Who Is Beth Wood? Beth grew up in Lubbock, TX, where she was classically trained in piano, violin, harp and voice. After spending two years studying voice and piano at Brevard College in North Carolina, Beth moved on to The University of Texas, where she picked up a degree in Literature and her first guitar. While teaching herself guitar, she joined a band and became part of the Austin music scene. After a few years of playing around Austin in her band, and then in a duo, Beth kissed her day-job goodbye and returned to the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina to pursue music full-time. The natural beauty of her surroundings provided inspiration while the supportive community helped Beth to become a standout in the Asheville songwriters’ community. Now an established singer/songwriter, she resides in Arlington, Texas while continuously touring to support her six independent releases.
Discography…
Woodwork (1996), New Blood (1998), Late Night Radio (1999), Wooden Coyote - side project (2000), Ghostwriter (2001), You Take The Wheel (2003), Marigolds (2005).
Beth’s first CD, the self-produced Woodwork, introduces her clear and compelling voice and the promise of an emerging artist. The single “Geometry” from Woodwork was featured on FOX television’s popular series, “Party of Five.” New Blood made a much stronger statement, featuring a darker and more complex sound. New Blood charted top 20 at the national AAA radio charts. Late Night Radio featured full band production and was produced by Don McCollister (Indigo Girls, Sister Hazel). Ghostwriter signaled a return to more elemental production and showcases Beth’s vocal prowess and her continuing exploration and growth as a songwriter. Beth’s fifth release, You Take the Wheel, is a solo acoustic project that highlights Beth’s solid work as a strong, dynamic solo artist. With Marigolds, Beth again embraces a fuller sound, featuring a full band on many songs. Co-produced by Beth and singer-songwriter Chris Rosser, Marigolds features many guest musicians, including Shawn Mullins, Brandon Bush (Train), Heather Morgan, River Guerguerian, Eliot Wadopian, Derek Murphy (Angie Aparo band), Greg Horne (Tim Lee Band), John Felty (Jupiter Coyote), and Matt Mayes (Jupiter Coyote).
AWARDS... Beth has been recognized for her work in national college touring as she was named Campus Activities Magazine 2000 Coffeehouse Entertainer of the Year, 1999 Club Performer of the Year, and 2000, 2001, and 2002 Contemporary Music Artist of the Year Finalist. Recently, Beth was recognized for her songwriting as she was chosen a winner of the Wildflower Festival 2004 Songwriting Contest and a finalist in the 2005 Kerrville New Folk Competition.
ON THE ROAD...
Beth is currently playing a variety of club, college, house concert, and festival dates. While touring throughout the country, Beth has played with artists such as Steve Winwood, John Gorka, Shawn Colvin, David Crosby, Chris Whitley, Jonatha Brooke, Amy Ray, Ellis Paul, Freedy Johnston and many more…
FESTIVALS...Music Midtown (Atlanta, GA)
Bele Chere Festival (Asheville, NC)
SXSW (Austin, TX)
Mandarin Folk Festival (Jacksonville, FL)
North Texas New Music Festival (Dallas, TX)
Kerrville Folk Festival (Kerrville, TX)
Atlanta Dogwood Festival
Tucson Folk Festival
Riverbend Festival (Chattanooga, TN)
Wildflower Festival (Richardson, TX)
Buddy Holly Music Festival and Symposium (Lubbock, TX)
Beth also loves sports, and she loves performing the National Anthem. She has done so at several major sporting events, including Texas Rangers Major League Baseball (2001, 2002, 2003, 2004), Dallas Mavericks NBA Basketball (2004), and several minor league baseball and hockey events.
Beth says… "I feel blessed to have the opportunity to make music for a living! I want to continue making real music for real people, and to continue spreading the word about independent music. For me this journey is not just about the music - it's about the connections we make through music and recognizing the importance of art throughout our lives."