Reacting to GREGORY ALAN ISAKOV - "She Always Takes It Black"

Gregory Alan Isakov is a South African-born American singer-songwriter and farmer, renowned for his evocative blend of indie and folk music. Born on October 19, 1979, in Johannesburg, South Africa, he immigrated to the United States with his family in 1986, settling in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His grandfather was a Lithuanian Jew who fled to South Africa during World War II.

Isakov began his musical journey early, touring with a band at the age of 16. In 1999, he moved to Colorado to study horticulture at Naropa University. Balancing his passion for music and farming, he played occasional gigs while working as a gardener. His musical career gained momentum when he started touring with Kelly Joe Phelps.

Over the years, Isakov has released several acclaimed albums:

Rust Colored Stones (2003): His debut album, self-released, marked the beginning of his recording career.

Songs for October (2005): Another self-released album that continued to build his presence in the folk music scene.

That Sea, the Gambler (2007): This album further showcased his songwriting prowess and was also self-released.

This Empty Northern Hemisphere (2009): Featuring vocals by Brandi Carlile on five tracks and a cover of Leonard Cohen's "One of Us Cannot Be Wrong," this album received critical acclaim.

The Weatherman (2013): Released under his independent label, Suitcase Town Music, this album solidified his reputation in the indie folk genre.

Gregory Alan Isakov with the Colorado Symphony (2016): An orchestral reimagining of eleven of his earlier songs, recorded with the full Colorado Symphony.

Evening Machines (2018): This album earned a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album in 2019.

Appaloosa Bones (2023): His most recent release, continuing his tradition of introspective songwriting.

Isakov's music often explores themes of nature, introspection, and personal experiences. He has been influenced by artists such as Leonard Cohen, Gillian Welch, Kelly Joe Phelps, Iron & Wine, and Bruce Springsteen. His songs like "Big Black Car," "The Stable Song," "If I Go, I'm Goin'," and "San Luis" are particularly well-known.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Isakov manages Starling Farm, a small six-acre farm in Boulder County, Colorado, focused on small-scale, bio-intensive market gardening. The farm provides produce to CSA members, local restaurants, and Community Food Share, a local food bank.

Isakov has performed internationally, sharing stages with artists like Rodrigo y Gabriela, Alexi Murdoch, and Fiona Apple. He has also played at numerous music festivals across the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Sources:

Gregory Alan Isakov - Wikipedia

Gregory Alan Isakov - Official Biography

Gregory Alan Isakov - Secret Road

Gregory Alan Isakov - The Vogue

Meet The First-Time Nominee: Gregory Alan Isakov On 'Evening Machines,' Songwriting, Farming & More

Gregory Alan Isakov - AllMusic

Interview: Gregory Alan Isakov - Americana Highways