He was completing a Master of Arts degree in San Francisco in creative writing and African drum and folklore when he began looking to cultures that maintain oral histories for connections between rhythm, music, and the spoken word. Upon learning of the melodious music of the Mbira and the corresponding poetry of the Shona people he travelled first to Zimbabwe, then Ghana and the Gambia, staying long in each place, living and moving within the society of the traditional musician while expanding his own musical vision. To further facilitate a sharing of ideas he worked as a teaching assistant finding he could learn as much from the children as he could from the masters.
His popular west coast band the King Tide helps bridge these influences back home. He has toured extensively, recorded with award winning artists, and his songs receive national radio airplay. He has taught songwriting, percussion, and guitar at festivals and workshops with many top musicians and instructors.
Peter Joseph Burtt and The King Tide’s new 10-track album ‘Mermaid’s Curse’ is now available.
Peter Joseph Burtt is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for blending American roots music with world music influences, particularly from Africa. His music incorporates elements of blues, folk, and reggae, often featuring traditional African instruments such as the **kora** (a West African harp) and various types of drums.
Burtt’s music is heavily influenced by his time spent living and studying music in Africa. He traveled extensively across the continent, particularly in West Africa, where he learned to play the kora and developed an understanding of African rhythms and musical traditions. This influence is a defining feature of his sound, which merges African music with Western genres like blues and folk.
Despite his global influences, Burtt remains rooted in American blues and folk traditions. His songwriting often features introspective, thoughtful lyrics, delivered in a style reminiscent of classic blues artists.
In addition to the kora, Burtt is a skilled percussionist, playing African drums such as the Djembe. His incorporation of these instruments gives his music a unique, cross-cultural feel. His music has a rhythmic and melodic complexity that reflects his global influences while maintaining a strong connection to American roots music.
Burtt has performed both as a solo artist and with his band, The King Tide, which features a rotating lineup of musicians. The band's sound expands on Burtt’s blend of blues and world music, incorporating reggae, rock, and other genres into their performances.
Peter Joseph Burtt’s music often explores themes of personal growth, spirituality, and connection to nature. His cross-cultural approach to music has earned him a dedicated following, particularly among fans of world music and fusion genres. While he may not be widely known in mainstream circles, his work has been appreciated in the world music and festival scenes.
Burtt’s commitment to blending diverse musical traditions into a cohesive and authentic sound sets him apart as an artist who bridges the gap between different cultures, creating music that is both globally minded and deeply personal.