About Gaelynn Lea

Gaelynn Lea has carved out a singular place in contemporary music since winning NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest in 2016. With her haunting songs and cinematic arrangements of live-looped fiddle tunes, she has captivated audiences around the world and gone on to compose the original score for Macbeth on Broadway, starring Daniel Craig and Ruth Negga. Her work moves fluidly across genres — she has collaborated with Michael Stipe, The Decemberists, Wilco, LOW, and Pigface.

In 2026, Algonquin Books published Gaelynn Lea's debut memoir, IT WASN’T MEANT TO BE PERFECT. It's a warm, witty look at music, disability advocacy and the complicated but beautiful life of a touring artist. It has been widely praised by critics and creatives alike. Publishers Weekly wrote that “Lea’s optimism and joie de vivre emanate from the page”. Colin Meloy of The Decemberists called it “a music memoir like no other… An indie rock tell-all told with real humanity and humor.” Kirkus Reviews declared it “a lovely memoir celebrating disability, family, and art.”

Gaelynn is a leading public voice on Disability Culture and accessibility in the arts, with appearances on PBS NewsHour, On Being with Krista Tippett, The Moth Radio Hour, and two widely-viewed TEDx Talks. She also co-founded RAMPD and the Music Inclusion Ensemble, helping to reimagine what inclusion and disability excellence can look and sound like in the music industry. A 2024 recipient of both the Whippoorwill Arts Fellowship and the Disability Futures Fellowship, Gaelynn continues to shape culture with artistry, imagination, compassion, and conviction.

Gaelynn Lea recently launched Creative Living Coaching — a virtual gathering place and monthly coaching program for disabled creatives and aging artists alike. This welcoming community is open to anyone who wants to stay connected with their ever-evolving creative practice in a way that feels aligned with their deepest needs, current capacity, and truest values.

Recognition and Awards

Professional Memberships

• Folk Alliance (FAI) Member
• PRO: BMI
• Recording Academy (GRAMMYs) Voting/Professional Member