Interview

An Intimate Interview with Chart-topping Singer-Songwriter John McDonough

John McDonough has been climbing the ladder of success in the music biz for the past several years, culminating in his recent #1 National Radio Hits airplay hit, “Point Me East.” His follow-up, the title track from his highly successful EP, “We’ll Answer the Call”, is looking like it will repeat the feat. John took time from his busy schedule to sit down with us for an intimate one-one-one…

Honk: What led you to pursue a career as a singer-songwriter?
John McDonough: I have always loved to sing. As a kid, I would crank my stereo and sing along at the top of my lungs pretending I was on stage. I also loved creative writing from a young age. I even wrote a short novel when I was 12 years old. I was mesmerized by the emotion a single person could convey with only their guitar, their words, and their voice, and I wanted to be able to create that myself.

How do you approach the songwriting process?
I will think about a song for a time before I start trying to write anything. I will think about what I want to say and the feel of the music I am going for. Then I will create an outline of what I want to say in the verses and chorus. I won’t have the words written word for word, but I will know basically what I want to convey in each section of the song. I like to write the music and the lyrics at the same time. It really helps to have the song half written in my head before I sit down with the guitar and start really trying to create the finished product. I will also often take breaks when working on a song so I am mentally fresh for each section. I just finished a new song where I wrote the first verse and chorus, and purposefully stopped. I came back to it the next day and wrote the second verse. Being fresh enables me to say what I want to say as creatively and effectively as possible.

What inspires you to create music?
Two different things inspire me to create. One is the ability to express things that are going on in my life. I have written songs about unrequited love, the love I have for my niece who is very special to me, and everything in-between. I am also a history buff, and often moved to write about people in history who have experienced incredible circumstances and risen to the occasion. For example, my last EP titled ‘We’ll Answer The Call,’ tells the story of Joe Rantz, the Washington Husky rowing team, and their epic bid for gold in the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. For my next CD I have written a couple songs about major people and moments in the Civil Rights movement of the 1950’s and 1960’s. I love sharing these stories of incredible people with my audience, and it makes me feel good to give them some added exposure I feel they deserve.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your music career, and how have you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced early in my career was constant self-doubt. “Am I good enough for this incredibly tough career choice?” It took many years and some therapy to become confident enough to live with that question and fully commit to music. I committed to working as hard as I can to become as good as I can be, and not worry so much about the outcome. I often remind myself that I do this because I love it and there is nothing else I would rather be doing. I also accepted there are many levels of “success,” and I can have a successful and satisfying career even if I never sell out a stadium tour. Another tough challenge was playing the tough gigs where people weren’t really listening or paying attention. My self-confidence always took a big hit after those gigs. With more experience I learned how to use my humor and story-telling skills to better engage the crowd. I still have those tough nights, but I do my best to not let it get me down. I focus on the enjoyment of playing my guitar and singing and view it as an opportunity to gain more experience and be better in the future.

What is your biggest strength as a musician, and how do you leverage it in your work?
I think my biggest strength is my work ethic. I am 58 years old, and have accomplished some exciting things. I have had a number 1 song on a national radio chart, performed live on radio and TV, and played some big festivals. Even with this, I continue to study my craft on my quest to be the best I can be. I continue to take guitar lessons and am always studying other artists material. This field is too competitive to have any weaknesses, and I aim to be a great singer, guitarist, and songwriter. This work ethic has given me the ability and the confidence to continue to put myself out there and have the successes I have had.

What do you consider to be your most successful song or project, and why?
I would have to say my latest EP, ‘We’ll Answer at the Call,’ has been my most successful project. It has had the most streams of all my recordings, the most radio play with several songs hitting top 10 on several different national radio charts, and the best reviews in national and international publications. I also feel it has been so well received because there is so much variety in the songs while always staying true to my singer/songwriter identity. There are moments of traditional singer/songwriter styles, moments where songs have a 1970’s soft rock feel, and even moments of more current, acoustic pop vibes. I am very proud of the variety I was able to create within only five songs, while staying lyrically engaging and vocally interesting.

