Media
Jeni Grouws
Journey into Music & Early Career
(Full bio at bottom)
Jeni Grouws is a talented singer-songwriter and musician, celebrated for her work as both a solo artist and co-founder of the roots rock group Avey Grouws Band. What began as a personal journey of songwriting for therapy evolved into a flourishing career, leading to the 2008 release of her solo EP Scenic Route
Achievements
Over the years, Jeni has made significant strides in the music world, with her performing and writing in Avey Grouws Band earning major accolades, including two top ten Billboard Blues charting albums—The Devil May Care (#10) and Tell Tale Heart (#7). The band has also claimed victory as two-time winners of the Iowa Blues Challenge and two-time semifinalists at the International Blues Challenge. Sharing stages with legendary artists like Keb’ Mo’, Buddy Guy, Beth Hart, Walter Trout, and Shemekia Copeland, Avey Grouws Band has quickly become a dynamic force in the roots rock and blues scenes.
Songwriting Recognition & Residency
Jeni’s songwriting has also gained widespread recognition, winning top honors in the 2020 Unsigned Only Songwriting Competition and the 2021 International Songwriting Competition. Throughout her career, she has balanced a busy touring schedule with a range of songwriting projects and in September 2024 Jeni relocated to Omaha when she was awarded a songwriting residency with The Music House through the Catalyst Foundation, lead by Jeff Davis and Vanessa Marie, cofounder of Playing with Fire in Omaha. Given the great success of her time at The Music House, the residency offer was extended from the original end date of May 2025 until January 2026 and has been extended until the end of December 2026.
Pushing Boundaries & Exciting Plans Ahead
Never one to settle, Jeni Grouws is constantly pushing her boundaries with new sounds, new songs and new styles. As she continues to tour, she’s also focused on an exciting year ahead, as she gets set to release her debut solo album.
Known for her powerful mix of heartfelt lyrics, unforgettable melodies, captivating voice and a rare ability to connect with audiences, Jeni Grouws is making her mark. As one fan famously puts it, “Jeni Grouws is a damn delight!”
Make Your Way (early version) - Jeni Grouws - Pin Drop Sessions, Moline, IL 2025
Old Dive Bar by Jeni Grouws
Jewell on Capitol, Omaha, NE May 2025
Waiting by Jeni Grouws
Monday Night Live, xBK, Des Moines, IA, April 2025
Jeni Grouws is a magnetic American roots musician known for her soul-deep vocals, powerful songwriting, and driving roots sound. With her chill-inducing voice and rare connection with audiences, she truly commands a room. Grouws is grit, groove and emotional truth. Jeni Grouws is stepping into an exciting new solo chapter, with her debut album slated for release in 2026. Recorded at Purple House in Nashville with Grammy-winning producer Casey Wasner (Keb’ Mo’, TajMo, Robben Ford), the album brings together Grouws, Wasner, Brian Allen, Mike Hicks, Johnny Duke and a list of exciting special guests, including Drew Smithers of the Marcus King Band.
As co-founder of the Billboard-charting Avey Grouws Band and now a solo artist, Grouws gets rave reviews. Rock and Blues Muse noted, “It’s been a while since a vocalist gave me the chills. Grouws digs deep and you can’t turn away. She’s a belter with deep rooted soul.” Goldmine wrote, “Jeni Grouws is a remarkably demonstrative vocalist, fully capable of delivering sturdy rockers, blustery blues, or... a tender heartfelt ballad." And Fred Robertson said, “Jeni Grouws is simply an incredible singer and songwriter! Her new songs were immediately relatable, had genuine emotional punch, and made everyone feel like life is still beautiful in these troubled times.”
Powerful vocals, evocative songwriting, and a refreshing generosity on stage help Jeni Grouws shine as a compelling new voice in American roots music.
The Soulful Power of Jeni Grouws
