Wyatt Espalin
Wyatt Espalin is an award-winning singer-songwriter, fiddler, and storyteller whose music captures the raw beauty of his Appalachian roots. Raised on a rustic campground in North Georgia by his maternal grandparents, Wyatt's musical journey began with his championship-winning clogging and Appalachian buck-dancing before evolving into a passion for songwriting and performances adding a fresh voice to the alternative-folk scene.
His artistry has been recognized through numerous accolades, including winning the 2014 LEAF. Festival New Song Singer-Songwriter Competition and placing as a finalist in prestigious events such as the Telluride Bluegrass Festival Troubadour Competition, the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival Songwriter Showcase, and Eddie's Attic Bi-Annual Open Mic Shootouts. Wyatt has also shared the stage with an impressive lineup of artists, including the Indigo Girls, Jim Lauderdale, Patty Loveless, Shawn Mullins, Lorrie Morgan, and Sam Bush, among many others.
Wyatt's first full album, Lies From A Lonesome Valley, featured his band, The Riverstones, and guest appearances by Amy Ray of Indigo Girls and Grace Pettis. The collection of songs reflects Wyatt's deep introspection on identity, belonging, and the search for home, blending haunting melodies, evocative storytelling, and rich instrumentation.
Wyatt initially discovered his love for performing first as a clogger alongside his brother, then as a self-taught fiddler inspired by the traditional sounds of Appalachian music. His journey into songwriting and guitar playing was influenced by a youth minister who composed songs for church gatherings. Over time, Wyatt honed his craft through performances, song schools, festivals, and using music as a form of healing and self-expression. His songs, rich with vivid storytelling and emotional depth, resonate with audiences across the USA, whether performed in a small listening room or on a festival stage.
Beyond music, Wyatt embraces his Appalachian heritage, enjoying camping, hiking, rafting, and kayaking. His connection to nature and his past continues to shape his artistry, making him a standout voice in contemporary folk and Americana music. In addition to being a compelling performer, he weaves together the threads of his past into music that is both deeply personal and universally moving, and now as an instructor for us and others wanting to learn.