Nick Krzywonos (Kriz-WA-nus) got his start in music through countless open mics in the Lansing area. He refined his original tunes on the stage until he eventually had a strong enough set to begin playing more structured events. It was at a Lansing venue named Zepplin’s where he met musician and future producer of his first record, David Moatt. Nick’s first album, Suspended, was recorded at Front Street Tracking in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
It’s hard to find a song on his album that doesn't speak to his story because Nick’s songs stem directly from his life. His music charts geographical and emotional relocation, while his message is firmly rooted in place and subtle revelation. He is at times hopeful, mournful, realistic, even whimsical, but always brimming with emotion. Nick tells us stories with universal themes about relationships, pain, love, starting over.
Nick’s music defies easy classification and traditional labels fail to capture his sound, even as he borrows from many genres. First, his is a folk music, in that it is for the people. But it’s soulful, without twang; it’s bluesy, but smooth and uplifting; it’s driving but not hard. His music begs listeners to understand and connect.
Living in the heart of downtown Lansing where he’s a staple of the music scene, this singer-songwriter is at the horizon of his first release. His only regret is not recording with his new banjo.