Denison Witmer is an American singer-songwriter who has been crafting introspective folk music for over two decades. 

Born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, he began his journey in recorded music at the age of 19 with his first album, My Luck, My Love – recorded originally as a high school English project and released on 250 cassettes. His official debut album, Safe Away, followed in 1998, setting the foundation for a prolific career. Over the years, Witmer has released a series of acclaimed albums, including Of Joy and Sorrow (2001), Philadelphia Songs (2002), and Are You a Dreamer? (2005), with the latter, produced by Don Peris and featuring Sufjan Stevens, earning critical praise from outlets such as Pitchfork and Entertainment Weekly. 

Witmer’s discography continued to expand with Carry the Weight in 2008, followed by his first release on Sufjan Stevens’ Asthmatic Kitty Records, The Ones Who Wait (2012). His subsequent albums, the self-titled Denison Witmer (2013) and American Foursquare (2020), also released on Asthmatic Kitty, continued to showcase his evolving artistry.

Throughout his career, Witmer has been more than just a musician. A self-described “jack of all trades,” he has balanced his musical pursuits with other creative endeavors. What began as a woodworking hobby has blossomed into a full carpentry business, with Witmer building everything from kitchens to custom furniture for recording studios. Witmer’s enduring appeal lies in his unique blend of musical talent and practical skills, influenced by his Mennonite upbringing and “utilitarian work ethic.” His ability to weave personal experiences – from small-town roots to fatherhood – into universally resonant songs cements his place as a distinctive, thoughtful, and evolving voice in the indie folk world.

Witmer’s latest album, Anything At All, is set for release on Asthmatic Kitty Records in February 2025 and showcases his enduring collaboration with Sufjan Stevens, who produced the record. It promises a fresh take on Witmer’s signature sound, blending his introspective songwriting with Stevens’ distinctive production style.