Paul Thorn

About

Paul Thorn is a storyteller who wields his guitar like a paintbrush, crafting vivid, soul-stirring narratives that blur the lines between gospel, blues, and Southern rock. Born in Tupelo, Mississippi—the same town that birthed Elvis Presley—Thorn’s music is steeped in the raw authenticity of the American South. His songs are equal parts humor and heartache, delivered with a gravelly voice that feels like a warm handshake from an old friend. Drawing from influences as diverse as gospel choirs, Delta blues, and outlaw country, Thorn’s sound is a gritty, soulful tapestry that defies easy categorization. Thorn’s career began in the unlikeliest of places: as a professional boxer who once fought Roberto Durán. But it was his pivot to music that cemented his legacy. His breakthrough album, *Ain’t Love Strange* (1997), introduced the world to his unique blend of wit and wisdom. Over the years, Thorn has built a devoted following with albums like *Pimps & Preachers* (2010), which draws from his unconventional upbringing as the son of a Pentecostal preacher and nephew of a pimp. His live performances are legendary, blending storytelling with a raw, emotional intensity that leaves audiences spellbound. Thorn’s cultural impact lies in his ability to find beauty in life’s contradictions. Collaborations with artists like Bonnie Raitt and Sting have further solidified his reputation as a musician’s musician. Recently, he’s been touring extensively and working on new material, proving that his creative fire burns as brightly as ever.