How do you stay current with trends and changes in the music industry, and how do you adapt your work accordingly?
Honestly I try not to worry about trends in the music industry within my creative work of being a singer/songwriter. I feel one is always going to be two steps behind and 15 minutes late to the “scene” if one is trying to make their work fit in with the current trend. I wouldn’t be staying true to myself if I was always trying to adapt my style to the current trend in hopes of being more successful. I do pay attention to the current trends in regards to the recording and production of music. I want my music to be engineered, mixed and mastered to todays standards so it translates sonically as best as possible.

Can you describe a time when you worked collaboratively with other musicians or producers?
I do most of my collaboration with musicians and producers in the studio when I am recording. I love this process! I love having the other musicians add their parts and help my songs really come alive. I have worked with the same musicians and producer for my last several projects, and I am very open to their ideas. Typically I will record my acoustic guitar and vocals at the same time. I have my engineer/producer set up the mikes, and I will get live takes of my song. Then we will layer on top of my track. Sometimes I will have ideas for what I want the other instruments to do. Often I let my musicians play parts they come up with. I know they will have ideas that I would never think of, and usually their ideas are just what the song needs. I am very lucky to have such creative and talented people in my corner, and they are always 100 percent committed to making my project as good as possible.

How do you handle criticism or negative feedback about your work?
I listen and think about what has been said. Usually, if the feedback is valid, I will agree with it and think of how I want to work with this criticism. I always remind myself that it’s going to be my name on the CD, and if I am as happy as possible with the end product, then I can live with any criticism or negative feedback.

What are your long-term career goals as a singer-songwriter, and how do you plan to achieve them?
My goal and dream is to be successful enough that I am playing to small theaters. I want to play to audiences that are there to hear me, and where I can really engage with the people. I love the nights I can talk about my songs and the history behind them. I plan to keep writing and recording with the goal of creating something so great it cannot be ignored. I also plan on continuing to play live, build my fan base, and create a grass roots movement to share my music with as many people as possible.

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Related Topics:folk Interview john mcdonough singer-songwriter

Up Next

Heartfelt Lyrics of FRANK JOSHUA’s “Wonderful You” Soars in the Pop Realm.

Don't Miss

Olivia Reid drops a haunting dreamscape with “Nightmare Machine”

Michael Stover

Stay updated! Click the Google News follow button for more news and updates.

Follow on Google News

Artist Spotlight

Exclusive Interview with Country Chart-Topper Ashley Puckett

Ashley, it’s great to have you here. Let’s start from the beginning. Can you share a bit about your journey into music and how your upbringing in North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, influenced your musical path?

Hi! Thank you for taking some time with me today!
My musical journey started when I was only about 5 years old when I sang my first song from the Dixie Chicks. Sometimes I like to say it even started before, because my mother would sing to me all the time When I was little, and there was always country music playing. Growing up, I had a great childhood. I was a happy child, always had my parents support for anything I wanted to do. I didn’t want for anything. Still to this day, my parents are my biggest fan. I remember growing up I was writing songs on my swing set outside in the summer. Music was just part of me growing up all the way to where I am now.

You mentioned being inspired by artists like Lee Ann Womack, Carrie Underwood, and Miranda Lambert. How have these influential figures shaped your style and approach to songwriting and performing?

I love traditional county music. And gals like Miranda allow me to still do what I do because a lot of this genre is moving to pop country, and there’s listeners out there that still want to hear some good ol’ country tunes. My influences are those who I can follow a path of success and motivation no matter the set backs, and those who have paved ways for others. These women, among others showed me at an early age that you can be yourself and stick to your roots, and more success will come from that.

At age sixteen, you picked up the guitar and began writing songs. What was it about songwriting that drew you in, and how did you hone your skills as a songwriter over the years?

Yes, learning to play guitar was a very big part of taking my songwriting to the next level. For me, songwriting came early also. It’s always been an outlet for me to express myself. I’m a very good listener, but when it comes to talking,I usually say it better in song. It’s a way to remember the good times and help me get through the bad. And the thing is, I’m not the only one who goes through those emotions, so it’s a way to share a way of healing for others, too.

