Growing up with the Illinois River in his back yard, Daniel Watkins’s roots run deep in the valley. He picked up his first job as a gas attendant at the old lock and dam in Henry. There he would practice guitar while waiting on boaters and playing for tips. Several years later, Watkins wandered the Midwest festival scene as a music enthusiast when he wasn’t working shifts at the local factory. He began studying guitar with Walnut Valley Festival National Guitar & Mandolin champion, Andy Hatfield. Through a new found love of Folk and Bluegrass music, he discovered many artists including John Hartford, Norman Blake, and Steve Goodman who inspired him to begin writing songs of his own.

Daniel released his first full length record in December 2018 and followed it up with his new EP, Clay Birds Vol. I in the spring of 2019. Daniel incorporates musical and topical elements of the current era across the backdrop of traditional folk and bluegrass music. Daniel is most celebrated for his relatable stories, swift flat-picking, and memorable melodies.

In addition to his solo work, Watkins performs as a member of Harvest Sons. He has also shared the stage with acts throughout Illinois and beyond including Willie Watson (formerly of Old Crow Medicine Show), Sierra Ferrell, Henhouse Prowlers, Chicago Farmer, Eric Lambert, Still Shine, and Matthew Michael & Christina Marie.