JPF Home Page Forums General Messages General Message Forum 10 or 20 Most Influential Artists/Writers on YOUR career?

What a fun question.

1. Brian Wilson (for production and for introducing complex harmonies to Rock and Roll).

2. Jeff Lynne (for production and for introducing Classical Music to Rock and Roll).

3. John Lennon & Paul McCartney (for doing much of it first).

4. Harry Chapin (for telling awesome stories via his music).

5. Tom Petty (for producing filler-free albums).

6. Cat Stevens (simple never sounded so good).

7. Carl Wilson (the most awesome voice of the Beach Boys).

8. Ray Charles (for recording "The Mess Around").

9. Little Richard (Pioneer of Rock and Roll).

10. Elvis Presley (the man is legendary).

11. Johnny Horton ("Honky Tonk Man" "Battle of New Orleans" "Sink the Bismark", just to name a few.)

12. Stompin' Tom Connors (a Canadian Legend).

I could probably go on, but these are the ones I'll remember fondly.

Well, here are mine:

10.THE BEATLES
same reason for everybody else

9. BABYFACE
every major R&B artist did one of this guys songs. but his best song, he recorded himself. the song "how come, how long" w/ stevie wonder on the "unplugged" album is one of the best performance of a song on record ive ever heard.

8. COUNTING CROWS
great writing, great voice, and great delivery. their music is very consistent. Adam Duritz has a vivid imagination and a great way to paint pictures for the listener.

7. SKIP EWING
a very popular songwriter in 90's country music. he is a great storyteller. some examples are collin raye's "love me", and mark wills "wish you were here". his songs really show the importance of simple gestures.

6. RYAN ADAMS
clearly the most prolific solo artist out right now. every song is so pure.

5. EDWIN MCCAIN
another artist whose puplic image doesnt do him justice. he's only hits were simple ballads......he is so much more than that.
songs like "Sign on The Door" about a woman who he meets at a bar who has a sign on her romantic door that says "sorry, we're closed" is a great start.

4. ROB THOMAS and MATCHBOX TWENTY
i remember hearing "push" and new they would be around for awhile. if you watch the dvd, rob does "3am" with just the piano, the way he originally wrote it. its so incredible.
one of the few radio bands out there, that deserve to be out there. "Bright Lights" is probably the first real hit song they've had that really shows who these guys are.

3. GEORGE STRAIT
watch the movie "pure country" with him. the ending is how id like to approach my concerts. simple, straight-forward

2. BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
im a jersey guy.
the towns in the songs....i live in.
the places....i go to.
the people....i shake hands with.
"johnny 99" from the live album his probably my personal favorite. it shows a side of him that really doesnt come out on the commercial songs.

1. GARTH BROOKS
so Whitney Houston pretty much plays herself in "the bodyguard" and music thats not different and is critically acclaimed. Eminem plays himself and does his typical music, and gets critically acclaimed.

garth goes and does a movies where the music is completely different and so the image....and succeeds. the music is solid, and the image you can barely tell its him, which means good acting. and the critics trash it........

are you kidding me.

the whole chris gaines thing, shows this guy took risks. that alone is worth praise. he has one of the best live shows, and the best about the live shows, is theres no gimmicks or big stage effects......HE'S THE SHOW. HE'S THE EFFECT. and for the most part its just him and his guitar. (the dance, unanswered prayers, if tomorrow never comes, the river, and his cover of american pie....all are a part of his show....and all are just him and his guitar.)


whats not to love about him. i could go on forever about him.

scott

My favorites...

1. Mary Chapin Carpenter
http://www.sonymusic.com/labels/nashville/MCC/


2. Steven McClintock
www.stevenmcclintock.com


Anna Marie

www.annamariemusic.us

My influences? Okay, but be forewarned that this affects =all= the music I write, not just the songs. (I write classical music, film scores, musical theater, and so on.) Oh, and the list is in no particular order.

* Paul Simon: Always an interesting songwriter, even when his attempts at new things fail--which isn't often. Damn literate lyricist. Besides, he was Bar Mitzvah at my old shul.

