Who's thAt mAn?

Ed Randazzo performs for the 8th season kickoff of the Listening Room Concert Series in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. © Oren B. Helbok Photography and courtesy of The Exchange.

"… An affable, soft-spoken genuine soul… with a scathing mouthpiece of fire 'n brimstone—part Bob Dylan tortured song-writing introspection, part Mississippi Fred McDowell world-weary, heavy-hearted bluesman… with a Leonard Cohen-Esque delivery."

—Mark Uricheck; Connections Magazine, June 2012

 

“… a captivating deep voice that summons the spirits.”

-Jim Hynes; Elmore Magazine, March 2019

 

"If you’ve never seen Ed and only heard his voice, meeting him in person is the most “no fucking way” moment of all time. He sounds as big as Howlin’ Wolf but can probably fit inside Wolf’s guitar case."

—Tom Flannery, Singer-songwriter, musician & playwright for Scranton Time - bits and pieces, September 2024

Ed Randazzo: A Journey through Music and Collaboration
The Uniquely Emotional and Roots-filled Musical Career of a Northeastern Pennsylvania Singer-Songwriter

Ed Randazzo, the acclaimed singer-songwriter from Northeastern Pennsylvania, is celebrated for his distinctive blend of roots music and his emotionally captivating stage presence. His artistic journey has been profoundly shaped by his long-time collaboration with Bret Alexander, another talented Pennsylvania singer-songwriter, producer, and founding member of Central Pennsylvania’s notable band, The Badlees.

 

Randazzo and Alexander have produced three full-length albums and several notable singles that resonate deeply with listeners. Their musical partnership has given rise to tracks such as "Ring Them Bells" (2008), "Still Cry" (2012), and "I Need a Woman" (2015). These songs have garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following, showcasing their unique synergy and creative prowess. To commemorate a decade of musical collaboration, the duo released "Who's That Man? Collected Songs 2008-2018" in 2018. It offers fans a curated collection of their work in various formats, including a limited vinyl pressing.

 

Randazzo's ability to connect with audiences extends beyond studio recordings and into live performances. He has shared the stage with renowned artists, enriching his musical tapestry and exposure. Among these artists are Spencer Bohren, Gabriel Gordon, three-time Blues Music Award nominee Alexis P. Suter, Grammy Award winner Mike Farris, and various local talents such as Mike Miz, Dustin Douglas & the Electric Gentlemen, Clarence Spady, Phyllis Hopkins, and Teddy Young. Each collaboration and performance has allowed Randazzo to hone his craft and expand his reach, contributing to his recognition as a significant figure in the Pennsylvania music scene.

 

Ed Randazzo has been featured throughout Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania for over fifteen years, delivering compelling performances that leave a lasting impact. His dedication and talent have earned him three nominations for Scranton, Pennsylvania’s Steamtown Music Award. In 2015, he won the Blues/Rhythm & Blues Act of the Year award, further cementing his reputation as a premier blues artist. His contributions to the arts extend beyond live shows and recordings; Randazzo provided music for the 2017 PBS documentary 'Black Guides of Mammoth Cave' and has been featured on NPR, highlighting the breadth of his artistic endeavors.


In the fall of 2018, Randazzo's musical journey marked a new chapter as he relocated to Erie, Pennsylvania. This move marked a significant shift in his life and career, reflecting his continual effort to evolve and explore new musical landscapes. Despite the geographic change, his commitment to crafting heartfelt and resonant music remained steadfast.


By 2021, Ed Randazzo began piecing together material with Bret Alexander and Scranton native Tom Flannery for a new record. This collaboration promised to infuse fresh creativity and perspectives into their work. The culmination of this effort arrived in late May 2023, when Randazzo returned to Northeastern Pennsylvania to join Alexander in the studio. Together, they recorded “Wishing on a Train,” an album slated for release on Friday, August 30, 2024. This highly anticipated project marks Randazzo’s first album of new material in close to a decade, signaling a return to his roots and a renewed focus on original compositions.

 

Ed Randazzo's musical journey reflects his enduring passion and artistic resilience. Through collaborations, live performances, and heartfelt recordings, he continues to captivate audiences while significantly contributing to Pennsylvania's musical legacy. With "Wishing on a Train," fans and newcomers alike can anticipate the next chapter in Randazzo's illustrious career, filled with the promise of new sounds and stories that resonate deeply.