Bending time, space, and genre, Pretend Friend will transport you to another dimension with quick-pickin’ bluegrass, spellbinding harmonies, psychedelic jams, and award-winning songwriting. Pretend Friend is an Americana jam band that defies convention and redefines the bluegrass genre with captivating live performances.

Led by Grant Boesen, a mesmerizing countertenor and songwriter, Pretend Friend features some of the most talented musicians in the business. Kansas champion mandolinist, Evan Ogborn, renown bassist, Brody Wellman, and veteran banjoist, Garrett Briggeman, bring substantial style and depth of character to Pretend Friend. With compelling songwriting at the core of their music, Pretend Friend weaves together intricate melodies and rich harmonies, creating a tapestry of sound that is both evocative and unforgettable. Improvisational live jamming sets Pretend Friend apart; no two shows are ever the same. Exceptional musicianship, fearless creativity, and boundless energy carry Pretend Friend across musical dimensions.

Pretend Friend performs original and traditional Americana and bluegrass music. Pretend Friend offers live performances, from full-production festival sets to listening room concerts.

Pretend Friend’s flat-rate performance fee ranges from $1,400-2,000. Pretend Friend also works with promoters and venues to arrange agreements based on ticket sales. Any offer will be considered in accordance with the band’s availability and touring schedule. Pretend Friend’s fees are subject to change based on the band lineup, travel costs, time commitment, seasonal demand, and the band’s schedule.

Pretend Friend’s members are professional touring musicians who are able to provide workshops or artist talks on the following subjects: songwriting, singing, guitar, mandolin, banjo, upright bass, and band working dynamics. Educational activities are subject to the requested member’s availability.

Additional activities are subject to Pretend Friend’s schedule and availability, and fees will be quoted in accordance with involved travel, members involved in additional activities, and any other relevant circumstantial details.

Quoted based on requested time.

Pretend Friend can attend and participate in community “picks” or campfire-style jam circles, playing traditional bluegrass or old time fiddle tunes. Pretend Friend became a bluegrass band in the campgrounds of the Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, KS, and we believe this is the best ways to learn, practice, and enjoy traditional music for all ages.