Americana singer-songwriter Pony Bradshaw occupies a space somewhere between country, rock and blues. With insightful lyrics and emotive instrumentation, the Mississippi-born artist captured early attention from Rolling Stone and NPR.

Bradshaw didn't take up music until he was in his thirties, but by the time he picked up a guitar, he had plenty to write about. His colorful life experiences, including a short-lived stint in the Air Force, have made their way into his introspective songwriting. After playing open mics and clubs in the American south, he caught the attention of renowned independent label Rounder Records (Alison Krauss & Union Station, Indigo Girls) who signed him in 2018. He released his debut album, Sudden Opera, in 2019.

Now based in Georgia, Bradshaw brings a Southern sensibility to his storytelling, which is soundtracked by reverb-y slide guitar and soulful keys.

Pony Bradshaw Live in Concert

Born James Bradshaw in Mississippi, Pony Bradshaw's father was a military man (as well as an Elvis impersonator), so Bradshaw spent his childhood moving around a lot.

Although Bradshaw enjoyed listening to music as a kid, playing it professionally was not yet a dream of his -- he spent more time playing sports, reading and hanging out with friends.

It wasn't until he performed at an open mic in Chattanooga, Tennessee in his thirties -- a few years after he'd gotten kicked out of the Air Force -- that everything clicked and he knew that he wanted to pursue a career in music.

Bradshaw soon signed to famed Americana and roots label Rounder Records to release his critically acclaimed debut full-length album, Sudden Opera, in 2019. AllMusic noted that the album "paints a moody Southern Gothic world full of regret, redemption, loneliness and desire... and makes a case for creative late bloomers, as Bradshaw arrives on the scene seemingly in full bloom with plenty to say."

Influenced by musical heroes Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, as well as 19th century French authors, poets and painters, Bradshaw is fascinated by the many facets of the human condition, and expresses his reflections through his songwriting.

Pony Bradshaw FAQ

What is Pony Bradshaw's musical style?

Pony Bradshaw's musical style is a mix between country, rock, and blues.

When did Pony Bradshaw start playing music?

Pony Bradshaw didn't start playing music until he was in his thirties.

What inspired Pony Bradshaw's songwriting?

Pony Bradshaw's introspective songwriting is inspired by his colorful life experiences, including his short-lived stint in the Air Force.

When was Pony Bradshaw's debut album released?

Pony Bradshaw's debut album, Sudden Opera, was released in 2019.