At just 25 years old, Luke Moore is carving out a sound that's as soulful as the South he calls home. Moore is a rising talent in the Aiken music scene, blending gritty southern rock, heartfelt country and smooth Motown influences into a style that's uniquely his own. With a guitar in hand and stories in his songs, he's capturing hearts—and turning heads—with every performance. Whether he's playing a smoky backroom bar or crooning at an upscale vineyard, Moore’s music feels like a road trip through America's musical heartland, equal parts nostalgia and fresh discovery.
“The community’s been so welcoming, and they seem to connect with my sound. The music scene is growing. It’s exciting to be part of that.”
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
I got my start in Columbia by taking guitar lessons at Freeway Music. As a teenager, I played places like Beef ‘O’Brady’s and Tin Roof. Music has always been the one thing I’m truly passionate about. Funny enough, during my first performance I ran off the stage three times before I finally got through my first song. I’ve been at it for ten years now.I initially tried to play guitar left-handed but struggled until Don Russo, the owner at Freeway, helped me switch to right-handed. That made all the difference. I’d watch and mirror him. I also studied voice with Jessica Sims. She’s part of the duo, Prettier Than Matt.
Do you remember your first musical inspiration?
My grandmother was a huge Elvis fan. She had movies like Double Trouble and Roustabout on repeat when I was growing up. Watching him and listening to groups like The Temptations sparked something in me.
How would you describe your musical style or genre?
My sound is a blend of southern rock, country and Motown. I try to bring a little soul into every set.
What’s your songwriting process like?
I prefer writing with a partner—it helps to have someone to bounce ideas off. My buddy, Bill Simpson, in Alpharetta, Georgia, has a studio in his basement where we recorded my album Making My Way. It’s available on iTunes and Spotify.
What are your aspirations for the upcoming year?
I’m focused on getting back to playing with a full band. There’s a different energy when you’ve got a group behind you. You can catch me at Southbound Smokehouse, The Alley in downtown Aiken, Three Star Vineyard in Johnston, Local Junction on Whiskey Road, Champions Retreat Golf Club in Evans and Doc’s Porchside in Grovetown, Georgia.
What is it like performing locally?
Aiken’s been great to me. The community has been so welcoming, and they seem to connect with my sound. The music scene is growing. It’s exciting to be part of that.
The Aiken community’s been so welcoming, and they seem to connect with my sound. The music scene is growing. It’s exciting to be part of that.