Your debut album, “Never Say Never,” was a lifelong dream come true. Can you tell us about the process of bringing this album to life and working with industry professionals like Bryan Cole and Doug Kasper?

It truly was nothing short of a dream come true! I love being on stage, and writing songs, but the part where you get to work with like minded, talented individuals and see your work come to life and share a million creative moments together is by far my favorite part of making music. It’s been a while now since I’ve been in the studio, and I miss it very much!

The first single from your album, “Medicine,” charted nationally and received widespread acclaim. What was the inspiration behind this song, and how did it feel to see it resonate with audiences?

When I heard that song for the first time, it spoke to my heart because it was just so raw and beautiful. There’s an innocence about that one that I felt could touch many different types of people just like it did me. I love acoustic love song, easy listening music, and this one was all of that wrapped in one.
I knew this song had to be part of my debut album because it was a perfect fit to my traditional style, my vocals, and love for beautiful melodies. I love how the audience has taken an immediate interest in me and this song and helped start my mainstream music career.

“Bulletproof,” released on your birthday, became a #1 iTunes hit in South Africa, and a #1 Radio Hit in the US. What was your reaction to the song’s success, and did you expect it to have such a significant impact?

Oh my gosh, it was such a surprise to me! Honestly, when that happened, it gave me a whole new look on my accomplishments to that moment and made me realize that every little success until then had contributed to that very moment. So I till this day appreciate the little things and the little successes a lot more because I know they will lead to much more. I was also very surprised to learn about the culture in South Africa and how they outsource music and love country! That was very cool to learn! I’d love to visit there sometime!

Your single, “What’s Her Name,” was also a radio hit. Can you give us a glimpse into the inspiration behind this track and what listeners should expect from it?

This one was very fun to record! It’s very “done me wrong, cheating song country” haha. A lot of us have unfortunately been in that situation, and it was finally a moment to sing about it! You put so much into something and give your all to someone who would just rather take it for granted and not show the decency to you that the relationship isn’t working out, they go out and cheat and then play at home like it’s all good and perfect. You’re blind sided. Naturally it makes you wonder who she is and what’s her name.

You mentioned that meeting Bryan and Doug reignited your passion for music and inspired you to pursue your dreams. What is it about your collaboration with them that makes it so special, and how has it influenced your creative process?

In so many ways! This opportunity when we all met and decided to move forward gave me my chance at country music. So I knew my life was changing I just didn’t know how or what to expect. Throughout the process of making the album, I leaned a lot about the industry and a lot about myself. I think this project made me a better artist both creatively and professionally. As I mentioned earlier, when I have the chance to be in the studio, it became my favorite part of my entire career. Just getting to create music from nothing and see it turn into a masterpiece with a bunch of talent in the room making it possible is just beyond amazing. It also inspired me to keep writing – not that it was going away, but because I saw that the words I put on paper were not just words anymore with an A-cappella melody, it was a radio hit. That people liked!

With your new single, “Anchor,” on the horizon, what can fans anticipate from this latest release, and how does it fit into the larger narrative of your musical journey?

I’m very excited to share this one! I wrote this song on a birthday vacation in Florida. I love the sea and I get most my inspiration lately it seems from the ocean. This song is a pretty melody, vocal and simple yet story telling song. My favorite instrument you don’t hear much anymore is steel guitar, so we brought that back here for sure! After my debut album, I wanted to start sharing my original work, and “Anchor” is going to be a follow up to my first written debut back in 2022, “Tequila”

That song was accepted very well and made it into the top 80 on the Music Row charts, so I’m hoping this one can set a huge stage for me and my writing and overall career showing that I didn’t just write and sing one song, I’m a songwriter, too, and I have a lot to say and share!

Finally, where can listeners find your music and stay updated on your upcoming releases and performances?

