BY SUZY STUMP for WEEKLY VOLCANO 5/23/25 |
When Sean Curkendall was 5 years old and fresh off of his first stage performance he told his father that this was his destiny. He had been making music from the tender age of two years old. “The first time I got off stage, I told my dad, ‘This is what I’m going to do for the rest of my life,’” he says. Now a full-time working musician, he supplements with odd jobs when needed but remains focused on his craft. Born at St. Joseph Hospital and raised in Tacoma, he graduated from Tacoma School of the Arts in 2008 before traveling the world and returning to the city that shaped him.
This weekend, he’ll bring his blend of blues, classic rock, and funk to Water from Wine downtown Tacoma, followed by a set at Mike’s Beach Resort located in Lilliwaup, Washington, on the western shore of Hood Canal. His shows are less about a perfect setlist and more about creating an experience. Expect a mix of covers and originals, with nods to Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Wonder, Fleetwood Mac, and Tom Petty—all part of a vibe that’s equal parts nostalgia and groovy fun energy.
“I try to include the audience and have fun. Performing is different than just playing music,” he says. His songwriting process usually starts with a chord progression and grows from there, pulling inspiration from his life and surroundings. One original, “Didn’t Mean It,” explores the emotional aftermath of a breakup. In addition to his solo work, Curkendall leads a band called Higher Soul and collaborates with a rotating cast of musicians.
Over the years, he’s worked with artists including Michael Winslow (of Police Academy and Spaceballs), Bryson Foster, Sean the Shaman, and The Pungent Sound. His music has aired on the radio and appeared on small TV stations in Oregon, but he dreams of one day hearing his songs featured in a Netflix series or movie soundtrack.
We think he has a real shot at that. In the meantime, you can stream his catalog at seancurkendallmusic.com or find older releases on SoundCloud and ReverbNation. Touring, he admits, has its ups and downs. “There are always delays and equipment issues, and it can be frustrating,” he says. “But I remind myself I’ve survived every worst day, and this is just another obstacle. That’s why I tattooed ‘the show must go on’ on my wrist.”
When asked what success looks like, Curkendall doesn’t hesitate. “Success is being able to pay your bills, have fun, and make music for amazing people. That’s it. It’s not about being rich. I know people with tons of money who aren’t happy. To me, success is being happy.” With shows lined up and gratitude in his heart, he says he feels truly blessed. “Tacoma is home. I’m honored to be featured by the Weekly Volcano, and I’m just thankful I get to keep doing this.”
