Rory Sullivan

Chicago, IL

Rory Sullivan is an award winning singer/songwriter, who has won the acclaim of legendary producers and artists alike. Having recorded his debut EP with Grammy Winning Artist and Producer, Will Ackerman (from Windham Hill Records) in 2009; the Delaware-bred musician has spent the last few years touring the US, recording a new full length album, and staking out a prominent spot in today’s folk/pop scene. As Ackerman has said, “With brilliant songwriting, the guitar skills of a soloist, and a voice as big as a house, Rory is one of the most impressive young singer/songwriters I've heard in a long time.”

Growing up with small-town roots, between big city living and backcountry roads, it's no wonder Rory developed a unique mix of musical taste. His blending of sounds, ranging from the versatile guitar and songwriting of James Taylor, husky voice of Marc Cohn, and contemporary pop sensibilities of John Mayer, allows Rory to create music worthy of the icons that preceded him. Without limiting himself to one traditional sound or genre, Rory merges folk, pop, rock, soul, and a subtle country flair into a style uniquely his own.

After relocating to New York City in 2011, Rory enlisted the talents of former Epic Records Artist and Producer Justin King to record his first full-length and entirely fan funded record, "The Second Season", at Vinegar Hill Sound. Since the album’s drop in January, Rory has been hitting the pavement hard, playing shows all over the East Coast and Midwest, where he now resides in Chicago, IL. Rory recently won the grand prize for the 2012 CD Baby Songwriting Contest in New York, ranking over 2,000 other songs, and the Sara Evans Hertz Movin' With Music Songwriting Competition, both through Indabamusic. He has received regular radio airplay on stations around the country and has shared an album with Emmylou Harris, Neko Case, John Oates, and Shelby Lynn; where his song "From The Bottom" was handpicked for the "Best Friends, Giving Animals A Voice Through Music" compilation. Rory has been fortunate enough to open up for Eric Andersen, Royal Southern Brotherhood, James Maddock, Luke Brindley, Mutlu, Stephane Wrembel, and many others. 2013 has been a tremendous year of growth and transformation, promising a bright future ahead. With his seamless blend of talent and heart, Rory Sullivan is not to be missed.

  • Work
    • Musician
  • Education
    • Cecil College