Cleveland-born Wilcox was inspired to play guitar after hearing a fellow college student playing in a stairwell. His lyrical insight is matched by a smooth baritone voice, virtuosic guitar chops, and creative open tunings, giving him a range and tenderness rare in folk music.

He released an independent album in 1987, was a winner of the prestigious Kerrville Folk Festival New Folk award in 1988, and by 1989 he had signed with A&M Records. His first release on the label, “How Did You Find Me Here” sold over 100,000 copies the first year largely by word of mouth.

Now, 17 albums into a career marked by personal revelation and wildly loyal fans, Wilcox continues to find and deliver joy, inspiration, and invention. Considered a songwriter’s songwriter, his songs have been covered by artist k.d. lang and many others.

In addition to his writing prowess, his skills as a performer and storyteller are unmatched. He holds audiences rapt with nothing more than a single guitar, thoroughly written songs, a fearless ability to mine the depths of human emotions of joy, sorrow and everything in between, and all tempered by a quick and wry wit.

Reflecting on well over 20 years of record-making and touring extensively around the U.S. and the world, Wilcox said, “Music still stretches out before me like the headlights of a car into the night. It’s way beyond where I am, but it shows where I’m going. I used to think that my goal was to catch up, but now I’m grateful that the music is always going to be way out in front to inspire me.”

Advance tickets are $16. Tickets purchased on the day of the concert are $21. The box office is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday.  Tickets are also available online at boothbayoperahouse.com or by calling 207-633-5159. The  doors for seating open at 7 p.m.