There is a bold and distinct valley in today's musical landscape, thirsting to be filled with quality art of the highest form. There are those who wish to be stirred by the same musical wind that brought Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway and the likes. From the Louisiana bayous comes John Anthony, stepping in to occupy the void with pure, unadulterated vocals reminiscent of Michael Jackson's "Off the Wall" days and Smokey Robinson's coveted falsetto. But John, a self-taught keyboardist, drummer and trumpeter, sculpts a unique blend of relic soul and fresh innovativeness that makes his music his own. John Anthony Reared in the small, factory-town, John's musical journey took root even before his conception. "My father played bass," says John. "My mother was a singer. She taught me the first song that I knew," "Stand By Me." John's talents however would take him far from the home he loved. He formed a trio, LeJit, with his two brothers and ventured west to Las Vegas. His vocal prowess caught the attention of producer Devante of Jodeci fame, who wrote a song for the group for the "What's the Worst That Could Happen" soundtrack.
Now a solo artist, John shows off his talent of effortlessly blending R&B, soul with hints of blues and jazz. As a musician/producer/songwriter, John reaches beyond traditional musical boundaries, taking listeners to a destination where they enjoy a sound that is unique, live, colorful, rich and exclusively his own. With an expanding following, John now has the challenge of satisfying his core base while continuing to stretch his own limits. "But I'm a musician," says John. "I can adjust my music to suit local and widespread flavor without compromising my tastes and standards." When it comes to creating music, John doesn't follow the mainstream outline or the commercial path. And for that, he is known for making melodies that are not only soulful and beautiful, but lasting. With influences like Smokey Robinson and Marvin Gaye, John's music is definitely for the mature, the grown, sexy and assured.
His first independent release, "The reBirth of JA" features tracks celebrating all sides of love and human nature. The racy "Downtown" boasts strong base lines, swooning instrumentals and not-so-subtle inquiries to a stubborn lover, while "So Fine" pays tribute to the defining beauty of women. Saturated with funky beats, The reBirth of JA also features a few tracks to dance to like "Wanna Love U". John knew from an early age that he would stamp the world with music. Each emotion-filled lyric, beat and string on The reBirth of JA were arranged by John himself. Though a major undertaking, John says making relevant music that people can enjoy and relate to is the reward. "Music is continuous," he explains. "It can never be taken away from you."
