John Moreland, whose real name is John Robert Moreland was born on June 22, 1985, in Longview, Texas, is a prolific American singer-songwriter renowned for his deeply introspective and heart-wrenching music. His early life was marked by frequent relocations due to his father, Robert Lloyd Moreland’s, career as an electrical engineer with Sunoco. Growing up in a conservative Southern Baptist family, Moreland’s early years were spent in Northern Kentucky, where he developed a lifelong love for the Cincinnati Reds. At the age of ten, Moreland’s family moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, a pivotal transition that significantly shaped his musical journey.
Encouraged by his father, Moreland began playing the guitar and soon after, inspired by a church friend who wrote songs, he started composing his own music. His musical roots were initially embedded in punk and hardcore scenes during his high school years, notably as a member of the local metalcore band Thirty Called Arson. However, a transformative moment occurred when he discovered Steve Earle’s song “Rich Man’s War,” steering him towards folk music. Influences such as Guy Clark and Townes Van Zandt further enriched his musical palette.
In 2005, Moreland formed the Black Gold Band and released Endless Oklahoma Sky in 2008. This was followed by Things I Can’t Control in 2009, recorded with producer Stephen Egerton. Moreland’s early work was marked by a DIY ethos, largely self-performed and self-produced, which continued to define his approach throughout his career. His music, described as “gloriously and joyfully heartbreaking,” draws heavily from his Oklahoma roots, and his prolific songwriting often sees him releasing multiple records within a short span.
2015 marked a significant year for Moreland with the release of High on Tulsa Heat, his third full-length solo record. The album, produced by Moreland and featuring a host of local musicians, was recorded in his parents’ home in Bixby, Oklahoma. The informal, quick recording process imbued the album with a raw, authentic feel. This period also saw him opening for renowned artists such as Jason Isbell, Dawes, and Patty Griffin, further solidifying his place in the Americana music scene.
Moreland’s seventh album, Big Bad Luv, released in 2017 under 4AD, was a notable departure as it was the first to feature a full band. Contributions from members of Dawes and Shovels & Rope added a new dimension to his sound. His subsequent album, LP5, released in 2020, marked his return to the label Thirty Tigers and was produced by Matt Pence.
In 2022, Moreland surprised fans with Birds In The Ceiling, an album that blended folk and electronica to explore themes of modern alienation. Following a challenging tour, he took a year off from performing and disconnected from his smartphone for six months, a period of rest and reflection that led to his 2024 album, Visitor. Recorded at his home in Bixby, Oklahoma, the album is characterized by its simplicity and immediacy, echoing his earlier works.
Moreland’s ability to blend deeply personal narratives with broader social commentary has earned him praise from outlets like The New York Times, Fresh Air, and Pitchfork. His dedication to his craft and artistic independence is evident in his decision to self-manage aspects of his career, such as running his mail-order business. Praised by figures like Rachel Maddow, Moreland’s work resonates with a wide audience, securing his place in the upper echelons of modern Americana singer-songwriters.
