Carolyn Shulman and Shauna Sweeney

Some people know from an early age what they want to do with their lives. Others take the scenic route. Denver-based songwriter Carolyn Shulman’s story is a little bit of both. She knew from the time her father gave her a guitar and taught her some chords at nine years old that she wanted to play music for the rest of her life. However, it wasn’t until after she had gotten through seven years of working as a lawyer in Houston, Texas, performing in local venues when she could, that she finally decided to focus her full attention on her lifelong passion of writing and performing original music.

Most heavily influenced by the women who helped define contemporary folk & Americana music before her, Carolyn’s sound is a nod to artists like Shawn Colvin, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Lucy Kaplansky, Susan Gibson, and Patty Griffin. In the vein of these musical role models, Carolyn builds powerful emotional landscapes by layering poignant, vulnerable lyrics atop skillful guitar work that varies from driving rhythms to intricate fingerpicking.

In 2021, Carolyn released her debut album, . Produced by John McVey at Cinder Sound Studio in Longmont, Colorado, this album features a full band of seasoned musicians. It was released to positive reviews and enjoyed three months on the Folk Radio Charts, climbing to number 22 and placing Carolyn among June 2021’s top 40 most-spun artists on folk radio. Following her successful album release, Carolyn was selected from a pool of 300 contestants as one of ten finalists to perform in Planet Bluegrass’s 2022 Rocky Mountain Folks Festival Songwriter Showcase.

Carolyn is now preparing to release a new, full-length album, Heart on a Wire. This collection of ten songs reveals a more seasoned and experienced artist who has deepened her creative focus. Heart on a Wire finds the songwriter delving into character-driven narratives, social issues, and her emotional world. Working with producer John McVey once again, the sound of this album ranges from traditional, acoustic folk with hints of bluegrass to a more folk-rock and Americana vibe. Across the board, the production is rich and warm, enhanced by a full band. Heart on a Wire is slated for release in September 2024.

Shauna Sweeney grew up listening to folk songs around campfires and 90’s pop on the radio. With those influences, and the support of family and great teachers, it was no surprise when she began writing and performing songs at a young age. In the years since, her songs have taken her many places: she has performed at hundreds of venues and festivals in the US and internationally, been featured by USAToday and NPR, performed alongside Dave Matthews Band, Train, Gin Blossoms and 10,000 Maniacs, sung the national anthem for several major league games, and released 4 original EPs and albums. Her self-produced 2020 album Happy Thank You Yes More Please was called “Soulful and organic” by Indie HQ, and the Music Lover Podcast praised its “captivating and magical performances.” 

The best part of it all, Sweeney says, is getting to use her voice to connect with people and share moments of joy. After growing up in New England and launching her career in South Florida, she now resides in Colorado. She spends her time writing songs, hiking in the Rockies, and working with local businesses and nonprofits to connect and engage with fellow humans through the power of music, creativity and self-expression.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Swallow Hill Music - Tuft Theatre, 71 East Yale Ave, Denver, United States