing among vendors and food trucks. Hailing from neighboring Porter County, the duo showed their support for Lake County fans with heartfelt renditions of “Harder They Fall,” “Dear Mr. Fantasy,” “Love the One You’re With,” and “Going to California.” The setting was perfect—good food, good vibes, and music that invited people to wander closer to the local charities in attendance.
Pelliplay, Hobart Humane Society, and Operation Charlie Bravo were on-site, raising funds and awareness. A silent auction, colorful merch tables, and lively conversations helped ensure these organizations were part of the celebration.
The big stage lit up with Hessville Star, who wasted no time declaring their rock ’n’ roll mission with AC/DC’s “Girl’s Got Rhythm,” Bowie’s “Ziggy Stardust,” and Hendrix’s “Stone Free.” Hailing from Hammond, IN, these young rockers—Zeke Rongers (lead guitar), Chris Grove (keys), Chris Karp (drums), and Billy Ozello (bass)—blasted through ’70s and ’80s staples like “Free Ride” and “Badge.”
They mixed crowd-pleasers with deep cuts like Squeeze’s “Tempted,” ZZ Top’s “Nationwide,” and Aerosmith’s “Lost Child.” The standout moment came with their cover of Deep Purple’s “Perfect Strangers,” a rare gem that transported fans back to the days when rock was raw, loud, and gloriously simple.
Back in the pavilion, Marcus and Mike set the tone with “The Weight” and “Little Darlin’,” paving the way for the night’s headliner: the Joe Marcinek Band. Joe’s rotating Dead Funk Summit is already legendary, but for his hometown show, he stacked the deck: Melvin Seals (Jerry Garcia Band) on keys, Cliff Porter (Jellybread) on drums, Rick King on percussion, and the incomparable Tony Hall (Dumpstaphunk) on bass.
The set was a masterclass in collaboration, opening with “George Washington,” rolling into “Shaky Ground,” and igniting the crowd with “Feel Like a Stranger.” The energy was pure magic—tight drums, Tony’s grooving bass, Joe’s fiery guitar, and Melvin’s celestial touch. Highlights included “Kissing My Love,” a soulful “Sugaree,” “Dreams,” “Down by the River,” and “West L.A. Fadeaway.”
The night closed with “Not Fade Away” and “Shakedown Street,” perfect songs to seal an unforgettable homecoming.
From start to finish, Rockopelli 2025 delivered. Musicians, volunteers, vendors, and fans came together in true community spirit, raising money, raising voices, and raising spirits. As the stars filled the Crown Point sky, one thing was certain: Rockopelli 2025 was a triumph.
Mark your calendars now—Rockopelli 2026 is already calling.
