Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors

Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors bring a joyful explosion of rhythm, rock, and roots music to the stage. Led by Jim Donovan – the former drummer and co-founder of Pittsburgh’s own Rusted Root – this seven-piece ensemble is known for its percussion-driven sound and uplifting, danceable songs. Their style is “a blend of rhythm-heavy roots rock, with a strong dose of big barreling drums”, combining bluesy Led Zeppelin-esque guitar riffs, Santana-style world percussion, and the folk-rock exuberance of bands like The Avett Brothers.

At a Sun King Warriors show, you can expect to dance, sweat and have the time of your life. Donovan, who helped write Rusted Root’s biggest hit “Send Me On My Way”, now fronts the band on lead vocals and guitar while still infusing the music with infectious drum rhythms. The Warriors’ songs – many of which carry messages of unity and positivity – have landed on the Billboard Americana charts and earned praise for channeling “unabashed enthusiasm” into every performance. They’ve become festival favorites across the Mid-Atlantic, sharing stages with acts like 10,000 Maniacs and, fittingly, Rusted Root itself. Crowds often find themselves singing along to feel-good tracks like “We See Through It” and grooving to extended percussion jams. With big smiles, engaging stage presence, and a barrage of drums and harmonies, Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors create a community vibe at their shows. Be ready for an upbeat, rejuvenating set that blurs the line between rock concert and joyous drum circle.