Kevin Bronson on October 3rd, 2018

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Singer and songwriter Allen Stone describes himself as “a hippie with soul,” and his music reflects both sides of this formula: His vocals and melodic style show the clear influence of classic soul and R&B of the 1960s and ’70s, while his lyrics reveal an idealism and passion that recall the folk-inspired singer/songwriters of the same era.

Stone was born in 1987 in Chewelah, Wash., a small town not far from Spokane. Stone’s mother was an obstetrician while his father was the pastor of a local church. He grew up on gospel and Christian music, and began leading youth worship groups when he was only 14. He had little exposure to secular music as a child, but in his teens, he developed a taste for classic soul and the music of golden age singer-songwriters. After graduating from high school, 18-year-old Stone attended junior college in Spokane, then transferred to Bible college before dropping out and moving to Seattle. He began writing songs and soon put together a band. Stone and his group became a regular presence on the West Coast club scene, and developed a reputation for powerful live shows as they played up to 200 dates a year.

After a packed set at Arroyo Seco Weekend 2018, he returns to L.A. this fall to play with Nick Waterhouse for two nights, Oct. 17 and 18, at the Fonda in Hollywood.

Get tickets here.