* James Taylor: Manages to lay out his whole life without wincing, and makes you love it. An amazing performer too.

* Judy Collins: A beautiful person, one of the purist voices I've ever heard, and the level of unpretentious sophistication is enviable. And, I have to admit, I had a crush on her when I was a young'un.

* Dave Brubeck: Finally met the man 2 weeks ago! I musically grew up listening to the "Time Out" series of recordings.

* Igor Stravinsky: Hearing the opening bassoon solo in "The Rite of Spring" MADE me want to become a composer. I remember thinking "How does he DO that? =I= want to do that!"

* The Beatles: Mostly Paul and George for a long time, but then I started realizing just how good John was. Together, P & J were simply phenomenal.

* George Gershwin: One of my personal heros, 'cause he did classical, stage, and "pop".

* Leonard Bernstein: Another multithreat and another hero.

* The Coasters: Yeah, I know, it's weird. But I was a kid 8-10 years old, listening to "Yakety Yak," "Charlie Brown," and such, and thinking--without using the word specifically--"This is cool stuff."

* Tom Leher AND Allen Sherman: What can I say? I like parodies--my first songs were parodies--and I like other humorous songs.

* David Bromberg: Amazing, amazing guy. He can play any damn instrument he picks up expertly, it seems, and while he can't =sing=, he can sure convince you he's doing it while he's up there warblin'. Not to mention that his songwriting skills are as top-notch as his pickin'.

* John Hall: Of Orleans fame. I always loved the groups' main hits ("Still The One", "Dance With Me", "Half Moon", etc.). Then about 4 years ago I got to meet him. What a pleasure--incredibly intelligent, dedicated to bettering the world around him in several ways. He's also a great guitarist, singer, and, of course, songwriter.

* Arlo Guthrie: I mean, I wanted to BE Arlo Guthrie. I mean, I wanted to be sittin' there on the Group W bench...Now, Kid! Sings like his neck is in a noose, but he's another performer who convinces you otherwise. His songs are straightforward, funny, heartfelt, and damn catchy. Gee, I wonder where he gets it from?

* Aaron Copland: Mr. Americana in Classical Music.

* George Perle: One of my composition teachers (private). Created 12-tone-tonality (which is NOT 12-tone music by any means) and taught me a lot about it while I was still wet behind the ears. Wound up writing my dissertation on his Wind Quintet #4 (his Pulitzer winning piece). Incredible intellect, beautiful and absorbing music.

* Frank Sinatra: The phrasing, man, the phrasing!

* Tony Bennett: The voice, man, the voice!

* (as of 5 years ago) Garth Brooks: Started listening to country in earnest; everything I liked was by Garth, or John Michael Montgomery.

* Jefferson Aiplane: Accept no later incarnations.

* Also: Scott Joplin, Ludwig v. Beethoven, W.A. Mozart, F.J. Haydn, G.F. Handel, Debussy, Steve Reich, Leo Kraft.

* The late, great Dave Van Ronk.

I forgot these folks:

* Rodgers and Hart/Rodgers and Hammerstein: Best of the early musical theater writers.

* Stephen Sondheim: The best, period.

* Steeleye Span: Turned me on to traditional folk from a skewed perspective in a BIG way.

* Harry Chapin: I still kick myself about this: I auditioned for Harry many, many years ago, and he wanted me for his backup band--he was just about to sign on to the record company--and I <smacks own forehead> turned it down. I had just been accepted into college and wanted to go. I still remember playing with him at his brother's film production office....

* Jerry Goldsmith: Great, interesting film composer. Rarely does the same thing twice. I wish I could say that.

* Billy Joel: Sure he can't keep a car on the road, but man can he write and sing songs.

* Hendrix, of course.

* Edgar Varese.

That should do it...for now.

Steven

Steven,

John Hall is a JPF award winner and played at our NAMM Showcase last year that we did with Singer Magazine. He's a great guy.

