The Hipwaders

by Kenyon HopkinSelf-proclaimed performers of "hip music for kids," California pop/rock trio the Hipwaders are Tito Uquillas (vocals, guitar, mandolin, keyboard), Chris Blubaugh (vocals, bass), and Nick Baca (vocals, drums). Blubaugh and Uquillas began working together in the early '90s after meeting at their workplace. The impact of their experiences raising children of their own caused them to direct their music and lyrics toward kids and their parents. The Hipwaders' recordings have earned them Parents Choice Awards and in 2007 they earned a slot at the kids' stage of Lollapalooza in Chicago.