Woody Russell

Visit Woody Russell on the web!

Award-winning vocalist, guitarist and songwriter

Texas Commission On The Arts Touring Roster Artist – “deemed the best in their field by a panel of statewide experts”

“A wallop of pop-infused jazz, rock and soul… fascinating hues
of ingenious songwriting.” – Jazz Quarterly

Critically acclaimed, award winning vocalist, guitarist and composer, Woody Russell, is a contemporary troubadour with one foot in the jazz and blues tradition and the other planted firmly in defiance of any genre categorization. He’s released a body of recorded work that spans from the folk-roots infused songwriter fare of his first album, …as simple as that (1996) to the more recent and highly praised blues/soul release of Up Against It (2010) and his latest recording, Delicious Days (2013); a new album infused with sophisticated arrangements and harmony more closely associated with jazz. The Austin, Texas based Russell has always been a genre-blurring artist and Delicious Days is no exception. As a lyricist, Woody digs deep in to intimate, personal narratives while equally at home addressing a broader social consciousness. And, not unlike a primary influence of his, Van Morrison, Russell navigates the melody and rhythm of his written word with a precision and expression akin to a jazz improvisor. The end result in the case of Delicious Days is a lush, complex recording with a soul-jazz heart, created by a master craftsman and a superb band. It’s an album which, amid the musical intricacies, is brimming with very accessible songs.

“He’s got some powerful, gut-emanating pipes, full of soul and deeply-felt conviction. He immediately drew attention with his intricate finger work. The packed crowd was roaring…eclectic and unique and worth more than the price of admission.” – Chart Magazine

“5 Stars… this is the best album I’ve heard in 2013 and the competition isn’t even close.” – Muzik Reviews

He’s shared billing with artists ranging from Elvis Costello, Richard Thompson, Steve Earle and Paul Thorn to Jimmy Vaughan and Tommy Castro at theaters, nightclubs and major festivals, including the prestigious Newport Folk Festival. Critically praised as an “exemplary” guitarist, an “exceptional singer” and songwriter of the highest caliber – a “total artist package”, Woody Russell delivers seasoned performances with over twenty-five years as a professional musician to his credit. Respected music industry veteran and President of BE Music and Entertainment, Michael Blanton, calls him “one of the best kept secrets in the world of live performance today.” Blues Revue offers that, as a guitarist, Russell possesses the “fearlessness of Jeff Beck”.