Rod Picott

Born in New Hampshire and raised in South Berkwick, ME, Rod Picott began playing music in a series of high-school and after-school rock and punk groups. Following graduation he moved west to Boulder, CO, where he honed his songwriting through coffeehouse performances and the guidance of Steven Allen Davis. From there he relocated to Nashville in pursuit of opportunities on Music Row. Seven years of club work and steady participation in the city’s competitive songwriter circles led to an opening slot on Allison Krauss & Union Station’s 1998 West Coast tour. He has also collaborated with Slaid Cleaves and Fred Eaglesmith. In 2001 Picott issued his first album, Tiger Tom Dixon’s Blues, titled for his father’s uncle, a boxer during the Depression. The record drew widespread praise for a sound and sensibility reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen, Tom Waits, John Hiatt, and Steve Earle. Additional appearances have included multiple industry showcases, among them the 2002 edition of the South by Southwest Festival (SXSW).