Hubbry Logo
Jeff TweedyJeff TweedyMain
Open search
Jeff Tweedy
Community hub
Jeff Tweedy
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Jeff Tweedy
Jeff Tweedy
Jeff Tweedy
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Key Information

Jeffrey Scot Tweedy (born August 25, 1967) is an American musician, singer songwriter, author, and record producer best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the band Wilco. Tweedy, originally from Belleville, Illinois, began his music career in high school with his band The Plebes along with Jay Farrar, also in the band. The Plebes later became the alternative country band Uncle Tupelo.

After Uncle Tupelo broke up Tweedy formed Wilco which found critical and commercial success, most notably with Yankee Hotel Foxtrot and A Ghost Is Born. The latter received a Grammy for Best Alternative Album in 2005.

During his career Tweedy has released 20 studio albums including four with Uncle Tupelo, twelve with Wilco, one with his son Spencer, a solo acoustic album, three solo studio albums, along with numerous collaborations with other musicians, most notably Mermaid Avenue with Billy Bragg.[1][2]

Early life

[edit]

Tweedy was born in Belleville on August 25, 1967,[3] the fourth child of Bob and JoAnn Tweedy (née Werkmeister).[4] Bob Tweedy (died August 4, 2017)[5] worked for Alton & Southern Railroad in East St. Louis; JoAnn was a kitchen designer.[1]: 11–15  Tweedy grew up with three siblings, older brother Greg Tweedy (died in 2013), brother Steven Tweedy, and sister Debbie Voll.[4]

Tweedy's mother bought him his first guitar when he was six years old, although he did not begin to play it seriously until he was twelve. Apparently Tweedy told people that he knew how to play the guitar once he got his first guitar, even though he did not know how to play.

When he was twelve, Tweedy was injured in a bicycle accident and was laid up for the summer. He decided to learn how to play a few chords before somebody "called him out" on the lie.[1] On an appearance of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, he remembered attending an X concert as a youngster in St. Louis. The Replacements opened, and Paul Westerberg, their guitarist and vocalist, fell off the stage while performing. Tweedy recalls thinking "That looks like fun!"[6]

In 1981, when Tweedy was fourteen years old, he befriended Jay Farrar during an English class at Belleville Township High School West.[1]: 10  All of the members of Farrar's family enjoyed playing music; he already knew rock and roll music very well. By that time, Tweedy was a fan of The Ramones and country music while Farrar enjoyed The Sex Pistols.[7] Tweedy attended Belleville Area College and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.[1]

Career

[edit]

Early music

[edit]

In the early 1980s, Tweedy joined The Plebes, a rockabilly band, with brothers Wade and Dade Farrar which Tweedy joined in order to qualify for a battle of the bands competition. They won.[1]: 10, 17 [8] Tweedy pushed The Plebes away from the rockabilly music that they had been playing, which caused Dade Farrar to leave the band. The band renamed themselves The Primatives in 1984, taking their name from a song by garage rock band The Groupies.[1]: 18 [9] Wade Farrar sang lead vocals and played harmonica, Jay Farrar played guitar, Tweedy played bass guitar, and Mike Heidorn played drums. In late 1986, the band decided to change their name to Uncle Tupelo, because a more popular British band was also using the name "The Primitives".[10] The Primatives went on hiatus in 1986 after Wade Farrar left the band to finish his engineering degree at Southern Illinois University.[1]: 22  While waiting for Wade to return from campus, Farrar, Tweedy, and Heidorn formed Uncle Tupelo.

Uncle Tupelo (1987–1994)

[edit]
Main article: Uncle Tupelo

At his parents' request, Tweedy attended several universities, but dropped out of all of them to concentrate on Uncle Tupelo. While moonlighting as a record store clerk at Euclid Records in St. Louis,[11][12] Tweedy met Tony Margherita. After Margherita saw the band perform at an acoustic concert in 1988, he decided to become the band's manager. The band began playing regular shows at Cicero's basement bar in the Delmar Loop near Washington University in St. Louis with other bands playing in a similar style.[1]: 24–26 [10] Uncle Tupelo recorded a ten-track demo tape entitled Not Forever, Just For Now in 1989, attracting the attention of Giant/Rockville Records. The independent label signed the band, and Uncle Tupelo's first album, No Depression, was released the next year.[10] The title song, originally performed by the Carter Family, became strongly associated with the alternative country scene, and became the name of an influential alternative country periodical called No Depression.

During times when Uncle Tupelo was not touring, Tweedy and Farrar played as Coffee Creek, a short-lived cover band with The Bottle Rockets' Brian Henneman and Mark Ortmann.[13] Around this time, Tweedy began developing problems with alcohol, leading to tensions between Tweedy and Farrar. While he never refused to play a gig, Tweedy was forced to sit out in place of Henneman at some performances. Tweedy quit drinking entirely after meeting future wife Sue Miller, although he replaced this habit with smoking marijuana. However, after developing a dependence on marijuana, he quickly quit using it, as well.[1]: 51–53, 95  After releasing Still Feel Gone, the band formed a friendship with Peter Buck of R.E.M., who produced their third album March 16–20, 1992 for free.[1] Uncle Tupelo left the Rockville label in favor of Sire Records (Warner) later in 1992 because Rockville refused to pay the band any royalties for their albums.[1]: 72  After the signing, Max Johnston and John Stirratt joined the band as Mike Heidorn was replaced by Bill Belzer who was later replaced by Ken Coomer.[1]: 74–75  The five-piece band recorded Anodyne, which sold over 150,000 copies and debuted at number 18 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart, but was the last album Uncle Tupelo released.[1]: 80 [14]

Breakup

[edit]

In January 1994, Farrar called Tony Margherita to tell him that the band was breaking up, saying that he was not having any fun in the band anymore and was not getting along with Tweedy. Tweedy was enraged that Farrar decided to break up the band without notifying him, and this led to a series of harsh verbal exchanges. Farrar and Tweedy agreed to a final Uncle Tupelo tour, but the concerts were marred by the two not participating in each other's songs. The band decided to play Tweedy's "The Long Cut" on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, which further distanced Farrar and Tweedy.[1]: 80–84  Farrar began to assemble a new band named Son Volt with Mike Heidorn, bassist Jim Boquist, and his brother Dave Boquist. At the same time, Jeff Tweedy formed Wilco with Stirratt, Johnston, and Coomer.[1]: 88, 90 

Wilco (1995–present)

[edit]
Main article: Wilco

In 1994, Tweedy formed Wilco with John Stirratt, Max Johnston, and Ken Coomer. Wilco has released twelve albums and found commercial success with their albums Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, A Ghost Is Born, Sky Blue Sky and Wilco. The band also released two collaboration albums with Billy Bragg and one with The Minus 5. Jeff Tweedy has been the recipient of two Grammy Awards, including Best Alternative Album for A Ghost Is Born. Tweedy has also participated in a number of side groups including Golden Smog and Loose Fur, published a book of poems, and released a DVD of solo performances. He was originally influenced by punk and country music, but has later reflected more experimental themes in his music.

