Sometimes the art and artist prevail through our society's system of normal… Read Full Bio ↴Sometimes the art and artist prevail through our society's system of normalcy. This certainly seems to be the case for 23 year old Marshall Ruffin. The roots and blues singer-songwriter-guitarist grew up in typical Americana, but where science was at the fabric of the family not art. As a youngster Marshall discovered his musical connection while listening to the radio. Then, after finding a guitar in the family attic during his high school years, Marshall began to teach himself to play. Even though the instrument only had three strings, it was enough to set a clear direction for the budding musician.

While attending college in Richmond with an undeclared major, Marshall Ruffin found his focus in the music department. After two years and on a leap of faith, Ruffin applied and was accepted to the Berklee College of Music to finish his undergrad studies. During the Boston stay he recognized and tapped into his songwriting and vocal gifts. After graduating in jazz guitar performance, Ruffin moved back to Virginia to play with a number of different bands of varying musical genres. But it was when a former classmate called and encouraged him to head south that his career in the music business took the fast track. Arriving in Columbus, GA, home of Ma Rainey, The Mother of the Blues, he worked days for Buddy Nelms [A Better Way / The Loft Recording Studios] and played evening opening slots on The Loft Live stage for dozens of regional and national touring acts. There Marshall was heard by and signed with Jammates Records. The Jammates team and A Better Way worked with Ruffin to produce his first retail ready EP, Marshall Ruffin Rich Man's Dime. Ruffin will be playing southeast roots and blues venues before returning to the studio in ‘08 to begin work on his first full featured release.

Website: http://www.marshallruffin.com

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/marshallruffin

OPENINGS: Shawn Mullins, Col. Bruce Hampton, Oliver Wood, Geoff Achison, Paris Luna, Leah Randazzo, Colourslide, Big Atomic, Bobby Lee Rogers / Jeff Sipe.