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Chris Ingham

Chris Ingham is an independent American songwriter, singer, and guitarist whose roots run deep in the rich soil of rock & roll, blues, folk, soul, or funk — really, any genre that can carry the story he’s compelled to tell. His music is a vibrant tapestry woven from the raw threads of authentic experience and heartfelt expression, each song crafted to speak directly to the soul.

Most recently captivating audiences with his solo acoustic shows throughout Nashville, TN, Chris thrives in the intimate simplicity of solo performance. Yet, his heart beats strongest in the collaborative fire of a band setting. Over the years, he has formed and fronted several dynamic bands, most notably the powerhouse quartet Simply Subtle and the electrifying Chris Ingham & the Instigators, both of which showcase his flair for blending soulful songwriting with irresistible grooves and rock energy.

Driven by an all-consuming passion for music and a profound respect for art as a reflection of the artist’s soul, Chris writes songs that go beyond mere melodies—they are conversations, emotions, and stories wrapped in musical form. This devotion to fostering creative community led him in 2008 to establish a Songwriter Showcase and Open Mic night at the legendary Madam’s Organ Blues Bar in Washington DC. This weekly gathering became a vibrant outlet for up-and-coming independent artists in the DC metro area, nurturing talent and camaraderie in equal measure.

In 2010, Chris packed his bags and headed west to Los Angeles, enrolling at the Musicians Institute to sharpen his craft and soak in the eclectic energy of the West Coast music scene. Returning to DC in 2012, he promptly formed Simply Subtle, a band that would enjoy a lively and evolving run through 2016, with its shifting lineups serving as a testament to Chris’s adaptive and collaborative spirit.

The year 2016 marked a new chapter as Chris relocated to Nashville, TN—a city pulsing with musical tradition and innovation. There, he connected with fellow musicians Jeff Hyman and Steve Hauenstein (a fellow Simply Subtle alum), and together with guitarist Tobin Dale, a longtime friend from his LA days, they crafted a series of compelling recordings. This collaboration produced Chris’s second solo album, Pretty Face (2018), followed by two invigorating rock albums under the banner of Chris Ingham & the Instigators.

The latest gem from this formidable lineup, Postcard, was released in August 2023 and is a testament to Chris’s relentless drive to explore, experiment, and express. Available everywhere, this album continues to amplify his soulful voice and adventurous spirit, cementing his place as a restless musical storyteller with a quirky charm that’s entirely his own.