Tweedy singing with Wilco in 2007

Wilco signed with Reprise/Warner Bros. Records and began recording AM almost as soon as the band was formed.[1]: 89–91  After recording, Tweedy was introduced to Jay Bennett, who then joined the band. Also during this time, Tweedy quit smoking marijuana after a particularly bad experience with some cannabis brownies.[1]: 94–96  A.M. did not fare as well commercially in comparison to Son Volt's first album, only reaching number 27 on the Heatseekers chart while Son Volt's debut Trace hit the Billboard 200.[15][16] Dan Murphy of Soul Asylum invited Tweedy to join him in a supergroup named Golden Smog with Gary Louris and Marc Perlman of the Jayhawks, Kraig Johnson of Run Westy Run, and Noah Levy of The Honeydogs. Under the pseudonym Scott Summit, Tweedy released Down by the Old Mainstream with Golden Smog in 1996.[1]: 105–106 

Tweedy and Wilco began to explore new styles and broke from the style of previous recordings on the seminal sprawling double album Being There in 1996. Tweedy did not write music for many of the songs ahead of time, and welcomed unexpected sounds into the recording. Wilco recorded nineteen songs for the double-CD album, and wanted the label to release it with a retail price comparable to a single-CD release.[1]: 113, 116  Being There was a commercial success, selling 300,000 copies and peaking in the top half of the Billboard 200.[17] Reprise records invested $100,000 in the single "Outta Mind (Outtasite)", but received little radio exposure.[1]: 125 [18] While on tour, Tweedy began to spend time reading books by William H. Gass, Henry Miller, and John Fante. As he read their books, Tweedy decided to place more of an emphasis on writing.[1]: 136  Representatives in the A&R department of Reprise wanted a radio single from Summerteeth, and Wilco reluctantly agreed to a re-working of "Can't Stand It". The single was a top five hit on adult album alternative radio stations, but failed to cross over to a larger audience.[1]: 162–167 

Before the release of Summerteeth, the daughter of the late folk legend Woody Guthrie contacted folk rock singer Billy Bragg, who in turn contacted Tweedy about recording an album of unreleased Woody Guthrie songs. Tweedy was indifferent to the idea of working with Bragg, but Jay Bennett's enthusiasm about the idea convinced Tweedy to get the band involved in the project. As a result of Tweedy's feelings on the political nature of some of the lyrics, Bragg recorded mostly political songs while Wilco recorded more neutral songs.[citation needed] Almost all of the songs that appeared on Mermaid Avenue and Mermaid Avenue Vol. II were recorded over a six-day period in December 1997.[1]: 142–145  The first Mermaid Avenue album and a second Golden Smog album (Weird Tales) were released in 1998, Summerteeth was released in early 1999, and Mermaid Avenue Vol. II was released in 2000. Tweedy received his first Grammy nomination when Mermaid Avenue was nominated for Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album in 1999.[19]

Yankee Hotel Foxtrot

[edit]
Wilco at MassMoca

Jeff Tweedy was invited to play at Chicago's Noise Pop festival, and was told that he could collaborate with a musician of his choosing. Tweedy chose Jim O'Rourke based on his fascination with O'Rourke's Bad Timing album. O'Rourke offered to bring drummer Glenn Kotche to the festival, and the trio formed a side project named Loose Fur. The other band members of Wilco had written a number of songs for Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, but Tweedy was unsatisfied with them because he believed that the songs did not sound like the ones he played with Loose Fur. Tweedy became such a fan of Kotche's playing style that he decided to dismiss Ken Coomer from the band in favor of Kotche.[1]: 176–183, 188  Tweedy had strong feelings about how songs should be sequenced, which clashed with Jay Bennett's focus on the songs themselves. Because Bennett was mixing the album, this led to a series of arguments between songs about how the album should sound. Tweedy asked O'Rourke to remix several songs on the album that had been mixed by Bennett, which caused tensions within the band to escalate. The album was completed in June 2001, and Tweedy was insistent that it was in its final form.[1]: 197–200 [20] Tweedy also fired Bennett around this time, believing (according to Bennett) that Wilco should only have one core member.[20] The band maintains that the firing of Bennett was a collective decision.[21]

Reprise Records' parent company Time Warner merged with America Online in 2001, and the recording company was asked to cut costs. Howie Klein, the CEO of Reprise Records, considered Wilco to be one of the label's core bands, but was offered a lucrative buy-out by AOL Time Warner. Reprise did not consider the album commercially viable and was not interested in releasing the album. David Kahne (Head of A&R) agreed to release Wilco from Reprise under the condition that Wilco got to keep all legal entitlements to the Yankee Hotel Foxtrot album.[1]: 201–207 [20] After an article in the Chicago Tribune publicly described these managerial practices, CEO Gary Briggs quit.[1]: 208–209  Shortly after leaving the label, Briggs remarked:

It [dropping Wilco from the label] should never have happened. One of the most embarrassing moments in my career at Warner Brothers was the day they let Wilco go. It broke my heart, and it told me that I no longer have a home there.[1]: 208–209 

Yankee Hotel Foxtrot was originally scheduled to be released on Reprise on September 11, 2001, prior to the band's departure from Reprise. Seven days later, Tweedy decided that he would stream the entirety of Yankee Hotel Foxtrot on Wilco's official website.[1]: 225  Over thirty record labels offered to release Yankee Hotel Foxtrot after the departure from Reprise was official.[22] One of the thirty was Warner Brothers affiliate Nonesuch Records, who signed Wilco in November 2001. AOL Time Warner paid Wilco to make the album on Reprise, gave them the record for free, and then bought it back on the Nonesuch label.[1]: 209–210  The album was released on April 23, 2002 to significant critical acclaim, including being named the best album of the year by The Village Voice.[23][24] The album became the biggest hit of Jeff Tweedy's career and was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America for selling over 500,000 copies.[25]

A Ghost Is Born

[edit]
Tweedy in 2007

Scott McCaughey contacted Tweedy about recording an album together for a The Minus 5 release. They scheduled a meeting for September 11, 2001, but were reluctant to enter the recording studio after the terrorist attacks. At night, McCaughey and Tweedy decided to begin recording songs as a way to calm down. A few more tracks were later added to the album with the rest of Wilco, and it was released with the name Down with Wilco in 2003.[1]: 220–222 

In November 2003, Wilco began recording a fifth studio album. Unlike their previous albums, all of the songs were originally performed in the studio and then later adapted for playing at concerts. Wilco released A Ghost Is Born on June 22, 2004, and it attained a top ten peak on the Billboard 200.[26] The album was awarded with Grammy Awards for Best Alternative Music Album and Best Recording Package in 2005.[27] A few weeks before the album's release, Tweedy released a book of forty-three poems entitled Adult Head on Zoo Press.[28] The following year, the band released their first live album, a two-disc set entitled Kicking Television: Live in Chicago, recorded at The Vic Theater.[29]

Later Wilco albums

[edit]

Wilco recorded twelve tracks for a sixth studio album entitled Sky Blue Sky, which was released on May 15, 2007.[30] Sky Blue Sky debuted at number four on the Billboard 200, the band's highest debut yet. It sold over 87,000 copies in its first week of release.[31]

In early May 2009, former Wilco member Jay Bennett sued Tweedy for breach of contract.[32] Bennett died later that month of an accidental overdose of the painkiller fentanyl.[33] In June 2009 Wilco released their seventh studio album Wilco (The Album), followed by The Whole Love in 2011, Star Wars in 2015, Schmilco in 2016, Ode to Joy in 2019, Cruel Country in May 2022, and Cousin in 2023.

