2025 Kerrville Folk Festival Lineup with Artist Biographies

Thursday, May 22 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

Lucy Clearwater (7 pm)
Lucy Clearwater is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter who splits her time between LA and Berlin. She was a winner of the 2024 New Folk Competition at Kerrville Folk Festival and released an EP titled “April” in 2024. Known for her emotive and vulnerable music, Lucy also sings in German and released a German-language EP called “Augenlieder.”

Jeffrey Foucault (8 pm)
Jeffrey Foucault is an American songwriter and record producer born January 26, 1976, in Whitewater, Wisconsin. His music blends influences from American country, blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and folk traditions. With over two decades on the road, he’s become known for his “stark, literate songs” and released his latest album “THE UNIVERSAL FIRE” in September 2024. He’s married to fellow musician Kris Delmhorst.

Sean McConnell (9 pm)
Sean McConnell is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter known for his emotionally charged lyrics and soulful voice. Beyond his solo career, he’s written songs for artists like Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, and Brad Paisley. His music seamlessly blends folk, country, and rock elements with deeply personal storytelling that often examines themes of spirituality, relationships, and self-discovery.

The Wilder Blue (10 pm)
The Wilder Blue is a Texas-based Americana/country band that blends elements of country, bluegrass, folk, and rock. The group is known for their tight harmonies and sophisticated songwriting, creating a sound that honors traditional country music while incorporating contemporary elements.

Friday, May 23 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

Lily Talmers (7 pm)
Lily Talmers is a folk singer-songwriter known for her intricate fingerpicking guitar style and literary-inspired lyrics. Her music draws from traditional folk, classical influences, and world music traditions, creating a sound that’s both familiar and distinctive. Her thoughtful songwriting often explores philosophical themes and personal narratives with poetic precision.

Adeem the Artist (8 pm)
Adeem the Artist is a Southern singer-songwriter who explores complex themes of identity, faith, and social issues through their music. With a thoughtful approach to traditional country and folk sounds, they’ve gained critical acclaim for albums that challenge conventional narratives while honoring roots music traditions. Their songwriting combines personal storytelling with broader social commentary.

Dale Watson (9 pm)
Dale Watson is a honky-tonk hero and country music maverick based in Austin, Texas. Known for his distinctive deep voice and traditional country sound, Watson has championed a subgenre he calls “Ameripolitan” – original music with prominent roots influence. He’s an outspoken critic of the contemporary country music industry and has released numerous albums celebrating authentic country traditions.

The Hooten Hallers (10 pm)
The Hooten Hallers are a high-energy trio that blends elements of blues, rock, and country into their distinctive sound. Known for their raw, gritty performances and instrumental configuration that includes baritone saxophone, the band delivers a powerful live experience that draws from traditional American roots music while creating something uniquely their own.

Saturday, May 24 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

Creekbed Carter Hogan (7 pm)
Creekbed Carter Hogan is an emerging folk artist known for a uniquely authentic approach to American roots music. Drawing inspiration from traditional folk, old-time music, and country blues, their performances often feature vintage guitar techniques and traditional song forms reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.

Gabe Lee (8 pm)
Gabe Lee is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter who blends Americana, country, and rock influences. Known for his literate lyrics and dynamic vocal delivery, Lee creates music that honors traditional country storytelling while incorporating contemporary themes and sounds. His songwriting often addresses the complexities of modern life while maintaining strong roots in traditional music forms.

The Secret Sisters (9 pm)
The Secret Sisters are a vocal duo consisting of sisters Laura Rogers and Lydia Slagle from Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Known for their pristine harmonies and vintage sound, they blend traditional country, folk, and Southern gospel influences. After facing career challenges, they were championed by producer Brandi Carlile, helping them achieve wider recognition for their traditional yet contemporary approach to Americana music.

YARN (10 pm)
YARN is a Brooklyn-born Americana/roots band that has become a staple in the jam band and festival scene. Led by singer-songwriter Blake Christiana, the group blends elements of country, bluegrass, folk, and rock into a dynamic, high-energy sound. Their prolific touring schedule has earned them a dedicated fanbase, and they’re known for memorable live performances that showcase both tight musicianship and emotional resonance.

