Ian George
Born and raised in the deciduous forests of Minnesota, Ian George’s musical expression (both on and off the stage) reflects the ephemeral seasonal landscapes he was bred in. George has founded and led a handful of bands (some including members of Billy Strings and Caleb Klauder Band); touring extensively through the US, Canada, and Europe and gracing some of the western world's most beloved festivals and venues. In the summer of 2018 Ian performed his debut set at the Cambridge Folk Festival in Cambridge, England. In 2019, Ian released his debut solo album Kingdom of My Youth - recorded in Paris, France at famed Labo M Studios with French pop icon Matthieu Chedid. The album charted on the national NACC Folk charts 7 consecutive weeks. Ian’s most recent release, Post-Corona*, was shortlisted at WXPN’s 2021 Non-Comm Convention as top 10 songs of the year to consider. He is currently based between Minneapolis and somewhere deep in the Oregon wildreness.
The live performance teems with whimsicality, clever arrangements interrupted by triumphant tangents, and outlandish solos grounded by George’s gauzy voice and by the simple strength of a good song. Expect an engaging and dynamic string of gentle and not so gentle folk-rock adventures. Ian prepares to release his sophomore LP autumn 2023.
George plays solo, duo, or with a full band - accompanied by some of Minneapolis’ most acclaimed and eclectic musicians.
Now booking 2023/2024 concerts and festivals in the USA
“Dreamy musical landscapes and a gorgeous voice.”
- The Current (MPR)
“Ian George is a fanciful folk troubadour with a rhythmic flow and spirited vision. He’s an American Matt Corby; a heartwarming blend of Iron & Wine’s folk and Vampire Weekend’s frisky energy. George’s music is the type to which one would ascribe words like frolic and wandering, but his songs are equally intimate and emotional... Worthy of everyone’s ears, songs we can teach our children, our parents, our grandparents, and ourselves.”
- Atwood Magazine
“Effulgent eclecticism. George's forward-looking new offering is a subtle explosion of vibrant colors that delight.”
- PopMatters
“There’s a gauzy float to George’s voice that calls up John Martyn.”