Other work

[edit]

Jeff Tweedy has performed several solo tours, on which he typically plays acoustic music. He also recorded the song "Simple Twist of Fate" for the soundtrack to I'm Not There.[34] On October 24, 2006, Nonesuch Records released Sunken Treasure: Live in the Pacific Northwest, a live DVD by Tweedy. The disc includes performances and conversations gathered over five nights on Tweedy's February 2006 solo acoustic tour, with footage from concerts at Seattle's Moore Theater, Portland's Crystal Ballroom, Eugene's McDonald Theatre, Arcata's Humboldt State University, and The Fillmore in San Francisco. The DVD was directed by Christoph Green and Fugazi's Brendan Canty, the creators of the documentary series Burn to Shine.[35]

Tweedy has partnered with Mavis Staples on three acclaimed albums. In 2010 they released You Are Not Alone, in 2013, One True Vine, and in 2017 If All I Was Was Black. Tweedy played an array of instruments on these albums and wrote many of the songs.[36]

Tweedy worked with the psychedelic-influenced garage rock group White Denim on their record Corsicana Lemonade, recording some songs at Wilco's Chicago studio The Loft.[37] In 2015 the album Still by Richard Thompson was released. The album was produced by Tweedy in The Loft Studios and features Tweedy on guitar, keyboards and backing vocals.[38]

Tweedy has appeared as a fictional singer-songwriter on 2014 episodes of Parks and Recreation and Portlandia.[39]

On June 4, 2014, it was announced that he had formed a new band called Tweedy with his son Spencer. The band's debut album Sukierae was released on September 16. The release was followed by a world tour in which half of the set consisted of new songs off Sukierae performed by a touring band including Spencer. The latter half of the set Tweedy plays solo, typically performing Wilco and Uncle Tupelo classics.[40][41]

In June 2017 Jeff Tweedy released a solo acoustic album of eleven songs spanning his career from Wilco, Loose Fur, and Golden Smog titled Together at Last.[42] In November 2018 Jeff Tweedy released a memoir titled Let's Go (So We Can Get Back) and his first solo album of new material, titled Warm.[43] A companion album to Warm titled Warmer was released on April 13, 2019, as a Record Store Day exclusive.[44]

In 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic Susan Tweedy and her family created a recurring video series on Instagram dubbed The Tweedy Show featuring Jeff and their sons performing original and cover songs.[45] During the shelter-in-place Jeff Tweedy also wrote and recorded his third solo album titled Love Is the King which was announced to release on October 23, 2020[46] and wrote his second book titled How to Write One Song which was announced to release on October 13, 2020, on the E. P. Dutton publishing label.[47] His third book, World Within a Song, was released in November 2023.[48]

In September 2025, Tweedy released a triple-album of new solo material, Twilight Override.[49] He wrote the album over a two year period and recorded the 30 tracks in collaboration with friends and both of his sons, Sammy and Spencer.[50]

Musical style

[edit]
Jeff Tweedy and Glenn Kotche Wilco at Susquehanna Bank Center XPoNential Music Festival 2012

Tweedy's musical style has varied over his music career. Tweedy's vocal style is considered nasal, emotional, and raspy, and has been compared to that of Neil Young.[7][51] His first exposure to music was through gramophone records that his siblings left behind when they attended college, and he particularly liked The Beatles' White Album. Tweedy would frequently read issues of magazines such as Rolling Stone, and began to purchase punk rock albums such as The Clash's London Calling and X's Wild Gift. Belleville crowds did not respond well to punk music, so while Tweedy was a member of The Primitives they played covers of country songs at much faster tempos.[1]: 13–19  When Uncle Tupelo formed, the band began composing its own songs influenced by Jason & the Scorchers and The Minutemen.[1] Wilco's first album shared many musical similarities with the four previous Uncle Tupelo albums, but on Being There, Tweedy began introducing more experimental themes into his music. He claims that he wanted to rebel against the belief spread by the No Depression magazine that Wilco was primarily a country band.[1]: 110–111  One of the most influential albums for Tweedy was Bad Timing by Jim O'Rourke, which helped to inspire Yankee Hotel Foxtrot and A Ghost Is Born.[1]: 176–177  Tweedy uses a 1957 Gibson J-45 acoustic guitar, as well as a 1965 Fender Jazzmaster, at least three different Telecasters, an Epiphone Casino, a Rickenbacker 360, and a Gibson SG Standard. He has vintage SGs from '62 and '65 as well as a 2007 Custom Shop model and a 2008 Custom Shop Vintage Original Spec (V.O.S.) that are all rigged with Maestro tremolo bars.[52] He also has been known to use a Breedlove 000[53] and even designed a limited edition 000 for Breedlove in 2007.[54] His amplifier of choice is a Vox AC30.

Personal life

[edit]

Tweedy has been prone to having migraines throughout his life; he has missed as many as forty days of elementary school in one year with the condition.[1]: 50 [20] While he attempted to regulate the use of painkillers, he was never able to stop using them for more than five weeks. He attributes that to a comorbidity with major depressive disorder and severe panic attacks.[55] In 2004, he entered a dual diagnosis rehabilitation clinic in order to receive treatment for an addiction to prescription painkiller Vicodin.[56][57][58] Tweedy quit smoking the next year; John Stirratt claimed afterward that significantly improved the focus of the band.[59][60]

Tweedy is married to former bookkeeper Sue Miller and lives in the Irving Park area of Chicago.[61] He first met Miller when he was trying to get Uncle Tupelo booked at Cubby Bear, where Miller worked. Miller also worked in a club in Chicago named Lounge Ax in 1989, and booked Uncle Tupelo for 16 shows over four years. They began dating in 1991 and were married on August 9, 1995.[1]: 53, 96  She was diagnosed with cancer in 2014. During a 2015 interview with Rolling Stone, Tweedy said "she's doing great now."

Tweedy also said that music is a healthy distraction in such difficult times.[62] They have two sons: Spencer and Sam. Spencer was the drummer for pre-teen rock band The Blisters and a new band called Tully Monster.[63] In 2008, Spencer joined Wilco on stage at Madison Square Garden to play drums on their song "The Late Greats," while opening for Neil Young.[64] Tweedy has converted to Judaism.[65] His wife is Jewish; their sons both had Bar Mitzvah ceremonies.[66] During the ceremony for his older son, Tweedy played an acoustic version of Bob Dylan's "Forever Young".[67]

In November 2019 Tweedy's home in Irving Park was shot at least seven times in an attack described by his son as "not targeted".[61] No injuries were reported.

Selected discography

[edit]
Main article: Jeff Tweedy discography

Solo

[edit]

With Uncle Tupelo

[edit]

With Wilco

[edit]

With Tweedy

[edit]

Publications

[edit]
  • Tweedy, Jeff (2004). Adult Head: Poems (registration required). Lincoln, Neb.: Zoo Press. ISBN 978-1-932-02316-9. OCLC 54372673.
  • Saunders, George (2017). Lincoln in the Bardo (audiobook edition). Narration: Jeff Tweedy. New York: Random House Audio. ASIN B01N1NU4K2. OCLC 971025602.
  • Tweedy, Jeff (2018). Let's Go (So We Can Get Back): A Memoir of Recording and Discording with Wilco, Etc. New York: Dutton Books. ISBN 9781101985267. OCLC 1051778815. Autobiography.
  • Tweedy, Jeff (2020). How to Write One Song. New York: Dutton Books. ISBN 0593183525. OCLC 1175678766.
  • Tweedy, Jeff (2023). World Within a Song. New York: Penguin Random House. ISBN 9780593472521. OCLC 1370328036.