Sunday, May 25 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

Rachel Sumner (7 pm)
Rachel Sumner is a classically trained flutist turned folk songwriter who previously performed as part of the bluegrass band Twisted Pine. Since launching her solo career, she’s gained recognition for her intricate guitar work, crystalline vocals, and sophisticated songwriting that draws from both traditional folk and classical influences. Her music often features detailed narrative storytelling and complex arrangements.

Émilie Clepper (8 pm)
Émilie Clepper is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter who splits her time between Quebec and Texas, creating music that reflects both her Franco-American heritage and her diverse musical influences. With a warm, distinctive voice, she blends folk, Americana, and French chanson traditions. Her bilingual performances and bicultural perspective give her music a unique quality that resonates with audiences across borders.

Handmade Moments (9 pm)
Handmade Moments is a duo composed of Anna Moss and Joel Ludford, who create genre-defying music that combines elements of folk, jazz, soul, and hip-hop. Known for their instrumental versatility (switching between saxophone, upright bass, banjo, and more) and engaging live performances, they’ve developed a sound that’s both earthy and sophisticated. After surviving a serious bus accident in 2016, their music has taken on themes of resilience and gratitude.

Peter Rowan (10 pm)
Peter Rowan is a Grammy-winning bluegrass musician with a career spanning over six decades. He began his professional career in 1964 as the vocalist and guitarist for Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys and has since collaborated with Jerry Garcia, David Grisman, and many other notable artists. His musical style encompasses not just bluegrass but also elements of folk, country, rock, and even reggae influences.

Monday, May 26 – Threadgill Theater

In Memoriam Celebration
A special tribute event honoring influential folk musicians and festival contributors who have passed away.

Fox Run Five (7 pm)
Fox Run Five is an emerging Americana band noted for their tight harmonies and collaborative songwriting approach. With multiple vocalists and a diverse instrumental lineup, they create music that honors traditional folk and country while incorporating contemporary elements. Their performances often feature storytelling interludes that provide context for their songs and engage audiences on a personal level.

Tuesday, May 27 – Threadgill Theater

Robin Bienemann (7 pm)
Robin Bienemann is a skilled guitarist and songwriter known for blending folk traditions with jazz influences and a quirky sense of humor. His performances showcase both technical proficiency and storytelling charm, often incorporating witty wordplay and unexpected musical turns. His approachable stage presence and musical versatility have made him a respected figure in folk and songwriter circles.

J Wagner (8 pm)
J Wagner is a thoughtful songwriter whose music draws from folk, Americana, and indie rock traditions. Known for his poetic lyrics and warm vocal delivery, Wagner creates songs that balance personal reflection with broader observations about the human condition. His performances often create an intimate atmosphere that invites listeners into the emotional world of his music.

Wednesday, May 28 – Threadgill Theater

Andrew Delaney (7 pm)
Andrew Delaney is a Texas-based songwriter known for his literary approach to folk music. With a background in poetry and a keen eye for detail, his songs often unfold like short stories, populated by vivid characters and rich imagery. His performances balance thoughtful introspection with moments of humor and narrative suspense.

Andy Gullahorn (8 pm)
Andy Gullahorn is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter known for his thoughtful lyrics, skilled guitar work, and disarming humor. Often addressing faith, relationships, and personal growth, his songs combine emotional depth with unexpected wit. Beyond his solo work, he’s a respected songwriter in the folk and Christian music communities, known for both his craft and his authentic approach to difficult topics.

Thursday, May 29 – Threadgill Theater

KC Clifford (7 pm)
KC Clifford is an award-winning folk singer-songwriter known for her emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Drawing from personal experience, her songs often explore themes of resilience, hope, and human connection. With multiple albums to her credit, she’s built a career on authentic storytelling and memorable melodies that resonate with listeners on a personal level.

Mia Borders (8 pm)
Mia Borders is a New Orleans-based singer-songwriter and guitarist whose music blends soul, funk, and blues with elements of rock and folk. Known for her powerful vocals and compelling stage presence, Borders has established herself as a distinctive voice in the Gulf Coast music scene. Her songwriting often addresses social issues while maintaining a groove-oriented approach that reflects her New Orleans musical heritage.

