A Cincinnati band has been recognized as one of the greatest living songwriters in America. The New York Times Magazine released its list of the 30 Greatest Living American Songwriters, followed by a reader’s poll that garnered over 25,000 votes. After an extensive tally, the magazine compiled a list of the top 100, where The National earned a notable position.
Cincinnati Band Among the Greatest Living American Songwriters
The National, formed by Cincinnati natives, ranked No. 85 in the New York Times’ reader-selected greatest living songwriters list. The band consists of Matt Berninger, Aaron Dessner, Bryce Dessner, and brothers Bryan and Scott Devendorf. This achievement places them ahead of notable artists such as Lauryn Hill and Alicia Keys.
Reader Poll Highlights
- The National received 73 votes.
- The band’s success encompasses various music projects from its members.
- Members’ collaborations, such as Aaron Dessner’s work with Taylor Swift, influenced their recognition.
Influence and Contributions to Music
Aaron Dessner co-wrote and co-produced Taylor Swift’s “Folklore,” which won a Grammy for Album of the Year. His contributions to Swift’s work continued with multiple albums, including “Midnights.” The band also features in Swift’s song “Coney Island” from her album “Evermore.”
Background of the Band
The National originated in 1999 in Brooklyn, after the members met while attending the University of Cincinnati. The bond between the members, rooted in their Cincinnati backgrounds, has been a significant influence on their music.
The band has released 10 studio albums, winning a Grammy in 2017 for Best Alternative Music Album with their album “Sleep Well Beast.” Their most recent work includes two albums released in 2023: “First Two Pages of Frankenstein” and “Laugh Track.”
Cincinnati’s Music Scene
The National’s members attribute their musical success to Cincinnati’s vibrant music scene. The city, though not large, provided numerous opportunities for local musicians to connect and perform.
“Cincinnati has a great music scene,” stated Bryce Dessner. “We had different experiences, but were able to explore music in a way that shaped us.” This deep-seated passion for music continues to influence their artistic output.
