Jesse Waldman

Artist Website

Jesse Waldman is a cornerstone of the East Vancouver music scene, known for his bluesy, roots-driven sound that captures the heart of the city and its diverse culture. His songs, deeply personal and evocative, weave stories of Vancouver’s streets, people, and creative pulse, offering a mix of introspection, curiosity, and universal themes. As an accomplished lead guitarist, Jesse’s refined technique and effortless improvisation make his performances both dynamic and immersive, spanning a wide range of styles rooted in folk, Americana, and traditional blues.

With a career that began after discovering a forgotten guitar in an attic in Thornhill, Ontario, Jesse has toured extensively across Canada, the Western U.S., and the U.K., performing at major festivals like Burnaby Blues & Roots, Mission Folk, and TD International Jazz. His debut album, Mansion Full of Ghosts, was praised for its intricate fingerpicking and lush arrangements, exploring the duality of a city’s beauty and darkness. Now, with his sophomore album, The Shimmering Divide (set for release September 20, 2024), Jesse collaborates with long-time musical partner Marc L’Esperance to present an intimate, acoustic-based collection of alt-folk reflections. The album delves into life’s defining choices, embodying both wisdom and the gentle, train-like rhythm of Jesse’s ever-evolving journey.