I grew up in Virginia to the sounds of Appalachian folk, bluegrass, gospel, blues and motown. My mother and father both have a deep love of music and have always encouraged me to play an instrument. I've been playing guitar since I was 14, banjo since I was 16 and grew up singing in church and at home. 

 

The first songwriting influence of my life was my dad, who will spontaneously make up a song about anything - especially my mother's beauty. When I started playing guitar it seemed natural to write my own songs. 

 

​I love considering life's ultimate concerns in my songs; such as the meaning of life and chocolate cake. I try to weave stories and experiences into each song with striking but simple melodies.