Dan Arwady’s journey into music began early, fueled by a deep appreciation for tight, purposeful songwriting. Raised on the classic sounds of Motown and The Beatles, Arwady developed an early love for concise and meaningful songs, with no wasted words or seconds. The simplicity of these songs, which could stand on their own with just an acoustic guitar and a voice, left a lasting impact. Songs like “Something,” “Stand By Me,” and “Dock of the Bay” became the standard by which Arwady would measure his work—songs that worked because of their essence, not the production.
The drive to write songs that could evoke the same emotional responses as the songs he grew up with was an early goal for Arwady. As he explored different genres, his parents introduced him to the music of Cat Stevens, James Taylor, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and The Who, while he also gravitated toward rock bands like the Foo Fighters and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. These artists, each with their own distinct style, profoundly influenced his musical development. However, Arwady never lost sight of the idea that the best songs could stand alone—those that conveyed meaning through lyrics, voice, and melody.
Arwady’s passion for music deepened with a focus on drumming. Starting formal training at 12, he spent countless hours in his parents’ basement playing with his favorite records. Whether practicing drums, playing guitar, or experimenting with recording, he constantly honed his craft. As a young musician, he immersed himself in the music of artists like Paul Simon, Steely Dan, and Earth, Wind & Fire, studying their rhythmic approaches and learning the subtle nuances of studio musicianship. Jazz drumming also became a focus, and Arwady played every chance he got. He dreamed of being both a songwriter and a session drummer, and he dedicated himself to mastering the skills necessary to achieve both.
While at the University of Illinois, Arwady auditioned for the university’s prestigious jazz program. Competing against drummers who had spent their lives studying jazz, he secured a spot in the fourth Jazz Band. This experience pushed him to improve his skills, particularly in sight-reading and confidently performing unfamiliar tunes. Arwady played gigs as often as possible alongside his academic pursuits, performing three or four nights a week in local bars. These experiences helped him develop his love for performing live, making a connection with audiences while pursuing his passion for music.
In 2016, Arwady relocated to California, where he continued to write prolifically and began to refine his sound. His first record, Early in the Morning, was created in his home studio and released on platforms like Spotify. Soon after, he began busking on the beaches of Pacifica, CA, building his confidence as a performer. These early performances led to steady gigs in small venues around the Bay Area, where Arwady honed his ability to captivate an audience with his guitar and voice. His songs, often stripped down and heartfelt, began to take on a distinct folk influence, with clear vocal melodies and personal, emotional lyrics at the forefront.
The release of Arwady’s third EP, Keeping Time, marked a key moment in his career. Tracks like “Seems Just Like a Week Ago,” “Sit,” and “California” gained attention for their blend of folk, jazz, and rock influences. The music showcased a dedication to songwriting that prioritized both emotion and simplicity. Even as the sound evolved, Arwady maintained that the strongest songs could be performed with just an acoustic guitar and a voice. His approach to songwriting remained rooted in sincerity and the ability to convey a message directly and effectively.
The artist’s latest single, “Somebody Else,” exemplifies this focus on authenticity. Recorded mostly live in the studio with minimal overdubs, the song captures the energy of a live performance. Arwady was joined by fellow musicians Harry Griffin on second guitar and Cassie Annunziata on vocals. The addition of cellist Chloé Mendola brought a unique, emotional depth to the track. The decision to film a live performance of “Somebody Else” immediately after the recording session further highlights the song’s raw emotion and the connection between the musicians. Fans can view the performance on YouTube, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the music.
Arwady’s upcoming album, Carry With You, is set to be released in March 2025. The record represents a new chapter in his musical journey, showcasing the evolution of his songwriting. The album promises to blend styles, highlighting Arwady’s versatility as a songwriter and performer. The title track will also accompany a music video filmed in the studio during the same recording session as “Somebody Else.” In addition, Arwady plans to release several other singles in the summer of 2025 and is preparing for shows in the San Francisco area, with hopes of touring around northern California to support the new material.
From his early days of practicing drums in a basement to performing in front of crowds across California, Dan Arwady’s path as a musician has been one of growth, experimentation, and dedication. His music, always centered on emotional honesty and simplicity, continues to evolve while staying true to the values that first inspired him. As he looks ahead to releasing his new album, Arwady remains committed to crafting songs that resonate with listeners, offering a direct, heartfelt connection through his voice and instrument.
Published by Drake M.
