While it may seem that Generation Y’s interest is geared toward a simplified pop sound there are still musicians that thrive off of a musical challenge such as world-renowned musician and guitarist John Jorgenson. Jorgenson performed at Pepperdine’s Smothers Theatre Saturday to approximately 250 people.
Those who attended Jorgenson’s concert at Pepperdine were given a rich satisfying taste of gypsy jazz.
Jorgenson’s resume boasts awards collaborations films and world tours. He is also considered a pioneer of the “gypsy jazz movement a style of music that came out of France in the 1930’s. Jorgenson grew up in Southern California and by age 14 he was playing professionally.
In the 1980s he co-founded the Desert Rose Band, w-ith Chris Hillman of the sixties music group The Byrds. The band earned five No. 1 singles and acquired several awards. It even caught the interest of a 14-year-old boy who would come to be a country icon for our generation: Brad Paisley.
There was a young guy that came to see [Desert Rose Band] who was a fan of my guitar playing Jorgenson said. His name was Brad Paisley. [Recently] he invited me to come and play on one of his songs for his most recent album. That cut has been nominated for a Grammy he said.
Midway through the band’s career they played at The Roxy in Los Angeles to premiere their second album, Running.” Amongst the crowd was rock icon Elton John.
“Apparently he was really taken with my guitar playing and we met shortly after that Jorgenson said. Six years later he called and asked me to play in his band. I did that for six years touring all around the world and playing with him.”
During this experience Jorgenson was not only fortunate enough to play alongside Elton John but he also collaborated with musicians such as Sting George Michaels and Billy Joel. Jorgenson describes Elton John as “A great guy to work for and very respectful of musicians.”
Best known as a pioneer of the American gypsy jazz movement Jorgenson has set his sights on continuing the momentum it has already gained.
“It’s more of a European style music tradition Jorgenson said. I’ve been a proponent of it by talking about it in magazines and recording it. My first solo album in this style came out in 1988.”Gypsy jazz is said to have originated from a French man named Django Reinhardt. Inspired by Louis Armstrong Reinhardt started playing in a similar style but on the guitar instead of the trumpet.
“It doesn’t seem revolutionary now but in those days it was Jorgenson said. Guitars were not considered lead instruments. He was the first guitarist to lead his own band and the first soloist to be recognized that wasn’t American.”
Accompanied by the violin guitar bass and percussion Jorgenson’s own guitar playing was technically difficult and fast paced. The audience responded with yells and claps of approval. Jorgenson’s next album is set to be released early this year. It will include not only the sounds of his compositions but also the musical intensity of a full orchestra.
“I’m looking forward to the orchestra CD Jorgenson said. I’m excited for the Grammy nominations and I’m getting ready to go over to Europe England and Scotland to play. We want everybody to know not to be afraid of the term jazz. Our music is accessible and high-energy.”
For a unique refreshing sound or to learn more about Jorgenson visit www.johnjorgenson.com.