Role

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Composer Performer

Birth

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June 26, 1983 in Bloomington, IL

 

Pokey LaFarge is an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who has gained recognition for his unique blend of traditional jazz, blues, and country music. Born on June 26, 1983, in Bloomington, Illinois, LaFarge grew up in a musical family and was exposed to a wide range of genres from an early age. LaFarge's interest in music began when he was just a child, and he started playing the guitar at the age of 13. He was heavily influenced by the music of Hank Williams, Bob Wills, and other classic country and western swing artists. He also developed a love for early jazz and blues music, which he discovered through his grandfather's record collection. After graduating from high school, LaFarge moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where he began performing in local clubs and bars. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented musician and songwriter, and in 2006, he released his debut album, "Marmalade." The album was well-received by critics and helped to establish LaFarge as a rising star in the world of roots music. Over the next few years, LaFarge continued to hone his craft and develop his unique sound. He released several more albums, including "Riverboat Soul" (2010), "Middle of Everywhere" (2011), and "Pokey LaFarge" (2013). These albums showcased LaFarge's ability to blend traditional styles with modern sensibilities, and they helped to expand his fan base beyond the Midwest. In 2015, LaFarge signed with Rounder Records, a prominent roots music label. He released his first album for the label, "Something in the Water," later that year. The album was a critical and commercial success, earning widespread praise for its catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and vintage sound. It also helped to raise LaFarge's profile even further, and he began to tour extensively throughout the United States and Europe. In 2017, LaFarge released his second album for Rounder Records, "Manic Revelations." The album was a departure from his earlier work, featuring a more polished and produced sound. It also showcased LaFarge's growth as a songwriter, with more introspective and personal lyrics than his previous albums. "Manic Revelations" received positive reviews from critics and helped to solidify LaFarge's reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative artists in roots music. Throughout his career, LaFarge has drawn inspiration from a wide range of musical styles and influences. He has cited artists such as Louis Armstrong, Jimmie Rodgers, and Django Reinhardt as major inspirations, as well as more contemporary artists like Tom Waits and Nick Lowe. He has also been influenced by literature, film, and other forms of art, which he incorporates into his music in subtle and unexpected ways. LaFarge's music is characterized by its vintage sound, catchy melodies, and clever lyrics. He often sings about love, loss, and the struggles of everyday life, but he does so with a sense of humor and a wry wit that sets him apart from other artists in his genre. His live performances are energetic and engaging, and he has a natural charisma that endears him to audiences around the world. In addition to his music career, LaFarge has also dabbled in acting and other creative pursuits. He has appeared in several films and television shows, including the HBO series "Boardwalk Empire" and the film "The Lone Ranger." He has also written a book of poetry, "The Devil Ain't Got No Music," which was published in 2016.

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