Jesse DeNatale is a singer-songwriter in Northern California. He was born in San Francisco. He has released four critically acclaimed albums: Shangri-La West (2000) Soul Parade (2006) The Wilderness (2021) and 2023’s The Hands Time on Blue Arrow Records.
His music has been described as evocative and hopeful, a combination of poetry and storytelling. Over the years his love of various musical genres has inspired him to expand his ideas of songwriting as he continues to find a way to reflect back the realities of being alive. Rich with imagery, intelligence and passion, his music remains timeless. It’s soulful accessibility is what has garnered him praise from other artists and has kept his devoted fans listening.
“Now it seems that all the best ones have been driven underground. If there’s a leak in the boiler room it’s the music of Jesse DeNatale, a unique and original American voice.”- Tom Waits
“A dynamic tune fountain…and one of the most distinctive singers and creative lyricists of his generation and the generations that flank him.”
– Billy Collins, US Poet Laureate 2001- 2003
“I have seen Jesse DeNatale play many times and he creates his own atmosphere as a performer. One of my favorite things about him is his piano playing. We once did a tour together during which his beautiful singing voice & his stories attracted followers wherever we went.”
– Jonathan Richman
“He’s the bard of Tomales Bay” – Ramblin’ Jack Elliott
“He’s good, really good.” – Nick Hornby
“Jesse DeNatale’s songs are not only well worth hearing, they’re well worth hearing again and again.”
– Ben Fong-Torres, Former Rolling Stone Magazine Senior Editor and American Rock Journalist
“Shangri-La West by Jesse DeNatale was a great first album. A rough and tender voice, intricate lyrics, and wise new songs. Soul Parade continues with more steps that are half dance and half street confessional. All from the heart.” – Michael Ondaatje, Writer, Poet, The English Patient
“I love the way you take your influences and make them your own.” – Denis Johnson, Jesus’ Son
