John McNamara is known for his incredible vocals, he even won an award for them, but he should also be known for his ability to play on unusual, and often moving, stages. We had the chat to John ahead of one such gig on The Blues Train.
Hi John, thanks for taking some time out to chat with Forte, how are you and what are you up to at the moment?
I’m doing great thanks, it’s good to talk with you. Lately I’ve been busy playing shows, performing songs from my album and trying out some new tunes also. It’s been a great 12 months. Released the album, became a father. Life is good.
So your new album is titled ‘Alone with the Blues’, is that often how you feel when it comes to that music?
You know, I’m actually a very chilled out, stress free kinda person – I have nothing but joy when playing blues music. ‘Alone with the Blues’ is the title because – much like my live shows – it’s just me and my mini maton. Alone with the blues. The whole record is one voice ,one guitar. I’ve often found that my favourite song on another album is the one track that is stripped right back, and you can really just tune into the voice or instrument. That raw intimate stuff. So, I made an entire album of just that.
You’ve got quite a few awards under your belt, most recently the Australian Blues Music Award for song of the year, was that a great moment for you?
You bet. I was nominated for three Australian Blues Music awards this year. Which was a great honour. I couldn’t make it to the ceremony, though when I received the good news via text – I was over the moon. Unfortunately I dropped my phone moments later and the screen was buggered. Ha. Still didn’t damper my mood!
That track, ‘Burn, Burn, Burn’ was actually an acapella track, and you are known for your incredible vocals. Were you aware pretty early on as a kid that you had a great voice?
Not at all, I was always a guitar player. Playing in bands etc. I could hold harmonies really well, and enjoyed singing BVs. It wasn’t until around 2010 when I actually starting singing and playing – doing my own thing. I have never taken singing lessons, though I am really taking care of my voice and always working on it. Because you have to when playing festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe. One time I played 35 shows in less than a month. So you have to respect it.
Were your first ventures into music straight into the blues?
I started off playing rock music. I was in cover bands since I was 17. Then original rock group Storm Front which was an amazing time. I had become a fan of many blues guitarists and just went deeper and deeper into the genre until I didn’t want to hear much else. I actually had the better part of a decade without performing live. Then I toured as the guitarist for Mr. BIG vocalist Eric Martin in 2007, and began work as a promoter – working with some amazing artists. Soon enough gI ot back into playing my own music and I haven’t looked back since.
Sad news came with the passing of blues legend B.B. King, did he have much of an influence on your music?
Of course, sad news indeed. I was fortunate enough to perform a showcase in BB King’s Memphis Club earlier this year and soaked up as many good vibes as possible. BB lives in all our blues solos.
The Blues Cruise is set to be a fun gig as well, do you really enjoy playing unique gigs like on The Blues Train?
Oh yeah, the unique gigs are the best. I have now played on a train, a paddle steamer, in a medieval church, an old military base in Germany, an outdoor show in the Black forest hills, played against the river in down town Singapore, casinos, and…. a giant upside-down purple cow. I shit you not. And yes, the Blues Train is my home away from home. A blues festival on wheels and I am so grateful to be performing there so often.
Thanks again for chatting with us, is there anything you’d like to add?
Check out www.johnmcnamarablues.com for upcoming shows and download a free song. Thank you.
When & Where: The Blues Train, Queenscliff – May 29 & Goldmines Hotel, Bendigo – June 14
