Earth is a Solar
Powered Jukebox
The amazing world of sound from leading field recording artist Gordon Hempton. The Sound Tracker, listener, speaker and more.
Gordon Hempton
The Sound Tracker®
Gordon Hempton is an international acoustic ecologist and Emmy Award winning sound recordist who has spent more than 40 years capturing the world’s natural soundscapes. His expertise has been sought by prominent organizations such as Apple, Microsoft, Audible, National Geographic, Smithsonian, BBC and NPR. His work has been recognized by The Lindbergh Foundation, Rolex Awards for Enterprise, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Author of two books: One Square Inch of Silence (2010) and Earth is a Solar Powered Jukebox (2014). Hempton speaks widely about the importance of listening.
Sound Albums
View and listen to the albums available on our online store. Download now to play anywhere.
Quiet Planet
Explore more from Gordon Hempton at Quiet Planet for an array of stunning sound libraries.
Speaking
Gordon Hempton is available for speaking events and workshops. Listen to his amazing story and connect.
The Sound Journey
Hempton’s journey into sound recording began after graduating from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in botany and pursuing graduate studies in plant pathology. His early works, produced under The Sound Tracker® label, showcased his dedication to preserving nature’s audio heritage. His recordings from The Nature Conservancy’s Yellow Island Preserve and subsequent projects highlighted the importance of natural soundscapes, attracting significant media attention and public awareness.
Environmental Sound Portraits
Hempton’s career includes circling the globe to record dawn’s chorus, resulting in the Emmy Award-winning PBS documentary, Vanishing Dawn Chorus. He has also explored the soundscapes of historic figures like Mark Twain and John Muir, contributing to television documentaries. Hempton continues to publish, design soundscapes, and consult, remaining a passionate advocate for preserving the vanishing sounds of nature. His latest series, Environmental Sound Portraits, marks a significant addition to his illustrious body of work.