Thursday night in Greenville, WI, while many were focused on The Draft, I found myself at Thirst Bar & Grill catching a truly special live music set. Nestled right on Greenville Drive, just minutes from the Fox Cities and Appleton International Airport, Thirst is a local gem where the drinks are cold, the vibe is warm, and the music is always worth the trip.

The night’s star was none other than Denny Vanesky, a seasoned Americana singer-songwriter with over 30 years of performing and songwriting under his belt. I first met Denny more than two decades ago when his mom was my neighbor. One unforgettable night, they brought him and his friends over for a jam session that felt straight out of a National Lampoon movie—giant bottle of Jack, sombreros, and a ukulele included. Even back then, it was clear Denny was a rare talent, pouring heart and soul into every note.

Fast forward to tonight, and Denny’s storytelling is as vivid and raw as ever. Known for his raspy, intense vocals and fiery guitar picking, Denny’s style blends Americana, blues, and newgrass with a flavor as rich as Kentucky barbecue. His songwriting conjures up stories about his colorful life and the people he’s met along the way, as showcased on his acclaimed album Sad Old Clown and tracks like Pour Me and Meet Me on the Mountain.

Since Thirst Bar & Grill doesn’t have a built-in sound system, Denny brought his own speakers, filling the room with a warm, intimate sound that perfectly matched the cozy venue. The crowd was small but mighty—including my amazing neighbors and his family—who soaked up every soulful original and bluesy riff.

If you’re searching for “live events near me Greenville WI” or wondering about things to do in Greenville nightlife, keep an eye on Thirst Bar & Grill’s lineup. Local artists like Denny keep the scene vibrant and authentic.

Want to dive deeper into Denny’s music? Check out his latest work and videos at facebook.com/denny.vanesky 

Want your event or venue featured on WiParty.com? I can shoot pro photos, create videos, and write a blog post that brings the crowd to your event!

Turn any of the pictures here into wall art or select wall art from our gallery of artwork.