ARTS Pick: Ellis Paul

Over his 20-year career, singer-songwriter Ellis Paul has released 19 records, received 14 Boston Music awards (along with a slew of other honors and decorations) and played close to 200 shows per year across the globe. With a leading role in the folk revival of the ’90s, Paul is often compared to legendary predecessors Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen, and has been credited with bridging the gap between contemporary folk and classic traditions. Fellow folk troubadour Michael Clem opens.

Friday 12/19. $16-20, 7pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. 977-5590.