John Gorka

“…the leading singer/songwriter of the New Folk movement.” — Rolling Stone

Few voices in contemporary folk are as instantly recognizable as John Gorka’s. With a rich baritone that carries both gravity and warmth, Gorka has spent more than four decades writing songs that are thoughtful, wry, deeply human, and beautifully crafted.

He first found his footing in the late 1970s at the legendary Pennsylvania coffeehouse Godfrey Daniels, where he lived in the basement, ran sound, and absorbed the influence of visiting folk greats. From there, he stepped into the famed Fast Folk circle in New York City, won the Kerrville New Folk Award in 1984, and soon emerged as one of the defining songwriters of his generation.

Since the release of his debut album I Know in 1987, Gorka has built a remarkable catalog of critically acclaimed recordings. His songs blend intelligence, tenderness, and quiet wit, and have been recorded and performed by artists including Mary Chapin Carpenter, Nanci Griffith, and Mary Black. Over the years, he has appeared on Austin City Limits, Mountain Stage, and stages across North America and Europe, earning a devoted international following.

John’s music moves fluidly between the intimate and the expansive. His lyrics linger. His melodies unfold gently but with purpose. And live, in a listening room like Caffè Lena, every nuance has space to breathe.

Join us for an evening with one of folk music’s most enduring and beloved voices — a songwriter whose work continues to resonate with depth, honesty, and heart.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV.
- Livestream available for $5 — 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists.
- Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.