John Reynolds A few questions for John Reynolds – a writer, arranger, vocalist who also plays guitar, woodwind instruments and keyboards.
Leicester Bangs: Tell us a little about yourself, and your band (if applicable). John: I am from the Boston area, New England.
I also have ancestors who came from Leiden in The Netherlands, which led me to discover Dutch music and language. I like to stay open to opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
I've been involved in music as long as I can remember. I studied vocal performance at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts and trained in other vocal programs.
LB: How did you start out making music? John: As a child I took piano lessons, hence I went from the school bands into jazz bands, initially starting out on the folk music circuit as a teenager and later performing in resorts and jazz venues in Florida, California, NYC, and top rated venues in New England such as Scullers Jazz club in Boston.
LB: Who did you grow up listening to and how do they influence what you’re doing now? John: My early influences were in the folk, blues, jazz, and rhythm and blues genres. Many artists like Joni Mitchell, Janis Ian, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, James Taylor… have all been influential… a long list.
I appreciate a wide variety of artists, Adele, Mark Knopfler, many others.
It's also been great to discover the talented Dutch artists like Ilse DeLange, Ruth Jacott, and so many more from the jazz era.
LB: Tell us about your latest release. John: With simple ballads, soft jazz / folk, it's easy listening. "Amsterdam" is about travel, movement and discovery. I wanted it to be unassuming and gentle, kind of universal. I think we are all the same and we are all connected.
LB: Do you get out and play your music live, and if so, what can an audience expect at one of your shows? John: I am not presently doing live performance however people are usually surprised where I am reserved and quiet but I also have a big voice. I've found audiences to be great!
LB: What aspects of playing and recording music do you most enjoy? John: A far as a creative outlet, writing, arranging, performing, and recording new material is a fantastic avenue and I enjoy the independent nature of it, and writing in solitude. I also like the synergy of working with other musicians and the fun of live performance.
Probably what I enjoy the most is if somebody finds the music and it speaks to them, then I am very happy.
LB: Where can people find (and buy) your music? John: My website and CD Baby (links below).
