The Oklahoman

Always a `Groomsman'

- By Kaelan Deese Staff writer kdeese@oklahoman.com

Steven Thorn has been a groomsman nine times. He's never been a groom. But Friday, he's hosting a wedding party as a tribute to his experience­s and for an audience that may share his sentiments — being single in their 20s and still looking for the right match.

Thorn, a songwriter from Norman with a master's in profession­al writing from the University of

Oklahoma, will host the concert, performing songs from his upcoming album, “Groomsman.” The multifacet­ed artist describes his music as something similar to Coldplay, Death Cab for Cutie and James Blunt.

Over the years, he's mastered a wide range of instrument­s such as acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, piano, keyboard, some percussion and vocals.

“I started my focus on music when I was 15, my best friend Joe Cannariato, who was also 15 at the time, saved up his money and gave me a guitar and an amp as a gift, which is still one of the best gifts I have ever received,” Thorn said. “Joe lives in Austin but is helping me in the recording process of my album, which is due to release this fall.”

Thorn's performanc­e and the upcoming record is a coming-of-age story.

“Being a groomsman is hugely rewarding because you don't get asked to be a groomsman unless you mean something to someone. In the last year, I've had friends tell me that they've never been a groomsman or an usher. (I've been an usher three times.) It's humbling; it makes me step back and realize how blessed I am to have these friendship­s,” Thorn said.

The “wedding” will be Friday, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Cornerston­e Methodist Church in Oklahoma City. Formal attire is required, and the doors open at 7 p.m.

After the show, guests are invited to stay and dance at the DJ reception, with gourmet scones and punch provided. Thorn is inviting guests to bring their friends, plusones and family members.

“We're bringing the pageantry, food and camaraderi­e of everything you would see in a wedding,” he said. “I hope people come on out and enjoy the show.”

 ?? [POSTER ART PROVIDED] ?? Norman recording artist Steven Thorn is hosting a wedding-theme concert to celebrate the release of his new album, “Groomsman.”
[POSTER ART PROVIDED] Norman recording artist Steven Thorn is hosting a wedding-theme concert to celebrate the release of his new album, “Groomsman.”
 ?? [POSTER ART PROVIDED] ?? Norman recording artist Steven Thorn is hosting a weddingthe­me concert to celebrate the release of his new album, “Groomsman.”
[POSTER ART PROVIDED] Norman recording artist Steven Thorn is hosting a weddingthe­me concert to celebrate the release of his new album, “Groomsman.”

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