Aaron Stephens

Born in Illinois, raised on the border in McAllen, and now residing in Bryan, soul singer-songwriter Aaron Stephens is a triple threat. Blessed with a warm, rich voice that hearkens to soul legends such as Bill Withers and Al Green, paired with bluesy, rootsy, Derek Trucks-inspired slide guitar, Stephens' sound is brought together through his own imaginative arrangements and methodical songwriting that can be both introspective and broad-reaching, drawing inspiration from soul, blues, roots, pop, and funk. The Austin Chronicle writes "Stephens executes all these styles well, gliding through genres and emotions." Over the last decade-plus, Stephens has entrenched himself as an exciting talent in not only Texas' musical landscape, but also successful tours across the US. Career highlights include an appearance at the 2021 Austin City Limits Music Festival, a nomination for Best R-and-B/Soul at the 2021 Austin Music Awards, and regular performances at venues such as Gruene Hall and Antone's. Aaron performs with a variety of formats, ranging from solo to varying full-band formats, up to a six-piece with bass, drums, keys, and horns. Aaron also can offer single-day or multi-week educational lectures and hands-on workshops demonstrating elements, sounds and techniques of the lap steel guitar across genres. Photo by Sarah Stephens.