Dennen's folk-rock blend at the Bluebird

Brett Dennen says he never planned on being a professional musician. It just happened.

The popular folk musician will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Bluebird Nightclub.

A California native, Dennen started in a college jam band playing mandolin. A few years later, Dennen left the group.

“I felt I was more of a songwriter,” he said.

At the time, Dennen had worked for a non-profit organization and continued with his life, not necessarily without musical aspirations in mind.

“I always liked music and being in a band,” he said. “But I mean, I never had the dream to be in a band.”

Through some small projects, however, his music started to become a more prominent part of his life. He started to dabble in songwriting and established himself as an artist slowly while working. He released his first album in 2004 and has taken the folk world by storm ever since, releasing four albums in the past seven years.

Dennen said he owes his musical momentum to Van Morrison, his greatest inspiration in songwriting.

“I like a lot of folks, but I think Van Morrison is my all-time favorite,” he said. “His music is without compromise, and his voice is amazing.”

This artistic inspiration can be heard in much of his work, including his new album, “Loverboy.”

In addition to being a musician, Dennen is also involved with charities.

Klean Kanteen water bottles are sold on his website. According to the site, if you purchase one of the water bottles, $5 will be donated to the Mosaic Project, an organization that sends “low income students to attend our unique human relations outdoor school,” where students in 4th and 5th grade get a unique educational experience outdoors.

Dennen’s style is a folk-rock blend that has landed him on tour with artists like Jack Johnson, Jason Mraz and John Mayer. Dennen said he enjoys the tours for what they are: showcases of music.

“The best part (of touring) is playing gigs every night,” he said. “Being on the road forces you to always be around music. When I’m home around my house, I might not always be playing.”

Dennen said he is excited to be back in Bloomington and spoke fondly of the town and its people.

“I love your small town,” he said. “It’s a great small town with a worldly feel. There are a lot of hippies there and lots of college students. It’s one of my favorite small towns in America.”

— Brittany Tempest