Chris Rawlins is an Americana and alt-country songwriter based in Chicago, IL.

“From artfully descriptive lyrics to a deceptively subdued finger style delivery, Chicago songwriter Chris Rawlins has an undeniable grasp of the midwestern mood.” (Old Town School of Folk Music)

 “A rich and unforgettable first album from this Chicago based songwriter.” (Americana UK)

“Rawlins’ first album is timeless, genre-bending and beautiful. No doubt Rawlins’ will strum the heartstrings of listeners, and become an industry name in no time.” (Divide and Conquer Music)

“Musical hooks and lyrical turns that keep you coming back for more.” (Twangville)

“A folk country inflected Leonard Cohen.” (FATEA Records)

“Americana music played without gimmicks and stereotypes” (Dancing About Architecture)

“Effortless musicianship, a debut album that suggests a very bright future indeed. Let it pour.” (FATEA Records)

Photo by Sarah Elizabeth Larson

Photo by Gary Cialdella

Photo by Xiomara Hussein

BIO

When you listen to Chris Rawlins it comes as no surprise that he was first a poet before he was a songwriter. The lyrics draw you right into his world of Midwestern landscapes, childhood homes, cities full of shadows, past lovers and dreamlike memories around every turn.

Then you start to pay attention to his relaxed, smooth vocal delivery. His voice is quiet and humble, yet confident, and will ease all the tension around you— and could ease you to sleep if you weren’t so captivated at every word. “Listen carefully, look out for the detail, let the words soothe you, and let the music amaze you” as Americana UK put it after hearing Rawlins’ debut album.

Chris Rawlins was born in Kalamazoo, MI and currently lives in Chicago, IL. He released a debut album in 2019 called Bring on the Rain, recorded and produced with the help of Old Town School of Folk Music songwriter, teacher, and producer, Steve Dawson. Americana UK called the work “a rich and unforgettable first album,” and Divide and Conquer Music states that “Rawlins’ first album is timeless, genre bending, and beautiful. No doubt Rawlins will strum the heartstrings of listeners and become an industry name in to time.”