Carter Franks Music

If an audience came to see a Carter Franks show, they’d get a relaxed, soulful live performance that’s easy to enjoy whether they’re there to listen closely or just hang out with a drink. The music sits comfortably in an indie/soul rock lane — familiar covers mixed with originals — and the vibe adjusts to the room as the night goes on. Most shows are performed with electric guitarist Ben Appleton, whose playing adds depth and texture that makes the set feel full without being too loud or overpowering.

If a client hired Carter, they’d get a professional, low-stress experience from start to finish. Carter shows up early, communicates clearly, brings all necessary gear, and works with the venue to make setup smooth and unobtrusive. Set length and song selection are flexible, with the ability to do 2–4 hour performances, covers only, originals only, or a mix depending on what fits the event best.

Whether it’s a brewery, winery, restaurant, private party, or corporate-style event, the goal is always the same: music that fits the room, keeps people comfortable, and adds to the experience rather than distracting from it.

Carter Franks is a Lubbock, TX–based indie/soul rock artist performing solo, most often alongside electric guitarist Ben Appleton. Together, they bring a laid-back but polished sound that works just as well as background music as it does for a room that wants to really listen.

Their sets are a mix of covers and originals, and they’re flexible depending on the venue — full cover sets, full original sets, or a blend of both. Influenced by artists like John Mayer and Jason Mraz, the music leans soulful, melodic, and easy to settle into without feeling boring or overproduced.

Carter and Ben regularly play around Lubbock at places like The Brass Tap, Triple J Chophouse & Brew Co., Mano Negra Brewing, and Brewery LBK. They’re especially at home in wineries, breweries, patios, and other easy-listening spaces, but can adapt to just about any room. Sets typically run anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.

Known for being easy to work with, showing up early, and reading the room well, Carter adjusts the vibe as the night unfolds — whether that means keeping things relaxed or leaning into something more energetic when the crowd’s feeling it. With Ben on electric guitar adding depth and soul to the sound, the performance feels full without being overwhelming.

Carter Franks performs as a solo act or as a duo with electric guitarist Ben Appleton. All performances are fully self-contained. We provide our own professional sound system suitable for small to medium-sized venues, including breweries, wineries, restaurants, patios, and private events.

Setup is clean and compact, with a small footprint and no complicated staging requirements. We typically only need a standard power outlet near the performance area. Lighting is not required, though basic house or ambient lighting is more than enough.

Set lengths are flexible, ranging from 2 to 4 hours, with breaks as needed. Volume is always adjusted to fit the room, and we’re happy to work with venue staff to meet any sound or space constraints.

For larger venues with an in-house sound system, we can plug directly into the house PA if preferred. Load-in and soundcheck are quick, and we arrive early to ensure everything is set up and ready well before start time.