Bruce Hornsby
USA, 1980–now
American pianist, singer and songwriter, known for 'The Way It Is' (1986) and his fluid, gospel- and jazz-tinged piano pop. A long association with the Grateful Dead and a distinctive '80s pop-piano sound have made him a touchstone for later songwriters.
MusicRoots documents 2 artists who influenced Bruce Hornsby and 1 artist Bruce Hornsby influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.
Who influenced Bruce Hornsby?
- Elton John — Bruce Hornsby took up the piano at 17 after hearing Elton John's Tumbleweed Connection — Elton's melodic pop-piano is a foundation of his style.
- Grateful Dead — Hornsby's improvisational, jam-friendly approach is bound up with the Grateful Dead — he played over 100 shows as a member of their live band in the early 1990s.
Which artists did Bruce Hornsby influence?
- Bon Iver — Justin Vernon is an outspoken Bruce Hornsby devotee — he wrote Bon Iver's 'Beth/Rest' to capture the magic of Hornsby's '80s pop-piano sound, and the two have collaborated since.