Minneapolis-based modern folk singer-songwriter Mason Jennings has released "Don't Change," the second single and video to be released in advance of his upcoming 20th studio album, Magnifier, due June 20 on Loosegroove Records. A meditation on staying true to oneself amid life's inevitable shifts, the song reflects upon Jennings' experiences as both a husband and father.
"'Don't Change' is a love song inspired by my wife and three-year-old son," says Jennings. "As a parent of kids ranging in age from their 20s down to three, I am well aware that change is the only real constant in life. But some sweet days I really wish there was a pause button."
Magnifier was recorded solo at Jennings' lake house in Minnesota with just vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, kick drum, and snare. Co-produced by Jennings and Stone Gossard, it finds the singer/songwriter at his most minimal and honest. These eight songs explore love, change, grief, and hope, crafted with the kind of quiet intensity and lyrical precision that has become his hallmark. Its minimalism results in one of Jennings most stripped-back and emotionally resonant works to date.
"A song is like a boat on the water," says Jennings. "You're trying to make it float with as few pieces as possible. If you do it right, it can be very healing."
Jennings' long career has been defined by that philosophy. Born in Honolulu, raised in Pittsburgh, and launched into national recognition from Minneapolis in the late '90s, his debut set the stage for a string of revered releases that balanced poetic introspection with melodic simplicity. Over the years, his work has drawn comparisons to Nick Drake and Tom Waits, yet his voice—emotionally direct, deeply human—remains unmistakably his own.
Magnifier follows Jennings' recent wave of creativity, including his collaboration with Stone Gossard in the genre-bending band Painted Shield and his 2024 release Holy Dive. With Magnifier, Jennings circles back to his acoustic roots, crafting what may be his most personal and affecting album yet.
Mason Jennings
2025 Tour Dates
June 4 - Fargo, ND - Jasper Hotel
June 11 - Portsmouth, NH - Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club
June 12 - Provincetown, MA - The Hawthorne Barn
June 13 - Lowell, MA - Taffeta Music Hall
June 14 - Portland, ME - One Longfellow Square
June 15 - Providence, RI - Alchemy
July 9 - Solana Beach, CA - Belly Up
July 10 - Los Angeles, CA - The Venice West
July 11 - Felton, CA - Felton Music Hall
July 12 - Morro Bay, CA - The Siren
July 13 - Santa Barbara, CA - Soho Restaurant & Music Club
July 26 - Welch, MN - Music by the Mississippi
