Colin Clyne – Scottish songwriter in California

Colin Clyne is an award winning singer-songwriter from Stonehaven, Scotland who is now based in California. His music is a mixture of Scottish folk music and Americana roots. He plays the guitar and harmonica and his performances are straight from the heart.

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He still spends a lot of time performing in Scotland and has developed a strong following in his home country and in California.

Influenced by The Fureys and Bob Dylan

Colin Clyne
Colin Clyne

Clyne became hooked on music when he was a child and he would listen to his mother’s records of the Corries and the Fureys. He also lists Bob Dylan, Neil Young and Oasis among the artists who have influenced and inspired him.

He spent many hours playing as a youngster but disaster struck when he was 16. He severely injured his hand in an accident and was no longer able to play guitar. However, this setback strengthened his resolve and made him all the more determined to become a performer.

Learning to play guitar again

He persevered with his music and by the time he reached his mid twenties, he was able to play guitar again. Having being spurred on by this success, he toured and performed constantly. He was equally comfortable playing as part of a band or as a solo artist.

He has performed at notable venues and events such as the Viper Rooms in Hollywood and the Tartan Heart Festival in Scotland. He has also made several appearances on radio and television in Scotland and the US.

In 2007, Clyne recorded Songs from the Cold Store. They were his first recordings and were released by Starving Dog Records.

Debut album – Doricana

His debut album, Doricana, was released in 2010 on Starving Dog Records. The title Doricana stems from his fusion of Americana and Doric, which is a regional language in his native North East Scotland.

It was recorded by Grammy award winner, Alan Sanderson, who has produced albums with artists such as the Rolling Stones and Burt Bacharach.

The sound is the mixture of Scottish and American music that Clyne has become known for, and the album features guest appearances from a host of talented musicians.

Dennis Caplinger, who was worked with Johnny Cash and Eric Clapton, Flogging Molly’s Matt Hensley, Skelpin’s Tim Foley and Enrique Platas, Larry Grano and Rick Nash of the Eve Selis Band and even opera singer Victoria Robertson make an appearance.

Best Acoustic Act

In 2011, Clyne was named as ‘Best Acoustic Act’ at the San Diego music awards. He was following in the footsteps of artists such as Jewel and Jason Mraz.

He continues to tour and work on new material. You can see him at Festivals, theatres, clubs and pubs across the UK and US.

Colin Clyne
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