A longtime performer at fundraisers, open mics, and parties, Chicago singer-songwriter Heidi Serwer began writing songs after a hiatus from playing music while she played mom to her two young children. She returned to her local Chicago music scene eager to share her stories and the results were startling: instantly memorable melodies, keenly observed situations, and a big-hearted approach to her characters and subjects. Heidi combined this innate songwriting knack with her sweet singing and nimble guitar playing to debut her fresh-sounding EP, Stranger, in 2014.
Heidi has since had two additional record releases, including her most recent Palm Tree on the Drywall in February, 2022. Inspired by Heidi’s deep ties to community music school, The Old Town School of Folk Music, and favorite Chicago band, Wilco, Palm Tree on the Drywall blends storytelling with an indie sensibility. The tracks were written in February, 2021 while under quarantine at home during an exceptionally unforgiving Chicago winter. Heidi partnered with Steve Dawson, Producer and Artist (Dolly Varden and Funeral Bonsai Wedding), last summer to make the record out of his Wicker Park, Chicago studio, Kernel Sound Emporium. About the record, one reviewer wrote, “Serwer’s vocals are intimate as she speaks and whispers her thoughts into your ear. There is a vulnerability to her performance as she releases all the emotions that many of us have felt in the last few years.”
Heidi collaborates with a variety of friends and local musicians, playing local Chicago favorites like The Hideout, Martyrs’, Cubby Bear, Uncommon Ground, and Montrose Saloon. She’s profiled in Esthetic Lens Magazine and featured on Deep Cuts - Sheffield Live!. You can most often find Heidi performing solo or with her indie rock band, Things That Fly, co-founded with friend and singer-songwriter, Karen Salmon. Things That Fly’s debut self-titled EP releases on Mother’s Day, May 14th.