Scott Downes

"Downes is an incredible storyteller and his songs, so rich in detail, hold the emotion of a life lived fully."
- Jed Marston,
The Pulse

Hailing from Montgomery, Alabama, Scott Downes has been writing and performing his original songs for almost 20 years. He was raised on a rich blend of Southern roots music including the Delta blues, funk, soul, and just the right mix of country and English and Irish Folk ballads to make him an exemplary storyteller.

Drawing on his unusual blend of influences, Scott created a lyrical style all his own. His songs are powerful and vivid, revealing an intensity of emotion and an extraordinary way of experiencing everyday life. 'Your Card' puts him on stage as a magician grown tired of his own act in an allegory that's a pleasure to unravel. In 'Still Life' Scott sings "I'll paint you a picture out of gravel and dust/I'll sing you a story and I'll lie if I must," and when he does, you're no longer just a witness to the experience -- you're part of the story.

These snapshots of life offer hints to the winding path Scott followed to get here. He started playing guitar and writing songs as a teenager living in Montgomery. While studying literature at Duke University on a full scholarship, he fronted several bands that played throughout North Carolina, enjoying radio airplay and receiving critical acclaim. In 1994, he moved to Atlanta where he played with a variety of local musicians. Today, Scott continues to perform throughout the south and along the east coast as a solo artist.

His acoustic lo-fi plays comfortably alongside artists like Elliott Smith, Wilco, Ben Folds, Iron and Wine, John Mayer, and other modern traditionalists. Scott lives in Atlanta with his wife and sons Brendan and Beckett. His next album is due later this year.

His most recent performances include gigs at Red Light Cafe, Inman Perk, Swallow at the Hollow, Java Monkey, Atlanta Brewing Company, and CRS in New York City. Scott has also recently played house concerts in Alabama and New York.