Robert Sarazin Blake

Experience the raw, narrative power of Robert Sarazin Blake at Tupelo. A seasoned traveler and poet of the road, Blake brings a unique “modern twist” to the folk tradition. His performances are legendary for their “speed-strumming” intensity and a storytelling depth that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. Whether he is singing about lost loves, politics, or the quiet beauty of a rainy afternoon, Blake transforms the bustling atmosphere of North Beach into a focused, cinematic listening room.

The Sound: Blake’s music is a captivating blend of Folk, Punk, and Americana. Drawing influence from Woody Guthrie, Leonard Cohen, and Billy Bragg, he utilizes a “recitative” style—a mix of singing and rhythmic talking—that highlights his sophisticated lyricism. His guitar playing is energetic and “ferociously rhythmic,” providing a pulsing backdrop to his sprawling, story-driven songs.

The Master Storyteller: A true showman, Blake is as famous for his between-song banter as he is for the music itself. His sets are peppered with funny, relatable, and often poignant stories that connect his travels to the immediacy of the present moment. It is not uncommon for him to end a set by singing unamplified from the bar, creating a rare moment of pure, acoustic connection.

A North Beach Favorite: Having toured the world for three decades, Blake has found a spiritual home at Tupelo. His residency offers a departure from the venue’s typical high-octane rock, providing a “soul-searching” mid-week or Sunday afternoon sanctuary for those who appreciate the craft of a world-class songwriter.

No Cover: This elite performance is a No Cover event, offering a rare chance to see a veteran of the international folk circuit in an intimate neighborhood setting. It is a quintessential North Beach experience: authentic, unpretentious, and deeply moving.

About Robert Sarazin Blake

Hailing from Bellingham, Washington, Robert Sarazin Blake dropped out of college in 1997 to “hit the road” and has never looked back. With over a dozen albums to his credit—including the critically acclaimed Recitative and Let The Longing Run Wild And Free—he has built a global reputation as one of the finest entertainers of the modern folk movement. As the founder of the Subdued Stringband Jamboree and owner of Same Room Records, Blake remains a fierce advocate for independent music, known for recording “musicians in the same room at the same time” to capture the honest, living soul of the performance.