See also

[edit]

Notes and references

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jeff Tweedy

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Jeff Tweedy (born August 25, 1967) is an American , , , and best known as the co-founder and frontman of the band . Born in , Tweedy grew up in a working-class family and began his musical career in the late 1980s as a co-founder of the alt-country band alongside , which helped pioneer the genre through albums like No Depression (1990) and Anodyne (1993). Following Uncle Tupelo's dissolution in 1994, Tweedy formed with remaining band members, evolving the group's sound toward experimental and achieving critical acclaim with albums such as (1996), (1999), and the landmark (2002), which faced a tumultuous release but solidified 's influence. earned a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album for (2004), and Tweedy personally received four Grammy wins, including Best Historical Album for the 20th anniversary edition of in 2023, along with 11 nominations. has released 13 studio albums to date, with recent works like (2019), Cruel Country (2022), and Cousin (2023) showcasing Tweedy's continued exploration of , and introspective songwriting. Beyond Wilco, Tweedy has pursued a solo career, releasing albums including Warm (2018), Love Is the King (2020), and the triple album Twilight Override (2025), which reflects on themes of life and wonder. He has also produced records for artists like Mavis Staples, contributing songs to her albums You Are Not Alone (2010) and others, and operates The Loft recording studio in Chicago with his wife, Susan Tweedy. As an author, Tweedy has penned three New York Times bestsellers: the memoir Let's Go (So We Can Get Back) (2018), the songwriting guide How to Write One Song (2020), and the music essay collection World Within a Song (2023).

Background

Early life

Jeff Tweedy was born on August 25, 1967, in , the youngest of four children to Bob Tweedy, a railroad worker, and JoAnn Tweedy, a kitchen designer. His older siblings included brothers and Steven, and sister . Growing up in a working-class household in the Midwestern manufacturing town, which Tweedy later described as "depressing and depressed," he experienced a modest, blue-collar environment shaped by his parents' steady but unremarkable jobs. Tweedy's initial exposure to music came through the records left behind by his older siblings as they left for college, sparking his fascination with rock acts like , whose innovative soundscapes particularly captivated him. His mother purchased his first guitar when he was six years old, though he did not seriously pursue playing until his teenage years. By age 13 or 14, he had immersed himself in the family's attic, where he discovered punk and alternative records by bands such as the Replacements and , which helped him uncover a "secret self" amid the constraints of small-town life. During his high school years at Belleville West High School, Tweedy formed his first band, The Plebes, around 1984, a group that included classmate . The two bonded over their shared enthusiasm for punk and alternative music, despite local crowds' tepid response to the genre, leading Tweedy to experiment in garage bands that blended faster country covers with emerging underground influences. These formative experiences in Belleville's suburban scene laid the groundwork for his evolving musical identity.

Personal life

Jeff Tweedy married Susan Miller on August 6, 1995, after meeting her in the late in , where she worked as a talent booker for influential venues like the Lounge Ax, and he sought gigs for his band . The couple has two sons: Spencer, born in 1995, who later joined as its drummer, and Sammy, born in 1999, who has participated in family musical projects. Their family life has been marked by close creative bonds, including the formation of the band Tweedy with Spencer for the 2014 album Sukierae, a project that provided emotional support during Susan's diagnosis that year. Tweedy has openly discussed his struggles with , including use in the and a severe in the early 2000s that stemmed from painkillers prescribed for migraines, anxiety, and depression. This culminated in a rehab stay in April 2004, after which he has maintained , crediting it with fostering greater personal stability and clarity in his relationships. His recovery has subtly influenced later songwriting themes, emphasizing resilience and . Since the late 1990s, the Tweedys have resided in Chicago's Irving Park neighborhood, where Jeff has been actively involved in the local music scene through The Loft, a third-floor warehouse studio that serves as 's creative hub and a resource for emerging artists. This space has not only supported his family collaborations but also contributed to community initiatives, reinforcing his personal growth amid ongoing artistic pursuits.

Career

Early career

After graduating from high school in , Jeff Tweedy joined the rockabilly band The Plebes with high school friends including brothers Wade and Dade Farrar, performing covers in local venues around the area. The group briefly evolved into in 1985, where Tweedy played bass alongside on guitar, Wade Farrar on vocals and harmonica, and on drums, shifting to '60s garage-rock covers while playing gigs in Belleville and nearby spots. Post-high school, Tweedy relocated to the area and briefly enrolled at before dropping out to dedicate himself to music full-time. He immersed himself in the local music scene, influenced by college radio stations broadcasting alternative and punk sounds across the Midwest, which exposed him to broader rock influences beyond his initial roots. During this period, Tweedy experimented with early songwriting amid the band's focus on covers, gradually incorporating original material as The Primitives played regular shows, including at St. Louis venues like Mississippi Nights in 1986. These performances and informal recordings captured the group's energetic sets, laying groundwork for Tweedy's growing interest in blending punk energy with country elements in the alt-country vein.

Uncle Tupelo

was formed in 1987 in , by Jeff Tweedy on guitar and vocals, Jay Farrar on guitar and vocals, and drummer , initially as a punk-influenced group drawing from bands like the and . The trio reformed their high school band after its lead singer departed for college, blending raw punk energy with emerging interests in country and folk traditions. This foundation in Belleville's local scene allowed them to develop a distinctive sound that would pioneer the alt-country genre. The band's debut album, No Depression, released in 1990 on Rockville Records, established their alt-country sound by merging punk's urgency with country's high-lonesome twang, including a cover of the Carter Family's "No Depression in Heaven" that lent the album its title. Produced by Sean Slade and Paul Kolderie at Fort Apache Studios, the record captured rust-belt angst and traditional elements, setting a template for the genre. Their follow-up, the 1991 album , maintained this raw energy with tracks showcasing the dual songwriting of Tweedy and Farrar, while the 1992 release —recorded live over five days and produced by 's —introduced greater acoustic depth and folk covers, reflecting an evolving maturity. By their major-label debut Anodyne in 1993 on /, the band shifted toward rock elements, incorporating electric guitars and a fuller production that amplified their songcraft. As gained recognition, internal tensions mounted between Tweedy and Farrar, stemming from creative differences over songwriting credits, musical direction, and personal dynamics, which became palpable during the recording of . These conflicts, exacerbated by the pressures of touring and industry expectations, led to the band's breakup in late 1994 following the tour, with the final show on November 12 in . Tweedy retained most of the rhythm section to form a new group, while Farrar recruited Heidorn for his own project.

