A Conversation with Sean Rowe

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Last year singer-songwriter Sean Rowe traveled the country playing a series of concerts in the homes of some incredibly lucky fans. Sean, his guitar, the lucky fans, their friends, his family and ‘electric’ energy is all he needed. In his latest album, Madman, Sean delivers the same sense of simplicity and emotional vigor that his house concerts produced. Recently, I traveled three hours, yes, three hours each way to experience the allure of Sean’s live performances at the intimate and well known folk venue Caffe Lena in Saratoga, NY. I’ve been waiting a long time for a musician to hit me the way only few have and after this show I must say that Sean did just that.

A Conversation with Sean Rowe

Several musicians over the years have inspired Sean’s style, however he is a shimmering gold star of his own. While watching him perform one of his earlier songs, “Wet“, I relished in his craft as he cleverly intertwined his heavy raw voice with what I can only describe as gorgeous and soulful notes. The stark contraction was unexpected, pure, and utterly addicting. At one point, I literally caught myself holding my breath as he played. Another tune that I absolutely loved was “Shine My Diamond Ring.” Keeping in character with Sean’s self-produced Madman album, this tune evolved under the spirit of delta blues’ guitars, in particular John Lee Hooker. As Sean played, I felt the pounding bluesy guitar riffs shake the room, creating an almost underlying chaotic state that left the crowd hypnotized. It is undeniable that his music comes from deep inside his soul. It’s insane! Sean’s performance of “Madman” and “My Little Man” showcased another defining characteristic of Sean’s music by revealing honest and heartfelt lyrics. Alongside the soulful harmonica, the songs talk about the difficulties of spending time apart from his family to work and the constant worries of parenthood. You don’t have to be a parent to understand the struggles that Sean’s music poetically expresses.

Sean Rowe- Shine My Diamond Ring

During the show Sean took the time to explain his insight behind several of his songs which for me further highlights his charming and genuine connection to his music. Sean’s ending song, a cover of Richard Thompson’s 1952 “Vincent Black Lightning,” featured his ridiculous guitar skills as he intensely jammed away exploring different rhythms and roots. In his blog- rowehouseconcerts.com– Sean playfully stated that during one of his house concerts his little man, Jack, fell asleep during his performance of this song which is sweetly humorous yet almost unfathomable as its not a song you would ever forget. All together, with his incredibly unique voice and riveting guitar style Sean is a rare find and definitely should not be missed! After the show, Sean sat with me to answer some questions varying from his first musical experience to musicians he would like to collaborate with. Check out the first video on top to see the full interview.

Writer + Video / Elizabeth Ramirez
Press Photo/ Anthony Saint James