Peter Keane

Peter Keane is an Austin-based guitarist, vocalist and songwriter whose music draws deeply from traditional American folk, country blues, gospel and old-time music. A subtle and accomplished fingerstyle player, he builds performances around the close relationship between voice and guitar, interpreting classic material while adding original songs that feel naturally connected to the same traditions.

Originally from Cincinnati, Keane established himself on the Boston folk and blues circuit before moving to Austin in the mid-1990s. His influences include Mississippi John Hurt, Doc Watson, Skip James, the Carter Family and Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, with Mississippi John Hurt’s melodic fingerpicking style playing an especially important role in his sound.

Keane has released six albums, including The Goodnight Blues, Walkin’ Around, Rural Electrification and 2021’s Blues | Ballads | Cowboy Songs. Career highlights include appearances at the Newport Folk Festival and performing guitar on Bill Morrissey’s Grammy-nominated tribute album Songs of Mississippi John Hurt. He also maintains an extensive YouTube channel featuring performances, guitar lessons, song tutorials and explorations of traditional American music.