Wilco

Wilco was formed in 1994 by Jeff Tweedy along with the remaining members of —bassist , drummer , and multi-instrumentalist Max Johnston—after the band's dissolution following co-founder Jay Farrar's departure. Multi-instrumentalist joined during the recording of the band's third album in 1999, contributing keyboards and guitar to expand the group's sonic palette. The band's debut album, A.M. (1995), leaned into country-rock roots with straightforward alt-country songs, marking a transitional effort from their prior work but receiving mixed critical response. Wilco's second album, (1996), arrived as a and achieved critical acclaim for its ambitious scope, blending rock, , and power-pop elements while exploring themes of fame and isolation. The band entered an experimental phase with (1999), incorporating lush pop arrangements influenced by 1960s acts like and , which contrasted the darker lyrical content beneath its ornate production. Their next record, (2002), pushed boundaries further with abstract soundscapes and electronic textures; after rejected it over high production costs and commercial viability, Wilco streamed the album for free online, leading to its sale to and widespread acclaim as a landmark of . A Ghost Is Born (2004) earned Wilco a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album, featuring noisy improvisations and raw energy that built on the prior album's innovations. Guitarist Nels Cline joined the band that year, infusing jazz and avant-garde elements into their sound. Sky Blue Sky (2007) shifted toward a jazzier, more organic vibe with live-band recordings emphasizing melody and restraint. This was followed by Wilco (The Album) (2009), a Grammy-nominated effort that balanced eclectic styles with accessible songcraft. The band's later releases continued their evolution: The Whole Love (2011) marked their first self-released album on dBpm Records, showcasing adventurous production and emotional depth. Star Wars (2015) was surprise-dropped as a free digital download, delivering abrasive rock experiments that surprised fans with its abrupt style. Ode to Joy (2019) adopted a subdued, introspective folk-rock approach, praised for its directness amid personal and societal reflections. Cruel Country (2022), a sprawling double album of 21 tracks, returned to country influences with mostly live-in-studio recordings, capturing the band's collaborative intimacy. In 2025, without new studio material, Wilco issued streaming-only live compilations Wilco Live (Orange) and Wilco Live (Blue), drawing from soundboard recordings of tours from 2012 to 2024 to highlight their enduring stage presence. Drummer Ken Coomer and multi-instrumentalist Max Johnston departed early on, with Bach leaving in 2005; Jeff Tweedy's son Spencer Tweedy joined as a multi-instrumentalist in 2022, adding a familial dimension to the lineup alongside core members Stirratt and Cline.

Solo work and collaborations

In 2014, Jeff Tweedy formed the family band Tweedy with his wife Susan Tweedy on bass and vocals, and his son Spencer Tweedy on drums, releasing their debut double album Sukierae on September 23 via dBpm Records and Anti- Records. The album blends folk and rock elements across 20 original songs, recorded at The Loft in Chicago, and marked Tweedy's first major non-Wilco project emphasizing familial collaboration. Tweedy's solo career gained momentum with Warm, his second studio album of entirely new material, released on November 30, 2018, via dBpm Records. Self-produced and recorded at The Loft, it features 11 introspective tracks exploring personal themes through acoustic arrangements. This was followed by Warmer in 2019, a companion vinyl release limited to the album's original songs, excluding covers from Warm, and made available beyond its initial exclusivity. During the , Tweedy released Love Is the King on October 23, 2020, via dBpm Records, an acoustic album recorded at The Loft with contributions from his sons Spencer and Sammy Tweedy on bass and guitar. The 11-track set reflects isolation and familial bonds through gentle, reassuring folk compositions. Tweedy's fifth solo album, the triple-disc Twilight Override, arrived on September 26, 2025, via dBpm Records, self-produced at The Loft with Chicago-based collaborators including James Elkington, Sima Cunningham, Macie Stewart, and Liam Kazar. Spanning 30 songs, it delves into themes of joy, addiction recovery, and wonder amid personal and societal challenges. The release supports a fall tour, with highlights including sold-out performances at venues like The Salt Shed in Chicago on November 1 and the Saenger Theater in Hattiesburg on November 18. Beyond solo efforts, Tweedy participated in key collaborations, including the alt-country supergroup during the 1990s and 2000s, contributing vocals and guitar to albums like Down by the Old Mainstream (1996) and (1998). He also co-formed the trio with drummer and producer Jim O'Rourke, releasing their self-titled debut album in 2003 via Drag City. Tweedy has taken on production roles for other artists, including helming ' gospel-soul album (2010) on Anti- Records, where he also co-wrote several tracks. For , he co-produced and co-wrote two songs on her 2019 compilation Begin Again via , recorded at The Loft.

Musical style and influences

Songwriting and musical style

Jeff Tweedy's songwriting has evolved significantly over his career, transitioning from the narrative-driven alt-country style of his era to more abstract and introspective poetry in . In , his lyrics often featured straightforward storytelling rooted in working-class experiences, while with , particularly on albums like Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, they became fragmented and evocative, exploring themes of loss and redemption through surreal and emotional . This shift reflects a move from concrete regional tales to broader, psychological explorations that prioritize mood over linear plots. Tweedy's songwriting process emphasizes routine and simplicity, often beginning with melodies on before layering in , and it varies between collaborative band efforts and more personal solo endeavors. In band settings like , he thrives on input from collaborators to refine ideas, but his solo work allows for greater introspection and control, starting from a single phrase or title in a notebook to build organically without overanalysis. He advocates for daily practice, even in short bursts of five minutes, to foster creativity through discipline rather than waiting for inspiration, viewing the act as a way to access subconscious truths. Musically, Tweedy's style is marked by eclectic instrumentation that blends pedal steel and folk elements with electronic textures and influences, creating dynamic structures that shift from hushed verses to explosive choruses. This is evident in works like , where quiet acoustic passages give way to noisy, improvisational builds, and continues in recent solo efforts such as Twilight Override, incorporating interlocking vocal harmonies and bursts of frenetic guitar energy alongside traditional Midwest folk roots. Recurring motifs in Tweedy's lyrics include recovery, dynamics, and the rhythms of American Midwest life, balanced with wonder amid darkness. Songs often weave personal struggles with redemption through perseverance, as seen in Warm's reflections on moving forward after hardship, while evoking the quiet resilience of Midwestern existence without overt regionalism. Critics have praised Tweedy's songwriting for its emotional depth and avoidance of clichés, highlighting how his vulnerable, frailty-revealing approach fosters genuine connections, with carrying much of the affective weight to convey complex feelings succinctly. His ability to condense profound emotions into accessible yet poetic forms has been lauded as a hallmark of his enduring impact.

Influences

Jeff Tweedy's early exposure to punk and new wave came through records owned by his older sisters, who introduced him to bands like Blondie, whose album (1978) sparked his interest in music during a family trip when he was around 10 years old. This led to broader punk influences, including The Clash's (1979) and the Minutemen's What Makes a Man Start Fires? (1983), which emphasized raw energy, precision, and eclectic tastes that liberated him from rigid genre expectations and shaped his appreciation for DIY ethos. Bands like The Replacements and further fueled this, with Tweedy later stating that "everything we do is based on The Replacements" during a 1997 performance where covered their song "Color Me Impressed," highlighting their impact on his raw, unpolished rock approach. In developing alt-country sounds, Tweedy drew from pioneers such as , , and , whose blend of country, folk, and rock informed Uncle Tupelo's foundational style on albums like No Depression (1990). Parsons' "cosmic American music" concept, merging traditional country with psychedelic elements, resonated deeply, as seen in Uncle Tupelo's covers and original songs echoing Williams' introspective storytelling and The Byrds' jangly harmonies. Power pop and indie rock influences were prominent through and frontman , whom Tweedy has cited as a major idol for melodic complexity and emotional depth; described as "Jeff Tweedy's biggest influence," evident in Wilco's intricate arrangements inspired by albums like #1 Record (1972). Broader rock inspirations include , whose universal songcraft and experimental sessions taught him to embrace imperfection in creativity, and , admired for introspective lyricism and approachable demeanor during their 2008 tour collaboration. Later exposures introduced elements, connecting through soulful improvisation in Stax/Volt records that linked punk's liberation to structured yet emotive playing. The Midwest regional scene profoundly shaped Tweedy, growing up near in , where local punk and college radio in the exposed him to diverse acts via stations like those at Belleville Area College and . Moving to amplified this through its vibrant indie ecosystem, blending ' raw energy with broader discoveries that informed his genre-blending ethos.

