Whether it's a backyard wedding, corporate event, or birthday celebration — I bring a mix of original Americana and crowd-favorite covers that keeps the energy just right all night long.
Drawing from a deep well of artists like Bruce Springsteen, Chris Stapleton, Tyler Childers, and Journey, I perform everything from memory — because music should feel lived-in, not read off a page.
🎸 Original Americana songwriting
🎤 Wide cover repertoire spanning country, rock & folk
✅ Fully memorized setlists — no music stands, no distractions
🎵 Happy to learn a special song for your event
Booking is easy and I'm responsive. Let's make your event one people talk about.
9 reviews
Amy P.
February 3, 2025John performed at out "surprise" micro-wedding and he nailed the vibe of our dinner/cocktails. We couldn't be more pleased with his professionalism and creativity. He even learned a song we requested prior to the event and nailed it. If we could give more stars, we would. We are so happy we chose him for this event.
Hired as: Singing Guitarist
Joe D.
October 7, 2024John was great. I would hire him again in the future.
Hired as: Singing Guitarist
Brady B.
September 6, 2024Most importantly, Mr. Swardson is a highly talented musician that my guests enjoyed and praised. Secondly, he is a professional and was able to communicate, plan and execute. Finally, he was able to flex to my needs and be adaptable. Mr. Swardon added an extra element to my United States Space Force Promotion Ceremony and Party and helped make it a truly memorable experience for me and those involved. Thank you!
Hired as: Acoustic Band, Singing Guitarist
Jill H.
August 28, 2024John was a great addition to our party. He arrived early to get set up, was super personable, and the guests loved the music. Would highly recommend John!
Hired as: Singing Guitarist
Kathy E.
July 23, 2024John is a great musician and singer. He was perfect for out event. It was supposed to be outside, but thunderstorms forced us to move inside. And because of the storms, we didn't have as many people as normal for this type of event. But John was gracious and accommodating, played the entire set, despite the small numbers towards the end. He chatted with folks after. A great guy, very professional and personable. Highly recommend!
Hired as: Singing Guitarist
Price range: Typically $100/hr but flexible depending
Gig length: 60 - 240 minutes
I am a songwriter at heart but also play a wide variety of cover songs that fit my style. Some of the artists I cover:
Springsteen. The Stones, Waylon, Willie and Merle, Chris Stapleton, Tyler Childers, John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, The Dead, Tom Waits, Pearl Jam, etc, etc
My name is John Swardson. I’m a guitar player, a singer, and a songwriter. I’ve been playing the clubs and music rooms in the Twin Cities and around the country for years. I have a couple solo records out (Ablaze, Silver Dust) with a couple more on the way in the next calendar year. I also have a band called John Swardson and Bad Blood. Our ‘20 release, Blood Moon, is available everywhere you stream your music. I write and play soulful, heartfelt songs and will give my best every time I have the honor of gracing a stage, living room or bonfire. Thank you for the interest. JS
I travel with my own sound system when necessary.
Sunday
Graduation
4:00pm - 7:00pm
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Wayzata, MN
Friday
Dinner Party
6:00pm - 8:30pm
•
Stillwater, MN
Saturday
Birthday Party
7:00pm - 10:00pm
•
St Paul, MN
Friday
Personal Occasion
5:30pm - 9:30pm
•
Prescott, WI
Friday
Concert
3:00pm - 4:00pm
•
St Paul, MN
Saturday
Birthday Party
6:30pm - 8:30pm
•
St Paul, MN
Thursday
Corporate Event
6:30pm - 9:00pm
•
Stillwater, MN
Sunday
Nonprofit Event
11:00am - 12:00pm
•
Minneapolis, MN
Friday
Dinner Party
6:00pm - 9:00pm
•
Minneapolis, MN
Thursday
Fair
5:00pm - 8:00pm
•
Minneapolis, MN
Saturday
Birthday Party
6:00pm - 9:00pm
•
Eden Prairie, MN
Saturday
House Party
7:00pm - 11:00pm
•
Hudson, WI
Saturday
House Party
5:00pm - 8:00pm
•
Lake Elmo, MN
Saturday
Cocktail Party
6:00pm - 9:00pm
•
Minneapolis, MN
My own songs from my released and unreleased/upcoming records
Springsteen
Townes Van Zandt
Outlaw Country
Rolling Stones
Neil Young
Dylan
Tom Petty
Etc…
Brice Springsteen, Townes Van Zandt, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Lucinda Williams, Tom Waits, The Stones, Eddie Vedder, U2
Singing Guitarist
