Julian Taylor Biography

Introducing Julian Taylor

Canadian Julian Taylor is a seasoned singer-songwriter with roots in Mohawk and Caribbean ancestry. He is celebrated for his ability to captivate audiences with his eclectic blend of soulful Americana music.

Roots and Evolution

After dedicating 25 years to music, Julian Taylor has cemented his status as an independent artist, transitioning from the rock scene of Staggered Crossing to the eclectic blend of the Julian Taylor Band and focusing on his solo career. Julian now retains full ownership of his musical legacy.

In an era where rapid success is often the norm, Julian’s journey has been marked by steady growth and a timeless artistic vision. His commitment to a do-it-yourself ethos, which includes writing, producing, and promoting his music, has seen him through highs and lows, culminating in the recent acclaim for his solo work.

“The Ridge” and Beyond

Hailing from Toronto, Julian Taylor has been a fixture in Canada’s music scene for over two decades. His second solo acoustic album, “The Ridge,” made waves in 2020, garnering millions of plays on Spotify and earning praise globally. The album, produced by Taylor and Saam Hashemi at The Woodshed in Toronto, blends soulful Americana and country influences.

The accolades for “The Ridge” were numerous, including winning Taylor the Solo Artist of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards and nominations for two Juno Awards and the Polaris Prize Long List, among others. In 2022, Taylor’s success continued with wins at the International Acoustic Music Awards and multiple nominations at the Native American Music Awards.

Embracing Heritage: Julian Taylor’s Mohawk and Caribbean Influences

With roots in Mohawk and Caribbean heritage, Julian Taylor’s musical versatility is evident. Whether commanding the stage with his band or delivering intimate solo performances, Taylor’s songwriting prowess shines through. He has released twelve studio albums since 2001, and his music has been featured in popular TV shows.

Electrifying Performances: From Intimate Shows to Festival Stages

Taylor’s live performances are electrifying, having toured extensively in Canada and the U.S. and shared stages with notable artists. Appearances include performances at the Festival d’Été de Quebec, Mariposa Folk Festival, and Ottawa BluesFest and invitations to perform at the Olympic Games.

Beyond the Reservoir: Julian Taylor’s Latest Creative Endeavor

With his latest album, ‘ Beyond the Reservoir,’ Julian Taylor continues to push creative boundaries. The album delves into themes of identity, loss, and redemption, weaving a narrative of resilience and strength. Each song is a testament to Taylor’s evolving artistry and storytelling prowess, exploring these themes in a deeply personal and reflective way.

Taylor’s brilliant new album Beyond The Reservoir is a coming-of-age story that opens old wounds but also heals them with the clarity and wisdom he’s gained in the years since his teen experiences. Throughout the record, there’s a gentleness to Taylor’s vocals and instrumentation that makes the lyrics and meaning behind the songs all the more incisive and profound. Musically, it floats like a butterfly, but each song contains decades- sometimes generations’ worth of pain and insight. Carol Roth for Adventures in Americana: The full review is here.