(WRITTEN BY MOMMY)
Tampa native Ian White was born to rock n’ roll.
Born Aug. 17, 1995, to a drummer dad and music-loving mom, While still in diapers, he accompanied his parents to Elvis Costello, Bruce Springsteen, Rod Stewart and Billy Joel concerts. So, it’s not surprising that he showed an affinity for music early on. Lessons in violin, piano, clarinet and saxophone at a young age whetted his appetite. But his fate was sealed when his mom introduced him to Pink Floyd and The Doors. It was then he realized the guitar was his destiny. He received his first electric guitar at age 10 and, shortly after, added the acoustic guitar, 12-string, ukulele, mandolin, keyboards and harmonica to his repertoire as he began exploring all musical genres – the 1950s blues of Sonny Boy Williamson, the folk traditions of Woody Guthrie, the country influences of Johnny Cash and the ‘60s protest songs of Richie Havens. With that inspiration, White wrote and recorded his first song at the age of 12. Over the last seven years, the 19-year-old musician has continued to hone his songwriting and instrumental talents, performing at local festivals and talent shows throughout Tampa Bay.
Recognizing White's natural songwriting ability, Grammy Museum founder Bob Santelli gave White a coveted spot in the 2013 Grammy Museum Music Revolution Project for young songwriters where White had an opportunity to work with Grammy-winners. and perform one of two solos during the Music Revolution Project finale concert at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, FL. White returned to the MRP in 2014 as an intern, helping other young songwriters write, compose and arrange music.
A 2014 graduate of Tampa Catholic High School, White was awarded a scholarship to attended Loyola University in New Orleans and studied under three-time Grammy-winning producer and Loyola professor John Snyder. You'll find him around New Orleans or his hometown of Tampa Bay.