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Cincinnati Band Ranks Among Top US Songwriters
3 Jun
Summary
- The National ranked 85th on a list of 100 greatest living American songwriters.
- Band members Matt Berninger and Aaron Dessner have collaborated with Taylor Swift.
- The National formed in Brooklyn, New York, with all members hailing from Cincinnati.

A Cincinnati-founded band, The National, has earned a spot on a prestigious list of the 100 greatest living American songwriters. The group, comprised of Cincinnati natives Matt Berninger, Aaron and Bryce Dessner, and Bryan and Scott Devendorf, was ranked 85th in a reader-driven poll following an initial New York Times Magazine feature.
This recognition underscores the band's impact on the contemporary music scene. Notably, members Aaron and Bryce Dessner have collaborated extensively with global superstar Taylor Swift, contributing to her Grammy-winning album "Folklore" and subsequent releases.
Despite forming in Brooklyn, New York, in 1999, the band members share a strong connection to their Cincinnati origins. They often cite their shared upbringing in the city's vibrant music scene as a foundational element of their artistry and bond.
The National boasts a considerable discography, including ten studio albums and three Grammy nominations. Their album "Sleep Well Beast" received a Grammy in 2017 for Best Alternative Music Album.