henry Gross

Henry Gross has spent his entire life immersed in music, building a career that spans iconic moments in rock history, enduring songwriting success, and decades of respected musicianship.

Many listeners first discovered Gross through his 1976 international hit “Shannon,” the heartfelt ballad written in tribute to the Irish Setter belonging to Beach Boys member Carl Wilson. The song became a worldwide success, reaching No. 1 in Canada and New Zealand, No. 6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and earning Gold certification in the United States. But while “Shannon” remains beloved, it represents just one chapter of a far richer story.

Long before his solo success, Gross was a founding member and lead guitarist of Sha Na Na, the pioneering 1950s revival group that famously took the stage just before Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock in 1969. At only 18 years old, Gross holds the distinction of being the youngest performer at Woodstock, cementing his place in music history at the very start of his career.

In 1970, Gross left Sha Na Na to pursue his path as a singer-songwriter. After signing with ABC Dunhill Records, he quickly became a sought-after session guitarist, contributing electric lead guitar to Jim Croce’s album I Got a Name. His solo career gained momentum with A&M Records, where his self-titled debut produced regional favorites including “Simone,” “Come On Say It,” “Skin King,” and a popular cover of “Meet Me on the Corner.” His follow-up album, Plug Me into Something, brought him national recognition.

Gross later signed with Lifesong Records, where he produced “Shannon” himself, a rare creative feat that underscored his dual talents as songwriter and producer. Subsequent releases showcased his evolving sound, blending classic rock, pop, and influences drawn from Brian Wilson and Phil Spector. Though his chart success slowed, his musical output never did.

As a guitarist, songwriter, and collaborator, Gross’s work has appeared on recordings by artists including Judy Collins, Mary Travers, Cyndi Lauper, Jonathan Edwards, Andy Kim, and many others. His songs have been recorded by Blackhawk, Southside Johnny, Garry Tallent, Rob Stoner, and more; a testament to his songwriting craft and industry respect.

In the 1980s, Gross expanded into musical theater, performing in the touring production of Pump Boys and Dinettes alongside artists such as Jonathan Edwards and Nicolette Larson. He later relocated to Nashville, where he signed a publishing deal with Pic-A-Lic Music, owned by legendary songwriters Roger Cook and Ralph Murphy.

Today, Henry Gross continues to perform and connect with audiences through songs that have stood the test of time. Beyond music, he is also a passionate advocate for pet adoption, reflecting the compassion that inspired his most famous song.

Henry Gross is not a one-hit wonder, he is a lifelong musician whose work has quietly shaped generations of listeners, artists, and songwriters alike.