Meet the Band

American Nomad is a D.C.-based Americana band running on R&B/Soul, Folk, and Roots. Three-part horns. Warm, groove-driven rhythm. A troubadour's eye for a story. They blend blues, folk, and soul into something that feels like Bill Withers, James Taylor, and John Prine trading verses — heartfelt, high-energy, and built on a belief in peace and shared humanity.

The band features Hassan El-Tayyab (lead vocals/guitar), Eric Lawry (vocals/drums), Johnny Seikaly (bass), and Marcel Penzes (trombone). Their latest album, Tired of Goodbyes, leans further into that soul and horn-driven sound, building on the emotional depth of their folk-rooted debut, Country Mile, produced by Grammy nominee Laurie Lewis. The band's music has been honored by the Telluride Troubadour, Rocky Mountain Folks Festival, and the International Songwriting Competition.

Frontman Hassan El-Tayyab is also a dedicated peace and human-rights advocate whose lobbying work on Israel-Palestine has been featured in The New York Times and other national outlets. His efforts to advance diplomacy, protect civilians, and expand humanitarian access in conflict zones shape the band’s ethos, giving their music an added layer of purpose—songs that carry not just stories, but a commitment to dignity, justice, and the possibility of collective liberation.