Jonah Kagen’s First stop on tour
January 20th, 2026 — Indianapolis, IN.
Singer, musician, and songwriter Jonah Kagen kicked off his cross country Sunflowers and Leather Tour at the Hi-Fi in Indianapolis, Indiana. While the temperature was freezing outside, the environment of the sold out show was nice and cozy. With minimal lighting and a table lamp on stage, the vibes felt very home-y.
It’s no coincidence that the show felt that way with how Jonah describes the meaning of his album, Sunflowers and Leather. Jonah says, “Sunflowers and Leather is a snapshot of my mind at this point in my life. It’s an investigation of all the questions and existential wonders that live with me, and it’s documentation of my search for meaning, purpose, identity, and faith. There are connections between all of these songs (and to previous projects) hidden in the lyrics throughout the album. The title comes from the lyric in my song “Matches”: “When I die, I want my life to look like sunflowers and leather.” What I mean by this is–when I’m on my deathbed, looking back on my life, I want to see experience and beauty; struggle and joy; things to cry about, and things to cry laughing about. I want to have stories to tell. These are the stories that I have to tell right now.”
In his press release it further explains, ““Sunflowers” represents beauty and joy, while “Leather” speaks to pain and grit, both of which he believes are essential to the human experience.”
This tour marks the kick-off for his biggest headlining tour to date. With 32 shows and multiple sold out cities, it’s clear Jonah is making a name for himself within the folk-alternative genre. Fans were ecstatic to spend a Tuesday night huddled in the Hi-Fi with no barricade, and hearing the beautiful music from Jonah and his band. I believe what makes this album so unique is that it was written and recorded in his mobile studio which is an Airstream RV that has been modified for musicians! When the album debuted at #3 on Spotify’s New Album’s Chart, he found himself with millions of streams and fans awaiting a tour to celebrate the success of Sunflowers and Leather. I can confidently say, his vocals are just as good, if not better, live. It was evident he truly loves making music, and it was easily seen as his smile and humor infected the fans all throughout the show.
Photos by Megan Hostetler & Shelby Beckler If you get the opportunity to see Jonah Kagen on this tour, don’t miss out. Stream his album Sunflowers and Leather as well as his newest release, “Mississippi River Bluebird” on all platforms. Links to his socials can be found right below!
