Irwin Finger
As Roaming the Arts followers may have already guessed, I support artists both known and overlooked. RTA especially supports artists seen or known from personal connections. Irwin Finger has delighted folk audiences for over fifty years. Most recently he has performed a “live song” every morning for all of us cranky shut-ins.
Along that line and the recent passing of John Prine check out his sweet rendition of “Hello in There.”
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Luke Brindley
Luke Brindley
“The rambling acoustic environment of New Morning—era Dylan and the smokiness of early Townes Van Zandt…his own compelling musical voice.” – Acoustic Guitar
In his own words…
I’ve been obsessed with writing songs and the guitar for as long as I can remember. I married young, am an adoptive parent, and the son of a preacher man. I toured a lot for years and put out a few records as Luke Brindley, Brindley Brothers, and Native Run. I spent a lot of time in Nashville writing with some of the top writers in the business. I never quite fit into (or cared about) “the business”. I grew up in New Jersey but live outside of Washington, DC. Along with my brothers, I run Jammin Java in Vienna, VA – one of the Top 100 Clubs In The World and Union Stage in Washington, DC
The songs have a definite focus on the lyrics and hopefully offer a kind of deeper perspective. I tend to gravitate toward the larger worldview questions such as, Why are we here? What are we supposed to be doing? What does it mean to know another person? To love someone?
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D.K. Harrell
D.K. Harrell is a prominent young American blues singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for his soulful vocals, stinging guitar style, and dynamic stage presence. Born in Ruston, Louisiana, in 1998, Harrell was heavily influenced by B.B. King from an early age, learning King’s music, tone, and stage craft by studying concert footage. This dedication led to an invitation to play one of King’s iconic “Lucille” guitars at the B.B. King Symposium in 2019, his first paying gig.
Harrell quickly made a name for himself in the blues world, winning the 2022 B.B. King “King of the Blues” Award and finishing third in the International Blues Challenge. His 2023 debut album, The Right Man on the Little Village Foundation label, received critical acclaim for its 11 original songs and blend of blues, soul, funk, and gospel elements. The album earned him the 2024 Blues Music Award in the “Best Emerging Artist Album” category.
Now signed to the legendary Alligator Records, Harrell released his second album, Talkin’ Heavy, in June 2025. The album, produced by Christoffer “Kid” Andersen, features twelve original tracks that cement his place among the new generation of blues stars, showcasing his ability to bridge traditional blues with a modern, fresh perspective. At just 27 years old, Harrell is hailed as a leading light of the younger generation of blues artists, bringing a vital energy and authenticity to the genre. Known for his magnetic stage presence, dapper tuxedo attire, and engaging interaction with the audience, Harrell is dedicated to preserving the blues while ensuring it resonates with contemporary audiences. He has toured extensively across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, performing at major festivals and captivating audiences with his high-energy, unpredictable live shows. As Blues Blast called him, he is “The fastest-rising talent in the blues today.”
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Paul Thorn
Paul Thorn
Paul Thorn is a singular figure in American music, blending the grit of a former professional boxer with the soul of a Mississippi songwriter. Born in Tupelo and raised as the son of a Pentecostal preacher, Thorn’s upbringing in the church—and later, his time spent in his uncle’s pimp-turned-prodigal-son circle—provided him with a rich tapestry of characters and moral complexities that define his work. His music is a unique fusion of Americana, blues, rock, and gospel, often delivered with a sharp, self-deprecating wit.Before finding success in the music industry, Thorn made headlines in the ring, most notably for his 1988 televised bout against world champion Roberto Durán. Though he didn’t win, that same tenacity carried over to his songwriting. He is celebrated for his storytelling, capturing the struggles and small victories of everyday people in songs like “800 Pound Jesus” and “I Don’t Like Half the Folks I Love.” His career is a testament to authenticity, reflecting a man who has lived through sin and salvation alike, consistently offering a “softer touch” to life’s rougher patches.
See many great videos linked on his website.
For “relationship smiles,” watch these favorites: “Just Stay Married” and “Temporarily Forever.”