All major platforms, wherever you listen. Amazon music, Apple Music, pandora, Spotify, or if you’re out and about on the town having a drink, play a song on any AMI Jukebox! I’m also really big on Facebook and instagram for all things Ashley including upcoming events and performances. You can also check out my website at www.AshleyPuckett.com

Tweet LinkedIn PinShare1

Artist Spotlight

A Conversation with Singer Songwriter Eddy Mann

Eddy Mann is a smile for the soul. He’s a combination of cultural and spiritual traditions living in an ever evolving neighborhood. He’s ever comfortable in his hometown Philly roots that speak of peace, and brotherly love. An award winning and prolific singer-songwriter, he’s moved gracefully through a catalog of twenty diverse albums. His hit single, “The Consequence” was a Top 10 Christian Music Weekly radio hit.

His latest album, “Chapel Songs” featured the #1 UK ITunes hits, “Hallelujah” and “Hope of the World.” His new album is out on June 7th, with the first single being released today. Eddy took some time to answer some questions about his music, his career, and of course, his faith…

HM: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your single “The Humble Cottage by the Sea”? What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from it?

Eddy Mann: The inspiration came from a gospel story that presents a theme of healing and hope. In a world that’s broken and hurting, one can only pray that a message of peace and unity might be found within the spirit of the song.

“Turn Up the Divine” is your latest album set to release soon. How does this album differ from your previous work, both musically and thematically?

EM: The album is a collection of divine stories and prayer moments that have been put to song over the past year. They’re really just a reflection of my daily experiences. The musical influences are a little more diverse than usual, but that’s just what the songs were calling for.

Your music is known for blending cultural and spiritual influences. How do you navigate incorporating these elements into your songwriting process?

EM: I don’t consciously bring influences into a song, but what I’ve been exposed to naturally becomes a part of my fabric, and then it’s re-processed into my own creativity. I’ve had a very diverse upbringing and it probably shows throughout my catalog.

“The Consequence” was a Top 10 Christian Music Weekly radio hit. Could you share the story behind that song and its impact on your career?

EM: The Consequence was released in November of 2016 on election day. I wanted to make a statement about the apathy I was witnessing. Our system only works if everyone participates. Anything less than that doesn’t reflect honestly about who we are, and how we feel. It was my hope that I might bring a few more folks into the fray and that would help in the cause.

Both “Hope of the World” and “Hallelujah” from your album “Chapel Songs” topped the UK iTunes Christian chart. What do you think contributed to their success, and how do you plan to build on that with your new album?

EM: Both of those songs took a very simplified approach musically and lyrically. I was looking for an easily remembered melody with an easily remembered lyric, and both songs seem to reflect that it was successful on some level. I’m pleased that they’ve done as well as they have.

Your career spans over 20 albums. How do you keep your music fresh and relevant while staying true to your artistic vision?

EM: I’m a student by nature, I love learning new things and I think that helps to naturally put me in new situations where I can be surrounded with challenging thoughts and different soundscapes.

You mentioned that God often appears in humble settings, such as the cottage by the sea. How does this concept influence your approach to music and ministry?

EM: As a man of faith, I never wander anywhere on my own. What I mean is that my faith is always traveling along with me, usually leading the way, and yes, sometimes correcting my faulty navigation. It doesn’t matter where I might be, or what may be going on around me, my God is not influenced by the trappings of this world.

What can fans expect from “Turn Up the Divine” in terms of sound and lyrical content?

EM: Everything was written, performed, and produced in house, under the Spirit’s watchful eye, and with the blessing of the One. So the success of the project will be measured in it reaching each and everyone that God intends.

With the changing landscape of the music industry, how do you see Christian music evolving, and how do you position yourself within that evolution?

EM: I’ve reached an understanding that I just need to be an honest reflection of myself. I don’t feel restricted or restrained by what the business tells me I should be doing, about the how the mix should sound, or about what messages are deemed appropriate. What God wants is for me to speak, write, and record what the Spirit puts on my heart, and then he’ll use it to fulfill His purpose.

What are your hopes and aspirations for your music career moving forward, especially with the release of your new album?

EM: I have no expectations anymore. I’ve been blessed to have produce an abundantly humble catalog. So I’ll just continue to follow the Spirit wherever it leads and be grateful.