Next of Kin (9 pm)
Next of Kin is a roots music collective that brings together traditional folk instrumentation with contemporary songwriting sensibilities. Their sound often features rich vocal harmonies and instrumental interplay between fiddle, mandolin, guitar, and upright bass. Drawing from American folk traditions while incorporating modern influences, they create music that connects historical roots with present-day experiences.

Hayes Carll (10 pm)
Joshua Hayes Carll (born January 9, 1976) is an American singer-songwriter from The Woodlands, Texas, whose roots-oriented songwriting is known for its plainspoken poetry and sarcastic humor. Described as a “dry-witted folk musician,” his unassuming music comes to life with amusing anecdotes and Texas-inspired blues. His 2021 album “You Get It All” embraced a purer country influence, and he has been nominated for a Grammy Award.

Friday, May 30 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

KC Clifford (7pm)
KC Clifford is an award-winning folk singer-songwriter known for her emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Drawing from personal experience, her songs often explore themes of resilience, hope, and human connection. With multiple albums to her credit, she’s built a career on authentic storytelling and memorable melodies that resonate with listeners on a personal level.

Mia Borders (8pm)
Mia Borders is a New Orleans-based singer-songwriter and guitarist whose music blends soul, funk, and blues with elements of rock and folk. Known for her powerful vocals and compelling stage presence, Borders has established herself as a distinctive voice in the Gulf Coast music scene. Her songwriting often addresses social issues while maintaining a groove-oriented approach that reflects her New Orleans musical heritage.

Next of Kin (9pm)
Next of Kin is a roots music collective that brings together traditional folk instrumentation with contemporary songwriting sensibilities. Their sound often features rich vocal harmonies and instrumental interplay between fiddle, mandolin, guitar, and upright bass. Drawing from American folk traditions while incorporating modern influences, they create music that connects historical roots with present-day experiences.

Hayes Carll (10pm)
Joshua Hayes Carll (born January 9, 1976) is an American singer-songwriter from The Woodlands, Texas, whose roots-oriented songwriting is known for its plainspoken poetry and sarcastic humor. Described as a “dry-witted folk musician,” his unassuming music comes to life with amusing anecdotes and Texas-inspired blues. His 2021 album “You Get It All” embraced a purer country influence, and he has been nominated for a Grammy Award.

Saturday, May 31 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

BettySoo (7pm)
BettySoo is an Austin-based singer-songwriter known for her crystalline voice and insightful songwriting. Of Korean-American heritage, she brings a unique perspective to Americana music while addressing universal themes of love, loss, and identity. Beyond her solo work, she’s collaborated with numerous Texas musicians and been part of projects like Nobody’s Girl (with Rebecca Loebe and Grace Pettis). Her performances are marked by emotional vulnerability and moments of unexpected humor.

Goodnight, Texas (8 pm)
Goodnight, Texas is a folk-rock band named after the geographic midpoint between the hometowns of its two primary songwriters, Avi Vinocur and Patrick Dyer Wolf. Their music draws inspiration from American history and folklore, with songs that often transport listeners to different historical eras. With a sound that combines traditional folk instruments with contemporary production, they create music that feels both timeless and current.

Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore (9 pm)
This collaboration brings together two legendary figures in American roots music. Dave Alvin, a founding member of The Blasters, is known for his blend of rock, folk, blues, and country, while Jimmie Dale Gilmore’s distinctive tenor voice and cosmic cowboy approach made him a central figure in the Texas outlaw country movement with The Flatlanders. Together, they create music that honors traditional American genres while showcasing their distinctive individual styles.

Shovels & Rope (10 pm)
Shovels & Rope is an American folk duo from Charleston, South Carolina, composed of husband and wife Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst. They blend traditional folk, rock and roll, and country rock in their music. The band’s seventh album “Something Is Working Up Above My Head” was released in September 2024. Known for their emotional bond on stage, they alternate between drums and guitars during performances, building intensity throughout their sets.

Sunday, June 1 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

Nicky Diamonds (7 pm)
Nicky Diamonds is an emerging singer-songwriter whose music blends folk traditions with contemporary influences. Known for thoughtful lyrics and an engaging stage presence, Diamonds creates songs that explore personal narratives while connecting with universal emotions. Their performances often create an intimate atmosphere that invites listeners into a world of authentic storytelling.

