Rye-based singer-songwriter Paul Jensen is bringing a touch of Nashville to Rye with the launch of the Sound Shore Songwriter Series, a new live showcase dedicated to original music and the art of storytelling through song.
The first event takes place Tuesday, Oct. 15, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Rye Arts Center, featuring four singer-songwriters: Drew Angus, Charlotte Morris, Paul Guzzone, and Jensen himself. Modeled after Nashville’s famous Bluebird Café, the evening will follow a “writers’ round” format — an intimate, conversational performance in which each artist takes a turn performing their own songs and sharing the inspiration behind them.
“This is about people who really enjoy hearing great music and the stories that inspired the songs,” Jensen explains. “We didn’t have a place in southern Westchester for songwriters to perform their own music, so I decided to start one.”
The idea for the Sound Shore Songwriter Series took root after Jensen spent time at songwriter festivals in places like Key West and Annapolis, where this “in-the-round” style is a tradition. “I’ve met so many talented songwriters through those festivals, and I realized we didn’t have anything like that here,” he says. “Most of the local shows are cover bands. People love that, and I play those gigs too, but this is different — it’s about original songs and the stories behind them.”
Jensen’s own story is part of what makes the project so personal. A longtime communications executive, he spent decades in corporate public relations before returning to music.
“During COVID, I thought hard about what I wanted to do with the next chapter of my life,” he said. “I told myself years ago that if I ever came back to music, it would be for love, not money.”
He now splits his time between consulting and songwriting, performing at venues around Westchester and New York City (City Winery, Nov. 23) and working on his third album. Inspired by artists like Jason Isbell and Drew Holcomb, his style falls under the broad umbrella of Americana: “a little bit country, a little bit folk, but always focused on the story.”
The lineup for the first Sound Shore showcase reflects that range and depth of songwriting. Westport-based Drew Angus first gained national attention on “American Idol” and has since built a loyal East Coast following. Philadelphia’s Charlotte Morris has been compared to Joni Mitchell and Sarah McLachlan. And Paul Guzzone, the bassist and vocalist for The Bacon Brothers Band (featuring actor Kevin Bacon), is an award-winning songwriter, producer, and professor at the Sands College of Performing Arts at Pace University.
Seated on stools, each artist will take turns sharing not only their music but the stories, memories, and inspirations behind it. “I hope people come and listen to music a little more closely,” said Jensen. “This format lets audiences appreciate the craft of songwriting and the people who actually wrote the songs.”
The Rye Arts Center venue seats about 75 people, creating an intimate environment where audiences can connect with the artists. “It’s small enough that you feel part of it,” he said. “You’re right there with the songwriters, hearing songs you won’t hear anywhere else.” Guests will also be treated to a welcoming touch: “Come have a glass of wine (BYOB), listen to great music, and hear some great stories,” Jensen added.
While Jensen envisions the series as an ongoing fixture in Westchester’s arts scene, with new lineups and venues a few times each year, this week he’s focused on the debut. “I think it’s going to be a special night,” he said. “It’s about creating a space where songwriters can connect — and where audiences can really listen.”