Selected discography

With Uncle Tupelo

Jeff Tweedy's contributions to 's discography spanned the band's four studio albums, where he served as co-founder, primary bassist, backing and lead vocalist, and co-songwriter alongside on many tracks. No Depression (1990)
The band's debut , released on June 21, 1990, by Rockville Records, features 12 tracks blending punk energy with and folk elements. Tweedy co-wrote several songs with Farrar, including "Graveyard Shift" and "That Year," and provided bass and vocals throughout, contributing to the album's raw, roots-oriented sound that helped pioneer . Still Feel Gone (1991)
Uncle Tupelo's second album, released in September 1991 on Rockville Records, contains 10 tracks that emphasize a punk-country hybrid style with gritty, high-energy arrangements. Tweedy co-wrote and sang lead on tracks like "Gun" and "Still Be Around," playing bass and adding harmonies that highlighted his emerging songwriting voice amid the band's twangy, aggressive aesthetic. March 16–20, 1992 (1992)
This acoustic-focused album, recorded live to tape over four days in March 1992 and released on August 3, 1992, by Rockville Records, includes 11 tracks with a more polished, folk-leaning production overseen by R.E.M.'s . Tweedy contributed bass, guitar, , and vocals, co-arranging material and singing on songs like "Wipe the Clock," which showcased the band's stripped-down exploration of traditional American music forms. Anodyne (1993)
The band's final album, released on October 5, 1993, by , comprises 13 tracks shifting toward a rock-leaning sound with fuller instrumentation. Tweedy took a more prominent role, writing and singing lead on tracks like "Acuff-Rose," "The Long Cut," "No More ," "We've Been Had," and "I Wanna Be Your Dog," marking a significant evolution in his contributions before the band's dissolution.

With Wilco

Jeff Tweedy has served as the primary songwriter and lead vocalist for all of 's studio albums, shaping the band's evolution from alt-country roots to experimental . His often explore themes of personal , relationships, and existential uncertainty, delivered through his distinctive voice, while his compositions drive the band's sonic diversity. Wilco's debut album A.M. (1995) includes 13 tracks, with Tweedy credited as the writer on the majority, including co-writes that carried over from his collaborations, such as "Pick Up the Change" with . Being There (1996), a spanning 19 tracks, highlights Tweedy's songwriting with hits like "," which became a live staple and exemplified his raw emotional delivery. On (1999), Tweedy penned all 15 tracks, infusing lush, orchestral production that amplified his melodic hooks and vocal harmonies. Tweedy's experimental leanings peaked on (2002), where he wrote all 11 tracks, incorporating noise elements and abstract structures while maintaining his signature vocal intimacy. A Ghost Is Born (2004) features 13 tracks composed by Tweedy, earning a Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album and showcasing his guitar-driven narratives. Shifting to a more acoustic orientation, (2007) contains 10 Tweedy-penned songs, emphasizing and his warm, confessional singing style. Wilco (The Album) (2009) comprises 11 tracks written by Tweedy, blending pop accessibility with his wry lyrical observations. On (2011), Tweedy authored all 13 tracks, exploring psychedelic and folk influences through his versatile vocals. Star Wars (2015) includes 11 songs by Tweedy, released initially as a free digital download to fans via the band's website. Schmilco (2016), a lo-fi counterpart to Star Wars, features 10 tracks from Tweedy, prioritizing stripped-down arrangements and his understated delivery. Tweedy wrote the 11 tracks for (2019), delving into societal commentary with subtle orchestration and his emotive phrasing. The Cruel Country (2022) spans 20 songs composed by Tweedy, reflecting on through expansive, rootsy soundscapes voiced in his characteristic . In addition to studio work, Tweedy's live anchor 's concerts, as captured on recent releases like Wilco Live (Orange) (2025), a 24-track compilation of soundboard recordings from 2012 to 2024 emphasizing his improvisational vocals, and Wilco Live (Blue) (2025), with 25 tracks focusing on deeper catalog selections and his dynamic stage presence.

Solo albums

Jeff Tweedy's solo albums represent his individual songwriting and recording efforts outside of Wilco and collaborative projects, often exploring personal and introspective themes through a mix of rock, folk, and acoustic styles. His debut solo studio album, Together at Last, was released on June 23, 2017, by dBpm Records. It features 11 acoustic re-recordings of songs from his catalog and other projects, performed solo at The Loft in , produced by Tweedy and Tom Schick. His second solo studio album, Warm, was released on November 30, 2018, by dBpm Records. It features 11 original tracks, including "Bombs Above," "Some Birds," and "I Know What It's Like," produced by Tweedy and Tom Schick at The Loft in Chicago. The album was issued in multiple formats, including CD, vinyl, and digital, with liner notes by author George Saunders. Following quickly, Warmer arrived on April 13, 2019, initially as a limited-edition vinyl exclusive for through dBpm Records, with a wider digital release on July 12, 2019. This 11-track collection of originals, such as "," "Family Ghost," and "Laminated Cat," was also produced by Tweedy and Schick at The Loft and mastered for vinyl by . It emphasizes raw, home-recorded aesthetics and was later bundled with Warm in various physical editions. Love Is the King, Tweedy's fourth solo album, was released on October 23, 2020, via dBpm Records, recorded during COVID-19 lockdown at The Loft. The acoustic-focused set includes 11 tracks like the title song, "Opaline," and "Bad Day Lately," with contributions from family members including sons Spencer and Sammy Tweedy on select songs. It was distributed in digital, CD, and vinyl formats, later expanded in a 2021 deluxe edition pairing it with live versions recorded at The Loft. In 2025, Tweedy issued his fifth solo effort, Twilight Override, a expansive triple album released on September 26 by dBpm Records in vinyl, CD, and digital editions. Spanning over 30 original tracks across three LPs—such as "One Tiny Flower," "Forever Never Ends," and "Feel Free"—the project draws from themes of life, recovery, and personal reflection, inspired by long car rides and concert favorites. It features collaborations with musicians including James Elkington and family members, produced at The Loft.

Production credits

Jeff Tweedy has earned recognition for his production work on albums by several artists outside his primary projects, often emphasizing intimate, organic sounds recorded at his Chicago studio, The Loft. His collaborations frequently blend roots, folk, and soul elements, drawing on his experience with Wilco to highlight performers' voices and songcraft. Tweedy produced three albums for gospel and soul legend Mavis Staples, beginning with You Are Not Alone in 2010, where he also contributed songwriting and played multiple instruments, helping revive her career with a mix of covers and originals that peaked at number 25 on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart. He followed with One True Vine in 2013, again handling production, arrangement, and instrumentation to create a soulful, understated sound featuring songs like "Holy Ghost" and a cover of Funkadelic's "Can You Get to That." Their third effort, If All I Was Was Black (2017), marked the first time Tweedy composed an entire album of originals for Staples, addressing social justice themes through tracks like the title song, with production that amplified her powerful delivery. Tweedy served as co-producer on Norah Jones's The Fall (2009), contributing to its eclectic mix of , rock, and folk influences across 14 tracks recorded during Jones's tour schedule. He later co-produced her 2020 Pick Me Up Off the Floor, co-writing songs like "I'm Alive" and guiding a reflective, piano-driven aesthetic amid the . Other notable productions include White Denim's Corsicana Lemonade (2013), where Tweedy oversaw sessions at The Loft, refining the Austin band's psychedelic into a more polished yet energetic collection that debuted at number 182 on the 200. He produced Low's The Invisible Way (2013), emphasizing the Duluth trio's dynamics and vocal harmonies on tracks like "Holy Ghost," resulting in their highest-charting at number 97 on the 200. Additionally, Tweedy produced Richard Thompson's Still (2015), a guitar-focused folk-rock set that showcased the veteran's intricate playing with minimalistic arrangements, earning praise for its emotional depth.
ArtistAlbumYearRole
2010Producer, songwriter, musician
One True Vine2013Producer, arranger, musician
If All I Was Was Black2017Producer, songwriter
The Fall2009Co-producer
White DenimCorsicana Lemonade2013Producer
LowThe Invisible Way2013Producer
Richard ThompsonStill2015Producer

