Bio
Riffin' Griffin is a live rock band for kids and families from Minneapolis, MN! They are passionate about cultivating kids' love for music by playing fun, energetic, live shows that bring all of the excitement of a big, arena rock concert, but with kid-friendly lyrics and tons of audience participation.
Riffin' Griffin songs are inspired by catchy, power-pop bands like Weezer and riff-heavy bands like Muse, with the fun, silly, educational lyrical content of Sesame Street. Like a good animated film, Riffin' Griffin strives to create something that kids and adults can enjoy together. By the end of each show, kids can't help but sing, yell, clap and dance along!
Riffin' Griffin was founded by Jesse Norell, a musician, songwriter, guitar teacher, father, and advocate from Minneapolis, MN. Jesse plays solo shows and with a four-piece live band. Jesse hopes to inspire kids to love music as much as he does and fuel their imaginations and creativity.
In 2022 Jesse released a story-driven solo album called "Aorta Borealis," about his daughter (born with Down syndrome and a serious heart defect) who overcame heart surgeries with the help of Children's Hospital, MN. Aorta Borealis was featured on WCCO4 News, Fox9 News, and Good Morning America (see jessenorell.com/video). With each show, the goal is to encourage, increase awareness, and bring positivity to anyone who feels "atypical."
