Jim Oblon is a versatile guitarist, singer, and drummer who first came to international attention through his work recording and touring with Paul Simon, beginning with the album So Beautiful or So What, on which he played guitar, bass, and drums. Over the course of more than a decade, he became a key contributor in Simon’s band, recording three studio albums and two live records while performing on stages around the world.

 

Beyond his work with Simon, Oblon has toured on guitar and drums with Andrew Bird, and recorded and toured as a guitarist with Lucinda Williams, further establishing his reputation as a dynamic and in-demand multi-instrumentalist.

 

As a solo artist, Oblon has released a series of projects that showcase his deep roots in American music traditions. His 2014 album Sunset features standout performances by Jim Keltner on drums and Larry Goldings on organ. In 2023, he reunited with Keltner for a duo recording exploring the songs of Jimmy Reed, bringing a raw, interpretive approach to Reed’s catalog. His recordings have also welcomed distinguished guests including Robben Ford on guitar and Lloyd Green on pedal steel.

 

Oblon’s evocative rendition of “Where Did You Sleep Last Night” reached a wide audience when it was featured in the season finale of the HBO series True Blood.