selwyn birchwood

Biography

Selwyn Birchwood, born February 3, 1985, in Orlando, Florida, is a dynamic modern blues artist celebrated for his innovative approach to the genre[5]. Raised in a multicultural household—his father was a commercial pilot from Trinidad and his mother from the United Kingdom—Birchwood was exposed to a diverse range of musical influences early on[5]. His passion for blues ignited at age 18 after witnessing a live performance by Buddy Guy, which inspired him to pursue the genre with fervor[2]. While still a teenager, Birchwood joined the band of legendary bluesman Sonny Rhodes, who became a pivotal mentor and imparted invaluable lessons about authenticity and musicianship[5]. Birchwood balanced his musical ambitions with academics, earning an MBA from the University of Tampa, a testament to his discipline and drive[1][6].

Birchwood's career accelerated after forming The Selwyn Birchwood Band in 2010, assembling seasoned musicians drawn to his talent and vision[1]. His self-released debut, "FL Boy" (2011), helped the band gain recognition beyond Florida. In 2013, Birchwood won the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, which led to a contract with Alligator Records[1][2]. His debut album for the label, "Don't Call No Ambulance" (2014), garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards, including the Blues Music Award for Best New Artist Debut[1]. Subsequent releases, such as "Pick Your Poison" (2016), "Living In A Burning House" (2021), and "Exorcist" (2023), have further established Birchwood as a leading voice in contemporary blues, blending deep blues, psychedelic rock, funk, and Southern soul into what he calls "Electric Swamp Funkin' Blues"[1][3][4].

Birchwood's legacy is defined by his commitment to originality and his ability to push the boundaries of blues while honoring its traditions. His soulful vocals, blistering guitar work, and clever songwriting have earned praise from major publications and a devoted following. Birchwood continues to tour internationally, bringing his electrifying performances and visionary sound to audiences worldwide[1][4].

Fun Facts

• Selwyn Birchwood holds an MBA from the University of Tampa, combining business acumen with musical talent[1][6].
• He calls his signature sound "Electric Swamp Funkin' Blues," blending blues, rock, funk, and soul[1][3].
• Birchwood won the International Blues Challenge in Memphis in 2013, beating 150 other bands[1].
• His song "I'd Climb Mountains" won the 2022 Blues Music Award for Song of the Year[4].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Sonny Rhodes - Blues legend and bandleader; Birchwood joined his band as a teenager and learned essential lessons about authenticity and the blues lifestyle. (Live performances, touring band) [Early 2000s]
• Buddy Guy - Inspirational figure; seeing Guy live at age 18 inspired Birchwood to pursue blues music. (Influence on musical direction) [2003]
• Jimi Hendrix - Stylistic influence; Hendrix's innovative guitar work inspired Birchwood's approach to blues and rock. (Influence on guitar style) [Ongoing]

Key Collaborators

• Regi Oliver - Baritone saxophonist and key member of the Selwyn Birchwood Band, known for dynamic interplay with Birchwood's guitar. (All albums and live performances) [2010–present]
• Tom Hambridge - Grammy-winning producer of Birchwood's album "Exorcist". ("Exorcist" (2023)) [2023]

Artists Influenced

• No widely documented individual artists - Birchwood is recognized for inspiring a new generation of blues musicians through his innovative style and award-winning performances. (International Blues Challenge, Alligator Records releases) [2013–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Lost In You (Pick Your Poison)
2. Walking In The Lion's Den (Don't Call No Ambulance)
3. Living In A Burning House (Living In A Burning House)
4. Brown Paper Bag (Don't Call No Ambulance)
5. Pick Your Poison (Pick Your Poison)
6. Addicted (Don't Call No Ambulance)
7. I Got Drunk, Laid And Stoned (Living In A Burning House)
8. Love Me Again (Don't Call No Ambulance)
9. Living In A Burning House (Living In A Burning House)
10. Even The Saved Need Saving (Pick Your Poison)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz