Biography
You can hear a pin drop when Philadelphia-based songwriter Aaron Nathans steps up to the mic. People in the know quiet down, lean in, and listen. His songs bob, weave, transfix you with their beauty and groove, and then twist when you least expect it. A former newspaper man with a wide-ranging baritone, he brings a journalist’s eye to tell wider truths about the human condition by shining the light on the smallest details. A leader in the Philadelphia community of songwriters, Aaron is a three-time Kerrville New Folk Finalist, a 2026 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival emerging artist, and a winner of the South Florida Folk Festival songwriting contest.
Aaron is recording his first solo album in 21 years, after a successful Kickstarter campaign. Singer-songwriter Joe Jencks is producing.
Aaron is one half of the guitar-cello duo Aaron Nathans & Michael G. Ronstadt, which is releasing its fifth album, "Esperanza," in summer 2026.
Quotes
"This is the songwriting creativity that I admire... Like many Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and Tom Waits songs, these tunes can linger in your ears and follow you into bed where you will be looking up at the ceiling with your eyes closed in the dark, and the melodies still partying into your sleep."
"This new CD from Aaron Nathans and Michael G. Ronstadt, 'Crooked Fiddle,' deserves your attention. Michael and Aaron have teamed up to create a powerful work of art that I guarantee will move you."
"This is an engaging, warm and intimate collaboration between songwriter Aaron Nathans and songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Michael G. Ronstadt... The songs are often contemplative and thoughtfully constructed... Throughout the songs are stirring and they leave you thinking. A thoroughly satisfying and stimulating effort."
"The selections were varied and interesting, and the execution near flawless. Ronstadt and Nathans exemplify the folk music genre with their originality and clear cut talent..."
"Aaron's songs hit you in both the head and the heart."