Riffin' Griffin

What is Riffin’ Griffin?
Riffin' Griffin is a live rock band for kids and families from Minneapolis, MN! They are passionate about cultivating kids' love for music by playing fun, energetic, live shows that bring all of the excitement of a big, arena rock concert, but with kid-friendly lyrics and tons of audience participation.

What is it like to attend a live show?
At a Riffin’ Griffin show, audiences can expect things like dancing, singalongs, stomping and roaring like a dinosaur, clapping on beat, learning about kindness, kids saying their names into a microphone, shouting call and response sections, celebrating awkwardness, naming foods on a stick, beatboxing, being silly, and running around in a circle. Families are encouraged to listen to the songs ahead of time to get ready to rock!

What do they sound like?
Riffin' Griffin songs are inspired by catchy, power-pop bands like Weezer and riff-centered bands like Muse, with the fun, silly, educational lyrical content of Sesame Street. Riffin' Griffin strives to create something that kids and adults can enjoy together.

What have they been doing lately?
Riffin’ Griffin has performed 60+ times over the last few summers at venues like the Wolf Trap Theater in VA, for the Ordway at the Flint Hills Family Festival, Children’s Hospital MN, Sparklefest in Eden Prairie, MPR’s Rock the Cradle, as well as schools, parks, and several dozen libraries. Their hit bath song “Wash Your Body” has been featured on a Spotify Kindie playlist and streamed over 60,000 times.

Who started the band?
The project was founded by Jesse Norell, a musician, songwriter, guitar teacher, father, and advocate from Minneapolis, MN in 2023. Jesse hopes to inspire kids to love music as much as he does and fuel their imaginations and creativity. He loves talking about his daughter who happens to have Down syndrome, and strives to make the world a better place for both of his kids. Jesse has been featured on Good Morning America, WCCO TV News and Fox9 TV news.

Are there different versions of the band?
Riffin’ Griffin has performed as a quartet (two guitars, bass, drums, and a sound system), as a duo and a solo act. Jesse’s 13-year-old son often performs with the band as well. They are available for family and school performances as well as festivals and workshops.

How do we get in touch with them?
Email Jesse at RiffinGriffinMusic@gmail.com or click the link below!