Prophets and Outlaws (8 pm)
Prophets and Outlaws is a Texas-based band that blends Southern soul, country, and rock into a distinctive sound they call “Texas soul.” Known for their energetic performances and soulful vocals, the band has built a dedicated following through extensive touring and a series of well-received releases. Their music often features rich harmonies, groove-oriented rhythms, and themes that resonate with Southern musical traditions.

The Peterson Brothers (9 pm)
The Peterson Brothers are a blues, funk, and soul band led by siblings Glenn Jr. and Alex Peterson. Despite their youth, they’ve already established themselves as virtuosic instrumentalists carrying forward blues traditions while incorporating elements of funk, jazz, and soul. Their dynamic live performances showcase both their instrumental prowess and deep appreciation for American roots music traditions.

FRUITION (10 pm)
FRUITION is a Portland, Oregon-based band that blends elements of folk-rock, Americana, soul, and bluegrass. Known for their three-part harmonies and collaborative songwriting approach, the band has evolved from acoustic street performers to a dynamic touring act with a devoted following. Their music balances rootsy instrumentation with modern sensibilities, creating a sound that honors tradition while pushing creative boundaries.

Monday, June 2 – Threadgill Theater

Karyn Oliver (7pm)
Karyn Oliver is a folk singer-songwriter known for her warm vocals and thoughtful, often narrative-driven songs. Drawing from Americana, country, and blues influences, Oliver creates music that connects personal stories with broader themes of resilience and human connection. Her performances balance emotional depth with an approachable, engaging stage presence.

Daniel Neihoff (8 pm)
Daniel Neihoff is a Kentucky-born singer-songwriter whose music draws from folk, Americana, and country traditions. Known for his authentic approach and distinctive voice, Neihoff writes songs that often explore rural life, personal struggle, and resilience. His performances showcase both his songwriting craft and his ability to connect with audiences through straightforward, emotionally honest storytelling.

Tuesday, June 3 – Threadgill Theater

Jenny Reynolds (7 pm)
Jenny Reynolds is an Austin-based folk singer-songwriter known for her thoughtful lyrics and engaging performances. With influences ranging from traditional folk to blues and rock, she creates music that balances personal narratives with broader social observations. A respected figure in the Austin music community, Reynolds brings both craft and authenticity to her songwriting.

Tim Easton (8 pm)
Tim Easton is a seasoned songwriter and guitarist whose music draws from folk, blues, and rock traditions. Having built his career through extensive touring and a series of well-received albums, Easton is known for his distinctive voice, skilled guitar work, and songs that often explore both personal experiences and American landscapes. His performances showcase both his musical versatility and his storytelling abilities.

Wednesday, June 4 – Threadgill Theater

RJ Cowdery (7 pm)
RJ Cowdery is a folk singer-songwriter known for her distinctive fingerstyle guitar playing and songs that combine personal reflection with universal themes. Having come to professional music later in life, her songwriting often brings a mature perspective to themes of change, resilience, and human connection. Her performances are marked by technical skill, emotional authenticity, and a gentle humor.

Joe Filisko & Eric Noden (8 pm)
This duo brings together two masters of traditional American blues. Joe Filisko is an acclaimed harmonica player who has helped preserve and extend traditional blues harmonica techniques, while Eric Noden is a skilled guitarist versed in pre-war blues styles. Together, they create music that honors the history of acoustic blues while bringing fresh energy to these traditions.

Thursday, June 5 – Threadgill Theater

R.O. Shapiro (7 pm)
R.O. Shapiro is a singer-songwriter whose music combines folk traditions with literary sensibilities. Known for poetic lyrics and a distinctive vocal style, Shapiro creates songs that often explore themes of nature, time, and human experience. Drawing from various folk traditions while maintaining a contemporary relevance, his music creates a bridge between past and present.

Steve Fisher (8 pm)
Steve Fisher is a respected guitarist and songwriter with deep roots in folk and bluegrass traditions. Known for his technical skill and traditional approach, Fisher creates music that honors the history of American folk while incorporating personal perspectives. His performances often showcase both his instrumental prowess and his knowledge of traditional musical forms.

