Paul McDonald

Paul McDonald is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter and former *American Idol* Season 10 finalist known for his soulful, raspy vocals and rootsy Americana sound. After gaining national attention on the show, he co-founded the indie-folk band The Grand Magnolias and later formed the duo The High Road with actress Nikki Reed, blending folk-rock with heartfelt storytelling. As a solo artist, his work leans into warm, introspective melodies and emotionally charged lyrics, with releases like *Modern Hearts* (2018) showcasing his knack for blending vintage rock vibes with modern indie sensibilities. Tracks like "Dark Side," "Rosemarie," and "Once You Were Mine" highlight his ability to weave personal narratives into melodic, groove-driven tunes, while holiday releases like "Maybe This Christmas" add a cozy, nostalgic flair to his catalog. Paul continues to tour and collaborate within Nashville’s eclectic music scene, maintaining a down-to-earth presence that resonates with fans of organic, lyric-forward Americana.

Genres

Alternative

Folk

Indie Rock

Singer-songwriter

Pop Rock

Country

Americana

Bluegrass

Related Artists

John Mayer

Ben Rector

Ed Sheeran

Chris Stapleton

The Lumineers

Joshua Radin

James Bay

Jason Mraz

Gavin DeGraw

Ryan Adams

Nathaniel Rateliff

Mat Kearney

Latest Release

Rosemarie

Paul McDonald

Single - Released June 13, 2025