Brian

That's kind of a tough question considering I'm inspired all the time by ll kinds of people. Sometimes just a small part of a song inspires me other times whole albums, etc. But here are just a few artists out of MANY that have inspired me or do inspire me:

THE BEATLES - Again, they are just standard for greatness. Not much to say about them.

NIRVANA- Great band I love with great lyrics. Really inspired me to be myself and not worry about image.

THE KINKS - Way underrated band! Amazing! i love them!

THE VINES - Many of you may not have heard of them, but they're a band that's out right now. They're fairly popular. Although they're hated by many people they are my favorite band at the moment. They inspired me to pick up the electric guitar. (Beatles were responsible for acoustic). Also inspired me to write abstract lyrics.

THE DOORS - I wasn't inspired by them until yesterday when I watched "The Doors" movie. I'm totally in love with them now (yes It is common for me to fall in love over night). I wrote a song today inspired by Jim's poetry. He was great.

VELVET UNDERGROUND - They are a great band. They were doing things no one else was doing at that time.

~Vee

oh yeah ...

I forgot to mention...

Paul Simon- especially the Graceland album

Rolling Stones--Most diverse

My Earliest Musical "Heros" go back to the Early 50's when I heard Burl Ives & Frank Sinatra for the first time. By the 60's I was buying Everly Bros, Elvis, & Bobby Darin, Buddy Holley & Jerry Lee Lewis 45's.
Then it was Beatles & Stones 33 1/3s..& on to Jeff'son Airplane, LOTSA Hendrix, Byrds, Dylan, Buffy St. Marie, Cream/Clapton...Aretha, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles..Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Marty Robbins...Dave Brubeck, Nancy Wilson, Ramsey Lewis, LOVED Hank Mancini w/Johnny Mercer's Lyrics...& can't forget Joe Cocker, Jackson Browne, & The Kinks from those late 60-Early 70's either!

Was in Europe 5 years 'til '73..Missed the US Music Hits, but we had Pink Floyd all over the Place. Forgot Simon & Garfunkel, Kris Kristofferson, Shel Silverstein, The Supremes, Jackson 5, Sly & Family Stone, Led Zepplin...all biggies.

Back in the USA, 70-80's think it was The Eagles, CSN&Y, Bread, 3 Dog Night, Bonnie Raitt, Elton & Bernie
80's are a Blur, but met the Gap Band in L.A....Bobby Brown, Prince, think Hank Jr. was workin' Airwaves a lot, Billy Joel, Eagles, Jimmy Buffett, Heart, Chicago, Gloria Estefan, etc.
90's I start forgettin' Names....Def Leppard, GNR, Nirvana, Donna Summer (Mighta been '80's?), Cher, Amy Grant, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson if I forgot him earlier...Garth Brooks..Lyle Lovett
More Recently: REM, EMINEM, White Stripes, Vines, Beyonce, Christina Aguilera, Tim & Faith, Travis Tritt.

Know I mix up Artists with Writers a lot..heh...but ANY Song that I've heard that I like influences What I Come Up With Nowadays! "20" is Too-Confining--"40" is More Like It, Influence-Wise!

Thanks for Stimulatin' the Gray Matter!
Big Guy-Hug,
Stan

1. Elton John/Bernie Taupin - Music that has spoken to me on a consistant level for over 30 years.
2. Peter Gabriel - As mentioned in earlier posts, when combined w/ Daniel Lanois, musical magic.
3. Van Morrison - Beautiful.
4. Pat Metheny - Taught me so much about speaking 'w/out words.'
5. Keith Jarrett - See #4.
6. The Beatles - Wrote THE template on being a band & creating groundbreaking rock & roll/pop music.
7. Beethoven - An absolute musical giant whose musical creations were the result of many drafts before it was 'perfect.'
8. Mozart - A seemingly antithesis to Beethoven. It was 'perfect' upon arrival!
9. George Winston - Masterful piano technician, affected my playing at a complete level. Have you heard his guitar? Just like his piano!
10. Van Halen w/ DLR! - As mentioned earlier, DLR was THE frontman for this group. With him, Rock & Roll was awesome AND fun!


