It’s not easy to make a career out of playing music. Just ask Dan Blakeslee. He’s been doing it for 20 years, gigging relentlessly around New England and the nation, armed with nothing but an acoustic guitar and a truckload of genuine charisma.
Two decades into his career, the accolades are piling up for Blakeslee. The South Berwick native was named 2014 Folk Artist of the Year at the Boston Music Awards in December. In April, he was named Male Performer of the Year at the New England Music Awards.
But Blakeslee hasn’t slowed down to savor the acclaim. And the Somerville, Mass. resident hasn’t forgotten about his local roots. He’ll play a show at Portsmouth Book & Bar on Thursday, May 7.
Blakeslee’s latest album, “Owed to the Tanglin’ Wind,” was recorded with members of The Low Anthem and released in 2014. But he has an extensive catalog to pick from at the show in Portsmouth.
The show begins at 9 p.m. at Book & Bar, located at 40 Pleasant St. There is a $5 cover charge.
Top of page: Dan Blakeslee (photo by Michael Winters)