Colin Meloy

Colin Meloy (born October 5, 1974) is an American musician, singer-songwriter, and author. He is best known as the frontman of the indie folk rock band the Decemberists. Born in Helena, Montana, Meloy attended the University of Oregon before studying creative writing at the University of Montana. During his college years, he was part of the bands Happy Cactus and Tarkio, playing indie, folk, and alternative country music. After leaving Tarkio, Meloy moved to Portland to pursue his music career. In addition to vocals, he plays various instruments like acoustic and electric guitar, bouzouki, harmonica, and percussion.