About

Chris Rafter

Chris Rafter is a rising force in the alternative scene, bringing a fresh blend of
East Coast grit and modern country-folk-rock energy. Originally from Philadelphia,
Rafter’s music fuses authentic storytelling with bold, melodic hooks—offering a sound that feels both grounded and genre-defying.
His breakout single “Havertown” has already garnered over 250,000 streams on
Spotify, a testament to his ability to turn personal experiences into universally
resonant songs. The track’s nostalgic, place-based narrative showcases Rafter’s gift for crafting music that connects on a deeply emotional level.
Building momentum with key collaborations through SoundRoom, The Motive, and
Futon Sessions, Rafter is also making waves on stage. He’s sold out headline shows at venues like MilkBoy and MOM’s in Doylestown, while earning coveted slots at
destination venues and festivals including Desert 5 Spot and Barefoot Country Music Festival.
With a full-length album coming September 12 via Smith Music and a fast-growing
fanbase, 2025 is set to be a breakout year.
Authentic, driven, and distinctly original—Chris Rafter is an artist on the rise, and a
name to watch on any festival or tour lineup.

The Clothing & Stuff

I didn't want to make a typical indie artist merch store. This is my personal commitment to creating gear that stands the test of time. Every item reflects my personal style- pieces I wear myself, and, for my cropped tee's and tanks, pieces I imagine a more effeminate version of me wearing.

I enjoy experimenting and testing things, evident in my own fashion choices (or lack thereof) and music choices. Repetition bores me, so I blend feedback with my evolving personal style to craft each new launch.

Colors, designs, fits, and items will absolutely change- but quality will stay the same or improve.  I will not push bullshit.  I don't view merchandise as a cash grab for some idiot at my label to whip up with AI and push onto my fans like pig slop, using nothing but data points and margin minded thinking.  For good or for bad, just like my music, what I put into the world is me. 

Live Shows

One of the main things that will seperate real artists from tsunami of AI music that is about to hit us (and the stuff that might as well be AI) is the live performance.  None of this virtual Covid-era webcam shit.  In person, loud, passionate performances of the songs I write.  This is what we live for- and we can't wait to bring it to a city near you.  Quick intro to the boys in the band:

Mark Menk- Bassist/Co-Producer/Music Director/ Back-Up Vox (IG: @markmenk)

Joe Fantacone- Drummer (IG: @joe_fantacone)

Matt Vitali- Lead Guitar- (IG: @mdvitali)

Sal Molinari- Guitar/ Accordion/ Mandolin- (IG: @sal_molinari)

Leo Kozsuch- Keys (and former videographer)- (IG: @leokozsuch)

Keith Steel- Pedalsteel/ Banjo- (IG: kgpedalsteel)