London-born singer-songwriter Teddy Thompson is set to headline this year’s Sag Harbor American Music Festival, bringing his lifelong passion for American music to the forefront. Despite being the son of two iconic English folk-rock musicians, Thompson’s musical influences have always leaned toward classic American country and rock ‘n’ roll.
“I was enamored by American ’50s and ’60s country and rock ’n’ roll at a young age,” Thompson shared. “Buddy Holly, the Everly Brothers, and classic American rock ’n’ roll sounded so much cooler than the English stuff.”
Thompson moved to California at 18 and spent five years in Los Angeles before relocating to New York City, where he now resides. As the headliner for this year’s Sag Harbor American Music Festival, Thompson joins a roster of diverse performers from various genres. According to festival founder Kelly Dodds, Thompson’s performance is a perfect fit to expand the festival’s representation of American musical styles.
“We always aim to bring artists who tell the story of American music in fresh ways,” said Dodds. “We’ve had performers from New Orleans and gospel artists, but country and folk stories have been missing from our headliners. Teddy is an ideal addition with his vast experience and unique take on American country music.”
Thompson’s connection to American country music runs deep, highlighted by his 2020 album My Love of Country, a collection of cover songs from the genre. Created during the pandemic, the album served as a healing project for Thompson during a challenging time.
“I wasn’t writing original songs then,” he explained. “I was just like everyone else—lying around, feeling down. So I turned to these classic country songs for joy, even though many of them are incredibly sad.”
Now, Thompson is back to writing original material, blending his country roots with pop and folk influences. His new work continues to reflect on the timeless themes of love and heartache that have always driven his music.
