BIO

Alan Chapell is not just a musician – he’s a cultural alchemist who mixes the sonic textures of the 80s and 90s with the introspective lyricism of the 70s. He blends a lifetime of making music with an advanced degree in privacy and human rights; giving him a rare dual perspective that resonates deeply in his songwriting. His latest album, The Underground Music Show, is a testament to his ability to synthesize beautiful stories with complex themes.

From his early days as a musical prodigy in Stamford, Connecticut, to his groundbreaking recording sessions with legendary producer Jimmy Ienner of Dirty Dancing fame at age 15, Chapell has always been ahead of his time. His travels to Mumbai, India leading the East-West fusion band Kalki further diversified his musical palette, laying the groundwork for his unique sound.

Chapell’s ability to weave complex emotional narratives into catchy melodies, showcased in his critically acclaimed albums recorded over the past decade, hits a rare and invaluable sweet spot for music fans. 2016 saw him introduce the world to the band Chapell with The Redhead’s Allegations, produced by Jerry Harrison of Talking Heads fame. A pair of albums—Soul Man and Love in the Summer of Trouble—followed over the next two years. Along the way, Chapell emerged as a live concert phenomenon.

In 2019, his band reached new peaks on Penultimate – an album where Chapell’s work in privacy and digital media is clearly felt in his lyrics. And the Cinco album released in 2020 was widely considered Chapell’s best album to date and led with the singles “Shout” and “On the Rooftop” which were each reminiscent of New York in a different age – the latter song chronicles a series of 1970’s era rent parties designed to protest NYC’s cabaret laws which outlawed public dancing.

Two Fishes (released in 2022) was a bit more introspective as it juxtaposed Alan’s experiences with his daughter Keily in the aftermath of 9/11 with that of raising his daughter Rose during the COVID pandemic. Singles on Two Fishes included “Gold” (a blues inspired rocker about the one-time king and queen of Stamford, CT) and “Before you Break” (a song where Alan is clearly speaking to his estranged daughter Keily). Interwoven in these albums are songs of protest and commentary about the world around us – in politics, art, the social fabric and more. These are not bubblegum themes, but Chapell keeps the overall tone just upbeat enough – recognizing that there’s nothing more magical than a feeling of hope.

His songs and stories are timeless. The characters within those songs may strike you as deceptively simple upon first listen. Closer inspection reveals layers – inviting you as a listener. Drawing you in. And each of Chapell’s songs carry at least one solid head fake designed to toy with the listener’s perspective. In sum, he puts into words what we might feel and think but can’t express – while also putting aside melodies that have us singing along in no time.

Chapell began writing his latest album, The Underground Music Show during a time when live music had completely shut down. In the darkest of times, one might seek comfort in drinks, drugs, religion, or video games. Chapell admits to having experimented with those things as well. Eventually, he focused his attention once again on his music. And in that, he drew inspiration. He found hope.

Having shared stages with icons like the Gin Blossoms, Lisa Loeb, Bighead Todd and Everclear, Chapell is not just performing music when he plays live. He creates a communal experience, inviting listeners to be part of something larger than themselves. “More than ever, people want to feel like they genuinely belong to something. Similar to how you go to church or yoga or whatever you do within a group in order to ease your soul. For me, the goal is always to draw inspiration from the collective – whether it’s during a more intimate solo concert or with my entire five-piece band. I want to process the human experience with you; to dream with you. Although mostly, I just want to have a good time with you!”