John Kelly is celebrating the release of his new CD "The Stage" with a release party Thursday, September 4 at the Mirror Lake Lyceum. We caught up with John to get the 411 before the debut.
Give us a quick bio on John Kelly, the man and the band.
John Kelly is a singer songwriter from Teaneck, New Jersey (by way of Nashville) living in St. Petersburg, FL. John started out on Bleaker Street in NYC playing when he was 18 years old and has since then found himself in Nashville studios playing with the likes of Al Perkins, Tim O'brien, Rob Hajacos, Dustin Overbeek and Casey Driessen. Influenced at a young age by such artists as Mark Knopfler, Allman Brothers, Marshall Tucker and Eric Clapton and further educated in life by such musically captivating entertainers as Vince Gill and Alison Krauss and Union Station, John has a wide range of musical styles - from what he calls "Chicken Pickin'" on audience favorites like Lucky Day, I got a feelin', and Country Livin' to "Life Moment Pieces" like Still, Jackson, Take Your Time and The Stage.
Luckily John doesn't have to stray far from his love of music in his everyday work. John owns and operates Hideaway Recording Studio, Inc., where he puts his talent to use helping other musicians realize their sound. John has played with some of the greatest musicians out there, which brings us to John's current lineup...
Rocking it out with the JKB on harmonica, guitar and backup vocals is Mississippi native Tim Poole. Tim settled in St Pete where he met his future wife, Geni Poole, who now graces the band with her beauty and style on the bass guitar. Backing it all up on the drums is Jeff Martin.
John's music has a truly unique sound which has been dubbed "an alt country crossover, rootsy sound full of strong melodies and honest lyrics". With the help of his band, John has been able to reach a wide audience, young and old, that appreciates him for his ability to create songs that inspire and move.
How would you describe your music?
Alternative Country / Rootsy / Singer-Songwriter / Honest Lyrics w/Rich Harmonies, Acoustic-Driven
Tell us how you got the band together and who you like to pick fights with the most.
I met Tim (guitar, harmonica and vocals) and Geni (bass guitar) at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, where we play in the contemporary service praise band. And the drummer, Jeff, was in my last few bands. Jeff is my favorite to pick on.
How long did it take to put this CD together and what has been your muse during the process?
It was a 2-year process, and my muse was family, my kids and my friends.
What song are you most proud of on your new CD, and which songs do you want to keep tweaking?
For once I can say that I am happy with this whole project. "Dreams" might be my favorite song.
While playing live, do you guys ever feel like breaking out with a punk or all-out rock versions of your songs?
No... but sometimes all-out country!
If you had to compose a song with 5 instruments you've never used before, but always wanted to, what would be in your new quintet?
Violin, Hammond B3 organ, piano, banjo, accordian
What are some of your favorite venues to play in Tampa Bay? And what are some of your favorite venues to see concerts?
Ringside Café, The Fly Bar & Restaurant, The Old Northeast Tavern, Downtown St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market, Courigan's Irish Pub. Venue to see concerts: Ruth Eckerd Hall
If you had a choice of your last meal ever from any local restaurant, before all of your taste buds were surgically removed... What would you order from which eatery?
Bonefish Grill: Filet Mignon
Now that the CD is out, what's next? The next CD!
What does the world still not know about John Kelly, but really should?
My fascination with civil engineering, and a need to change the world for the better.
Name your top five watering holes in Tampa Bay.
The Moon Under Water, Ringside Café, The Old Northeast Tavern, Courigan's Irish Pub, Shackleton's Folly Bar & Grill
