Reid Schoenfelder: The Familiar Sound of Alt-Rock

Although many of Schoenfelder’s lyrics are distinctly autobiographical, the compositional aspect of his music feels as familiar as an old friend. His alt-rock roots shine through with every song, striking a chord with listeners who can’t help but hum along.

“I really like writing songs that people feel instantly familiar with,” says Schoenfelder. “I really aim to make songs that people can’t get out of their head.”

This signature style—lush vocal harmonies, relentless guitar hooks, and candid storytelling—cements his place in the world of power pop. His sound echoes influences like Ryan Adams, Pete Yorn, and Matthew Sweet, making his music both timeless and addictive.

In March 2024, Reid signed with Blues Highway Records, marking a pivotal moment in his career. With the release of Shady Acres, his audience expanded worldwide. His numbers speak for themselves—over 13,000 peak monthly listeners on Spotify, thanks to The Orchard/Sony distribution. With such rapid growth, the future looks bright.

From Naval Reserves to Rock Stages

Reid’s music journey began in 1989 when he became the lead singer and guitarist for the Baltimore-based band The Wanting Seed, following six years in the Naval Reserves. Since then, he has continued to evolve as a musician, leaving a lasting impression with his distinct sound.

An amazing guitarist, Reid’s collection includes:
🎸 Gibson Hummingbird Acoustic
🎸 Les Paul Epiphone Standard Electric
🎸 DiPinto Mach 4 Electric

And soon, he hopes to add a Hagstrom Electric to his lineup.

The Lyrics

While his guitar skills are undeniable, it’s Reid’s lyrics that bring his music to life—songs that create an instantly familiar beat, the kind that lingers in your mind long after the last note.

His talent even caught the attention of Turner Broadcasting, which featured his song “What She Wants” in an episode of Firstwave titled “All About Eddie”.

With an ever-growing fan base and a knack for crafting unforgettable melodies, Reid Schoenfelder is a name to watch in the alt-rock scene.