Meet Troy Graham of Marquette

Today we’d like to introduce you to Troy Graham. 

Hi Troy, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
When I was four years old, I went to my dad’s church choir practice and sang with the adults. This is when we realized that I could hold a note and I’ve been singing ever since. Later in life, I picked up the electric bass and guitar and found that writing songs was really the only way to get my true feelings and ideas out of my head. I write songs all the time and it is very therapeutic for me. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The challenge is always a lot of competition. You have to be fresh, always producing new music, touring, and playing lots of shows. You have to be willing to go and do music in new ways, always getting your music in front of new people. Play, play, play, and just do your best. There have been in the past lots of sleeping in parking lots or on people’s couches or floors. There are a lot of things you sacrifice or side jobs you work around music. You do what you have to do, so you can do what you want to do. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m most known for my songwriting and as being a storyteller in song. Sometimes there is a political view behind it; other times personal or completely unrelated; I just pick a topic to write a song about. My sense of melody with guitar and harmonica sets me apart as a solo act. I try to stay strong and true to the roots, influenced by Bob Dylan, Woody Guthrie, and Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. some of the old grandfathers of folk music, and play music because I feel deeply moved. There is no way I could live my life without expressing myself through melody and song. 

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
The message I try to convey with the songwriting is important to me. The sense of melody though harmonica and guitar with lyrics that I hope people can relate to. In general, folk songs are written for the working people and it is a great joy to be on the road and see your songs appreciated by others. The music matters to me and there is nothing more important than music that has meaning behind it. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://troygrahammusic.square.site/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/troygrahammusic
• Youtube: @troygrahammusic

Image Credits
Lisa Graham
David Walters
Shawn Wolfman