Craig Winquist is a songwriter from Canton, South Dakota, whose career reflects a deep love for melody and story. Influenced by artists ranging from the Beatles and Eagles to Bob McDill and Jeffrey Steele, Craig has spent decades writing songs that connect across genres. His work has taken him from Nashville, where he lived and wrote for eight years, to stages back home in South Dakota. A highlight of his career was performing at the legendary Bluebird Café, a milestone for any songwriter. Craig has had more than thirty songs recorded by artists worldwide, with some also featured on television. Today, he continues to write and perform while raising his family in South Dakota, balancing his life as a cattle and sheep rancher with his passion for music.

Hometown: Canton, SD

Primary Instrument: Alvarez – “Irregular”

Influences: The Beatles, Eagles, Bob McDill, Jeffrey Steele

Signature Song: American

First Performance: Early years in Alcester, SD; career highlights include playing the Bluebird Café in Nashville

Biggest Musical Achievement: Performing at the Bluebird Café and having 30+ songs recorded worldwide.

Dream Collaboration: Garth Brooks

Favorite Lyric: “I’m a rock at the top of a waterfall, baby, just waitin’ there to move. You’re the current rushing by and after some time you finally turned me loose.”

Fun Fact: Craig and his family raise cattle and sheep in South Dakota.