Publications

Memoirs

In 2018, Jeff Tweedy published his memoir Let's Go (So We Can Get Back): A Memoir of Recording and Discording with , Etc., released by Dutton on November 13. The book traces his career trajectory from his formative years in , through the formation of and the evolution of , while interweaving personal accounts of addiction struggles and family life. Tweedy recounts early musical influences, band dynamics, and pivotal moments like the band's lineup changes and creative tensions, offering insights into the recording processes behind key albums. The narrative unfolds chronologically, blending straightforward storytelling with self-deprecating humor and reflective asides on the music industry's demands, such as the pressures of touring and interpersonal conflicts within bands. Tweedy addresses his battles with , including opiate dependency stemming from chronic migraines, and its impact on his relationships, including his to Susie Miller and experiences with her illness. He employs a dry, understated wit—describing his youthful singing voice as a "pubescent warble" and himself as a "doom-dabbling, fifty-year-old, borderline misanthrope [and] nap enthusiast"—to humanize the darker themes of vulnerability and recovery. The memoir received widespread acclaim for its candid exploration of the creative process and personal resilience, becoming a New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction bestseller and earning spots on lists like Rolling Stone's Best Music Books of 2018. Critics praised its honest portrayal of artistic growth amid adversity, with calling it an "intensely charming" and "wildly entertaining" work that illuminates Tweedy's "singular genius." highlighted its modest vulnerability, noting how Tweedy gradually opens up about his obsessions and setbacks without sensationalism.

Other books

In 2020, Jeff Tweedy published How to Write One Song through Penguin Press, a practical guide that distills the songwriting process into an approachable framework drawn from his workshops at Chicago's . The book walks readers through the creation of a single song—covering , , and assembly—while incorporating hands-on exercises like and melody sketching to foster creativity and overcome common blocks. Tweedy emphasizes a of embracing imperfection and routine practice, arguing that songwriting thrives on small, consistent efforts rather than waiting for inspiration. The book was praised for its accessibility, making the often-intimidating craft feel inviting for beginners and seasoned writers alike, and became a New York Times bestseller, as noted in reviews highlighting its encouraging tone and real-world applicability. In 2023, Tweedy released World Within a Song: Music That Changed My Life and Life That Changed My Music, also via Penguin Press (Dutton imprint), a collection of essays reflecting on 50 songs that profoundly influenced him, spanning artists from the Beatles to Billie Eilish, including works by Joni Mitchell, Otis Redding, and Dolly Parton. Each entry blends personal anecdotes—termed "rememories"—with explorations of how these tracks intersected with his life experiences, underscoring music's power to store emotions and forge connections. Critics commended the book for its insightful cultural commentary, weaving individual stories with broader observations on music's role in identity and community, and it became a New York Times bestseller.

