Selwyn Birchwood

Selwyn Birchwood is an award-winning Florida bluesman whose unique blend of styles is redefining the modern blues sound. With searing guitar work, soulful vocals, and an unmistakable stage presence, Birchwood carves out a sound he dubs “Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues,” a mix of blues, psychedelic rock, Southern soul, and funk. Critics from Rolling Stone to Guitar World praise his fresh take on the genre, noting both his musical originality and his magnetic, high-energy performances.

His latest album, Exorcist, is Birchwood’s most daring and expansive to date. Featuring 13 original tracks all written and arranged by him, the record covers a wide emotional and musical spectrum, from hard-hitting autobiographical songs to sharp social commentary and eerie storytelling. Produced by Grammy-winner Tom Hambridge, the album is hailed for its fearless creativity and deeply rooted authenticity, earning acclaim for blending tradition with innovation.

On stage, Birchwood is a powerhouse. Standing 6’3” and performing barefoot, he delivers electrifying live sets that highlight his fierce guitar skills and gravelly, passionate vocals. Backed by his seasoned band, including standout baritone saxophonist Regi Oliver, he commands the stage with charisma and a revival-like intensity. Whether playing electric or lap steel guitar, Birchwood’s shows are a cathartic, high-energy experience that keeps fans coming back for more.

Born in Orlando in 1985, Birchwood began playing guitar as a teenager and quickly became immersed in blues after discovering Jimi Hendrix and seeing Buddy Guy live. That inspiration led him to dive deep into the genre’s legends and later study under blues veteran Sonny Rhodes. Rhodes mentored him on both the musical and business side of the industry, while Birchwood earned an MBA from the University of Tampa and formed his own band in 2010, blending his academic and artistic talents to build a thriving career.

Since winning the 2013 International Blues Challenge, Birchwood has toured internationally, released critically acclaimed albums, and gained steady support from radio and music media. His breakout Alligator Records debut Don’t Call No Ambulance won major awards, followed by standout releases like Pick Your Poison and Living In A Burning House. With Exorcist, Selwyn Birchwood proves once again that he’s not just carrying on the blues tradition - he’s reshaping it, one soulful, electrifying performance at a time.