SCOTT KIRBY
"One of the Northwoods’ best and busiest musicians" is how the "Northwoods Live Music Calendar" describes Scott Kirby. From Rhinelander, WI, Scott has been playing music and writing since he was 12. Kirby has six album releases to his credit (Apple Love, Good Morning Jo, B Tapes Vol 1, A day On The Lake, Live at CT's Deli, November Snow), and now is amping up with his current single "Love Is Just" produced by Grammy winning producer Jeff Bova.
In August 2009, Kirby proved his song writing talents when he won First Runner Up at the Big Top Chautauqua songwriters competition. He was selected from hundreds of entries from across the nation ("Alabama Nights", "Travelin Song") and his unique sound made him truly standout among the other songwriters. His performance of "November Snow" secured his opportunity to open for Suzanne Vega in a live performance that also featured Bill and Kate Isles, Heather Styka & the Blue Canvas Orchestra, and was broadcast globally on Tent Show Radio. Performing with Native American artist Kelly Jackson, they've opened up for Bill "Birdsong" Miller, the "new queen of bluegrass" Rhonda Vincent, and the Indigo Girls. In addition he's opened for J.L. Stiles and shared the stage with Sean Kelly (the samples). Kirby also plays bass and sings harmony for Northwoods legend Tuck Pence. He's recorded on Pence's release, "American Relic", which earned Pence a WAMI award for People's Choice in 2010. Kirby also has freelanced with various local groups as a Bass player (including upright), Rythm Guitar player, Lead Guitar player, Harmonica, Pianica, Percussionist & Vocalist.
Don Burnstick describes what Kirby has simply as "mojo". It's that "mojo" that is what has turned out to be Kirby's signature Indie Folk sound. Kirby's musical style is a fine blending of genres. Drawing on a variety of influences, Kirby delivers an undeniably original sound by combining stunning guitar work, harmonica, and gritty in pocket vocals. Kirby's writing style and songform is tasteful as it is smooth. This invokes a very real connection with his listeners. Kirby has an authenticity to his performance that people recognize. Kirby also has a strong sense of humor. He grew up a big fan of John Belushi and Chris Farley.
Kirby's steady schedule of live performances and studio sessions keeps Kirby constantly going, and writing on the way. He also contributes a significant amount of time on charitable endeavors, including Toys For Tots, 91.7 fm WXPR Community Radio in Rhinelander, and many other foundations and public service organizations, including Rhinelander Area Food Pantry, Rhinelander High School Music Department, American Indian Cancer Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Campfire Boys and Girls, Rockin' Tomahawk Marathon, Rhinelander Area Silent Trails Association, Bikers Against Child Abuse, Alzheimers Association, ArtStart Rhinelander, Your Arts Program, YMCA, Angel On My Shoulder, and Honor The Earth.