References

  1. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/jeff-tweedy-mn0000232891
  2. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/wilco-not-just-a-country-rock-band-241045/2/
  3. https://www.nytimes.com/2004/06/13/books/alt-country-roads.html
  4. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2018/nov/30/wilco-jeff-tweedy-addiction-obsession-politics
  5. https://www.npr.org/2018/11/13/667336084/in-lets-go-wilco-frontman-jeff-tweedy-details-his-struggles-and-joys
  6. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/wilcos-jeff-tweedy-talks-memoir-addiction-uncle-tupelo-trump-761726/
  7. https://www.grammy.com/artists/wilco/10727
  8. https://www.grammy.com/artists/jeff-tweedy/6954
  9. https://www.instagram.com/jefftweedy/?hl=en
  10. https://grammy.com/news/wilco-cruel-country-jeff-tweedy-interview-new-album
  11. https://wilcoworld.net/
  12. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/jeff-tweedy-warm/
  13. https://pitchfork.com/news/wilcos-jeff-tweedy-announces-new-album-love-is-the-king-shares-new-songs-listen/
  14. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/jeff-tweedy-triple-album-twilight-override-1236022414/
  15. https://pitchfork.com/news/39047-mavis-staples-tells-all-about-her-new-album-with-wilcos-jeff-tweedy/
  16. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/02/books/review/jeff-tweedy-interview.html
  17. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/02/podcasts/transcript-ezra-klein-interviews-jeff-tweedy.html
  18. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/02/opinion/sunday/abba-dancing-queen-pop-music.html
  19. https://www.tvinsider.com/people/jeff-tweedy/
  20. https://www.nndb.com/people/893/000043764/
  21. https://www.illinoisauthors.org/php/getSpecificAuthor.php?uid=8423
  22. https://www.stlpr.org/show/st-louis-on-the-air/2019-01-07/belleville-native-jeff-tweedy-talks-childhood-uncle-tupelo-and-wilco
  23. https://top40-charts.com/artist.php?aid=19996
  24. https://forward.com/culture/416211/the-secret-jewish-history-of-wilco-frontman-jeff-tweedy/
  25. https://www.whosdatedwho.com/dating/jeff-tweedy-and-sue-miller
  26. https://jefftweedy.substack.com/p/29
  27. https://thecreativeindependent.com/people/spencer-tweedy-on-doing-your-own-thing/
  28. https://jefftweedy.substack.com/p/sammy
  29. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/jeff-tweedys-family-affair-51913/
  30. https://www.npr.org/2014/09/25/349038144/jeff-and-spencer-tweedy-on-making-songs-together
  31. https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/drugs-anxiety-and-sobriety-define-jeff-tweedy-as-much-as-his-music
  32. https://www.spin.com/2013/02/jeff-tweedy-drug-addiction-rehab-sammy-hagar-jeff-garlin-podcast/
  33. https://www.npr.org/sections/allsongs/2018/11/27/669963866/jeff-tweedy-on-anxiety-addiction-and-a-lifetime-making-art
  34. https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/october-2025/best-of-fall/jeff-tweedy-just-wants-to-let-his-light-shine/
  35. https://www.fretboardjournal.com/features/inside-wilcos-loft/
  36. https://tapeop.com/interviews/132/jeff-tweedy
  37. https://www.factorybelt.net/history.htm
  38. https://www.ilikeillinois.com/home/did-you-know/322-did-you-know-grammy-award-winning-singer-songwriter-and-wilco-founder-jeff-tweedy-was-born-in-illinois
  39. https://www.stlmag.com/Wilcos-Jeff-Tweedy-Finds-Redemption-in-Music/
  40. https://aquariumdrunkard.com/2008/01/19/before-uncle-tupelo-the-primitives-1985/
  41. https://www.npr.org/2012/04/23/141664938/world-cafe-looks-back-uncle-tupelos-family-tree
  42. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/uncle-tupelos-anodyne-at-25-oral-history-wilco-733327/
  43. https://nodepression.org/cant-look-away-musicians-writers-and-more-reflect-on-30-years-of-uncle-tupelos-no-depression/
  44. https://www.npr.org/sections/world-cafe/2007/07/13/11116795/wilco-uncompromising-and-iconic
  45. https://magnetmagazine.com/2002/06/01/wilco-heroes-and-villains/
  46. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/a-m-187587/
  47. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/wilco-ambeing-there/
  48. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/wilco-summerteeth-deluxe-edition/
  49. https://www.grammy.com/news/wilco-a-ghost-is-born-jeff-tweedy-anniversary-track-by-track
  50. https://www.allaboutjazz.com/sky-blue-sky-wilco-nonesuch-records-review-by-doug-collette
  51. https://www.nonesuch.com/albums/wilco-album
  52. https://wilcohq.bandcamp.com/album/cruel-country
  53. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/wilco-a-ghost-is-born-box-set-best-songs-1235259153/
  54. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/jeff-tweedy-solo-album-sukierae-tour-wilco-6106544/
  55. https://www.anti.com/releases/sukierae/
  56. https://wilcoworld.net/music/warm/
  57. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/jeff-tweedy-warmer/
  58. https://wilcostore.com/products/warmer-vinyl-lp
  59. https://variety.com/2020/music/news/jeff-tweedy-wilco-love-is-the-king-1234812811/
  60. https://www.thecurrent.org/feature/2020/11/16/album-of-the-week-jeff-tweedy-love-is-the-king
  61. https://www.sonymusic.ca/press_release/je%25EF%25AC%2580-tweedy-releases-triple-album-twilight-override-today-via-dbpm-records
  62. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/09/24/how-jeff-tweedys-musical-family-brought-his-new-triple-album-to-life/
  63. https://www.npr.org/2025/09/22/nx-s1-5550269/why-jeff-tweedy-still-finds-joy-in-troubled-times
  64. https://www.spin.com/2025/09/jeff-tweedy-goes-long-with-the-warm-and-generous-twilight-override/
  65. https://www.choosechicago.com/event/jeff-tweedy-twilight-override-2025-tour/
  66. https://downtownhattiesburg.com/event/jeff-tweedy-twilight-override-tour/
  67. https://jambands.com/news/2025/09/05/supergroup-golden-smog-announce-2025-concerts-first-shows-with-jeff-tweedy-since-2022/
  68. https://americansongwriter.com/5-songs-you-didnt-know-jeff-tweedy-wrote-outside-of-wilco-and-uncle-tupelo/
  69. https://www.treblezine.com/loose-fur-loose-fur/
  70. https://www.npr.org/2010/09/05/129578095/first-listen-mavis-staples-you-are-not-alone
  71. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/norah-jones-new-album-jeff-tweedy-966645/
  72. https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/norah-jones-begin-again-album/
  73. https://www.hearingthings.co/jeff-tweedy-on-the-lyrics-that-changed-his-life/
  74. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/jeff-tweedy-songwriting-book-excerpt-1070889/
  75. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2020/nov/25/jeff-tweedy-on-songwriting-the-hardest-part-is-getting-started
  76. https://www.wbez.org/music/2025/09/23/jeff-tweedy-new-album-twilight-override-wilco
  77. https://www.kcrw.com/shows/morning-becomes-eclectic/stories/jeff-tweedy
  78. https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/09/jeff-tweedys-subconscious-songwriting/380290/
  79. https://apnews.com/article/jeff-tweedy-new-book-290869604a6bd288a858fdc66e3f9a9a
  80. https://gloriousnoise.com/2004/records_that_changed_jeff_twee
  81. https://consequence.net/2013/09/jeff-tweedy-releases-new-solo-single-benefiting-the-replacements-slim-dunlap/
  82. https://tidal.com/magazine/article/cosmic-american-music-and-the-transcendent-brotherhood-of-man-best-of-2016/1-33808
  83. https://riffsandrhymes.com/2019/11/10/gram-legacy/
  84. https://www.npr.org/sections/allsongs/2011/06/09/137078173/youve-never-heard-big-stars-1-record
  85. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/11/jeff-tweedy-favorite-songs-beatles/675919/
  86. https://pitchfork.com/features/5-10-15-20/the-music-that-made-wilcos-jeff-tweedy/
  87. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/uncle-tupelo-mn0000222927
  88. https://genius.com/albums/Uncle-tupelo/No-depression
  89. https://www.discogs.com/master/171683-Uncle-Tupelo-No-Depression
  90. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/18940-uncle-tupelo-no-depression-legacy-edition/
  91. https://genius.com/albums/Uncle-tupelo/Still-feel-gone
  92. https://www.discogs.com/master/171689-Uncle-Tupelo-Still-Feel-Gone
  93. https://www.allmusic.com/album/still-feel-gone-mw0000648901
  94. https://www.discogs.com/master/60565-Uncle-Tupelo-March-16-20-1992
  95. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/8344-no-depression-still-feel-gone-and-march-16-20-1992/
  96. https://genius.com/albums/Uncle-tupelo/Anodyne
  97. https://www.allmusic.com/album/anodyne-mw0000118246
  98. https://www.discogs.com/master/87367-Uncle-Tupelo-Anodyne
  99. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/wilco-mn0000254215
  100. https://www.discogs.com/master/81280-Wilco-AM
  101. https://www.allmusic.com/album/being-there-mw0000613155
  102. https://wilcoworld.net/new-album-star-wars-available-now/
  103. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/jeff-tweedy-together-at-last/
  104. https://wilcostore.com/products/together-at-last-cd
  105. https://jefftweedy.bandcamp.com/album/warm
  106. https://www.discogs.com/release/12861417-Jeff-Tweedy-Warm
  107. https://wilcostore.com/products/warm-vinyl-lp
  108. https://www.discogs.com/release/13484947-Jeff-Tweedy-Warmer
  109. https://jefftweedy.bandcamp.com/album/warmer
  110. https://us.amazon.com/Warm-warmer-JEFF-TWEEDY/dp/B07TNVXKDJ
  111. https://jefftweedy.bandcamp.com/album/love-is-the-king
  112. https://www.discogs.com/master/1888581-Jeff-Tweedy-Love-Is-The-King
  113. https://wilcostore.com/products/love-is-the-king-live-is-the-king-vinyl-2xlp
  114. https://jefftweedy.bandcamp.com/album/twilight-override
  115. https://wilcostore.com/products/twilight-override-3xcd
  116. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/jeff-tweedy-triple-album-track-list-tour-dates-1235386158/
  117. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2010/jun/08/jeff-tweedy-mavis-staples
  118. https://pitchfork.com/news/50220-mavis-staples-announces-new-jeff-tweedy-produced-album-one-true-vine/
  119. https://mavisstaples.com/news-updates/if-all-i-was-was-black
  120. https://www.uncut.co.uk/news/jeff-tweedy-producing-white-denim-s-new-album-24115/
  121. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/17781-low-the-invisible-way/
  122. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2015/jun/25/richard-thompson-still-review-jeff-tweedy
  123. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/541712/lets-go-so-we-can-get-back-by-jeff-tweedy/
  124. https://www.theguardian.com/books/2018/dec/05/lets-go-so-we-can-get-back-by-jeff-tweedy-review
  125. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/jeff-tweedy-book-excerpt-addiction-anxiety-a-ghost-is-born-752428/
  126. https://www.grimeys.com/books/jeff-tweedy-lets-go
  127. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2005629/jeff-tweedy/
  128. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/world-within-a-song-jeff-tweedy/1143043788
  129. https://www.bookpage.com/reviews/world-within-a-song-jeff-tweedy-book-review/
  130. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/714352/world-within-a-song-by-jeff-tweedy/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.