Scott King is a seasoned singer, guitarist, songwriter, recording artist, and performer whose music career spans decades, rooted in both the intimacy of live acoustic music and the power of full-band performance. Raised in Sudbury, Massachusetts and now based in Wayne, Maine, Scott’s musical journey reflects a deep connection to his New England roots, and a lifelong commitment to the craft of songwriting. His songs draw equally from his rock and folk beginnings, blending the raw energy of one with the tender storytelling of the other. His lyrics are imaginative and engaging, often playful, revealing a keen sense of irony and a passionate core. On stage, he is a dynamic performer, pairing compelling guitar chops with a strong, confident singing voice that brings both his own songs and a wide range of covers vividly to life.
Scott first gained attention as a solo singer/songwriter in and around Boston during the explosion of folk music there in the 1990s, playing popular venues such as Colonial Inn, Johnny D's, Linden Tree Coffeehouse, Cantab Lounge, and Old Vienna Kaffeehaus. He spent a year performing over 160 shows in Denmark and appearing on Danish TV and radio before returning to become the frontman and principal songwriter for the alternative rock band Xguru, a staple of Boston’s thriving 1990s music scene. The band headlined many of the city’s most iconic venues, including The Middle East, Mama Kin, Bill's Bar, T.T. the Bear’s, The Kendall Café, and the legendary Rathskeller (“The Rat”). In 1999, Xguru released Wonder Of It All, produced by Tim O’Heir (Dinosaur Jr., Juliana Hatfield, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, All American Rejects), recorded at the famed Fort Apache, and celebrated at a sold out show at Bill’s Bar.
Scott has built a diverse and respected performance resume throughout his career, sharing the stage with an impressive roster of acclaimed artists, including Jonathan Edwards, Pierce Pettis, Bill Morrissey, Ellis Paul, Scott Alarik, Brooks Williams, The Nields, Bob Carlisle, Per-Erik Hallen, Expanding Man, Angry Salad, The Watchmen, Evan and Jaron, and Three Dog Night.
Scott's music has been played on radio stations such as WBCN, WAAF, WBLM, WKPE, Maine Public Radio, and numerous college stations nationwide. His song “Stranger As You Go” was licensed to Lorimar Pictures, and “Meteor”, his co-write with Xguru bandmate Chris Rings, was released on Student Compilation Vol. 3 with tracks by G. Love and Special Sauce, The Watchmen, The Sheila Divine, Angry Salad, and other groups. Scott has earned a Semi-Finalist spot in the Boston Acoustic Underground, and Honorable Mention from American Songwriter Magazine for the lyrics to his song, “Stones for Saint Stephen.”
Scott has performed in many cover bands throughout his career, including The Beatleitos, a collective of Maine musicians dedicated to performing the music of The Beatles as well as songs from the solo careers of John, Paul, George, and Ringo. Past members have included guitarist/singer Ian Parker, bassist/vocalist Erik Glocker, keyboardist/singer Bob Colwell, drummer/singer Mark Matzell, and Scott's son, guitarist/singer Jeff King. A second iteration of the band is due to launch soon. Stay tuned!
You can catch Scott live in solo shows, with his duo, 93 North, featuring singer extraordinaire, Amy Hubbard, and with a variety of other combos made up of talented musicians from Maine and New Hampshire. Hope to see you out on the road somewhere!