Friday, June 6 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

Scott Mulvahill (7 pm)
Scott Mulvahill is an innovative bassist and songwriter who has created a unique approach to folk and Americana music. Known for his virtuosic upright bass playing and rich vocals, Mulvahill writes songs that showcase both his instrumental skill and thoughtful lyrics. Having performed with Ricky Skaggs’ Kentucky Thunder before launching his solo career, he brings technical excellence and musical depth to his performances.

Caleb Caudle (8 pm)
Caleb Caudle is a North Carolina-based singer-songwriter whose music blends traditional country influences with contemporary Americana sensibilities. Known for his warm vocals and narrative songwriting, Caudle creates music that honors country traditions while addressing modern experiences. His albums have earned critical acclaim for their authentic approach to roots music.

Carsie Blanton (9 pm)
Carsie Blanton is a singer-songwriter known for her blend of folk, jazz, and pop influences, coupled with witty, often provocative lyrics. With a playful stage presence and serious musical chops, Blanton creates songs that address political and social issues alongside personal themes, all delivered with charm and musical sophistication. Her performances balance humor with depth, engaging audiences intellectually and emotionally.

Band of Heathens (10 pm)
The Band of Heathens is an Austin-based rock group known for their eclectic sound that incorporates elements of classic rock, country, soul, and blues. With multiple songwriters and vocalists, they create music marked by thoughtful lyrics, instrumental versatility, and strong harmonies. Their collaborative approach to songwriting and arranging gives their albums a diverse yet cohesive quality that has earned them a devoted following in the Americana scene.

Saturday, June 7 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

Lila Blue (7 pm)
Lila Blue is a young singer-songwriter whose mature musical vision belies her age. Drawing from folk traditions while incorporating contemporary elements, she creates songs marked by poetic lyrics, distinctive vocals, and emotional depth. Her music often explores complex emotional territory with nuance and insight, establishing her as a compelling new voice in folk music.

Chris Smither (8 pm)
Chris Smither is a veteran blues-folk artist whose career spans several decades. Known for his masterful fingerpicking guitar style, deep vocals, and philosophical lyrics, Smither has created a body of work that balances blues traditions with thoughtful songwriting. His performances showcase both his technical skill and the wisdom accumulated through a lifetime in music.

John Craigie (9pm)
John Craigie is a storytelling folk singer whose performances blend music with humorous, insightful narratives. Often compared to Mitch Hedberg and Arlo Guthrie, Craigie creates an intimate, engaging atmosphere in his shows, combining traditional folk influences with contemporary observations. His approach to performance emphasizes connection with audiences through both song and story.

Urban Pioneers (10 pm)
Urban Pioneers is a string band that brings fresh energy to traditional American music forms including old-time, bluegrass, and early country. Known for their high-energy performances and instrumental skill, the band creates music that honors historical traditions while incorporating contemporary themes and energy. Their performances showcase both technical proficiency and an infectious enthusiasm for roots music.

Sunday, June 8 – Kennedy Outdoor Theater

Rainbow Girls (7 pm)
Rainbow Girls is a California-based folk trio composed of Vanessa May, Erin Chapin, and Caitlin Gowdey. Known for their stunning three-part harmonies and socially conscious lyrics, they blend folk traditions with elements of soul and rock. Originally starting as a larger collective, the trio format has allowed them to highlight their vocal chemistry while addressing themes of environmental concern, social justice, and personal growth in their songwriting.

Bob Schneider (8 pm)
Bob Schneider is an Austin music scene fixture known for his genre-defying approach and prolific output. Moving between rock, folk, country, and experimental sounds, his music is marked by clever wordplay, unexpected sonic choices, and emotional directness. A legendary performer in Texas, Schneider has maintained his independence throughout his career while building a devoted fanbase through his engaging live shows and consistent artistic evolution.

Rock Bottom String Band (9 pm)
Rock Bottom String Band is a group that combines traditional string band instrumentation with contemporary energy and sensibilities. Drawing from bluegrass, old-time, and folk traditions, they create music that honors historical forms while bringing fresh perspectives and energy. Their performances showcase instrumental prowess, tight harmonies, and an infectious enthusiasm that connects with diverse audiences.