Kris Acklen is a Rochester, NY–based singer-songwriter originally from Memphis, TN. In 2026, his first full year in upstate NY, Kris performed on the Sprouts Stage at Rochester Lilac Festival, the Evergreen Stage at Brockport Arts Festival, Abilene Bar & Lounge, Backwoods by Kettle Ridge Farms and more, and he is currently breaking into the Finger Lakes circuit. Kris blends pop, country, rock, and Americana into a versatile live show. Rooted in the belief that songwriting should reflect the human experience, Acklen crafts songs that are both personal and widely relatable. In 2018, he co-wrote the title track for Dolphin Kick: The Movie with producer Mark Petty II, marking an important milestone in his career. His 2024 release, “This Time Around” highlights his growing love for indie rock textures and 80s-inspired synth elements, all while leaning towards his natural country singer-songwriter vibe. Now Acklen's next project hones in on that love for country and Americana music, with songs like "First Drive," "Just a Building," and "Wrong Horse," which he's recording at studios in Rochester while collaborating with local Rochester musicians for a release in 2027. Kris has performed at notable events including the Rock For Love festival, the Mid-South Fair, and the Delta Fair and Music Festival in Memphis, where he began performing in 2008.