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"Don't forget to dance." The Kinks

• JavaMusiK

Eddie was the only reason to listen to Van Halen. DLR was the only reason to watch them. They WERE fun!

Yes, w/out Eddie, there would be no VH. However, I found VH III to be rather beyond my enjoyment level.
Interestingly, they are touring this summer w/ Red. Still wish the the original lineup could just get along...

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"Don't forget to dance." The Kinks

• JavaMusiK

1. Queen: for Freddie's vocals & the variety of songs they put out, from ballads to roaring rockers to playful

2. Led Zeppelin: they too had the ability to rock like mad, then there was that beautiful acoustic side.

3. Kate Bush: that voice. that imagination.

4. Tori Amos: that voice. that emotion.

5. Elton John: such great melodies, and another voice that's always done it for me

6. Radiohead: amazing, astounding, potent

7. Joe Jackson: witty and smart, great pop tunes and gorgeous ballads

8. Ben Folds: see Joe Jackson

9. Pink Floyd: deep dark moods

10. R.E.M.: a common thread here: diversity in mood & sound, great vocals

Honorable mentions:
Pulp, Jeff Buckley, Bruce Springsteen, Bonnie Raitt, Tears for Fears, Travis, Thomas Dolby, Blondie, Crowded House, Cracker

I know I'm forgetting dozens!

------------------
Marian Mastrorilli
mastrose@aol.com
http://www.projectmercury.net

Marian,
Tory Amos!!!!!!
How in the world could I forget to mention her! Powerful lyrics, and voice.!.. No FEAR. Got to love that. She actually pulled of an Emenem (sp?) lyric! Better than he did IMHO.
Also one that is totally missing the list (yeah I know she's a new commer)... NORA JONES !!! Perfect simplicity!

Ah yes....Kate Bush! Where has she been lately?
Norah Jones is a very good fit too, as is Tori Amos. I just love female singers!

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"Don't forget to dance." The Kinks

• JavaMusiK

It's nice to list "favorites"..

I think the thread called for artists that "influenced" us.

That's alot more telling, in my opinion.

I for instance have greatly enjoyed certain aspects of Bowies schtick...but did he influence me...no..I don't think so.

Norah Jones....well...she's OK, I guess..but a major influence ?.....hmmmmmm
I don't think I'd look good in those clothes....

Bob

Hey ya'll-

I love reading these responses-

I've loved music as long as I can remember and I've tended to go thru phases where I get really heavily into a band or sound,but these are the few I just can never get out of my system:
First off- U2 - their music is heavy,tough, and beautiful and their lyrics always express a viewpoint. I was seven when I first heard them and love them still. I do miss hearing Larry Mullins old up front drum sound.

Jeff Buckley- I can't think of any artist who creates the kind of atmosphere with music like he does. He reminds me to keep it real and honest and creative when I write.

Dave Matthews Band- When I get tired of hearing everything their music for some reason always leaves me satified- makes me think of eating a good Cajun jambalaya.

Garth Brooks- To me he is a lesson in profesionalism. Whatever he does he gives it all- I have supreme respect for him trying to keep his family together after his fame started taking it's toll.

I was really influenced by Clapton and Page while I was learning guitar but for some reason I don't really get into them much anymore, but I'm sure the influence remains.
Good luck to all
Mike

I agree with Bob on this one. It's way more interesting to hear about artists who impacted how you write or perform songs than just who you most like to listen to. I expected to see more obscure artists listed than we've seen here so far because in my own case, the artists I like the most are different than the ones that affected how I write or perform songs. When I first started writing music, the artists who influenced me most were the aritsts of that time period that I imitated. Some are still popular, some aren't. Almost no one will say they don't love the Beatles, but I honestly expect to find that many of the folks here who started writing music after the mid 70's would more likely be influenced by artists who themselves were influenced by the Beatles, rather than directly. And if you started writing in the 80's or 90's or are just starting this century, then it seems even more likely that contemporary artists are influencing you more than perhaps the Beatles or other standard artists from the 60's and 70's.

So don't be shy. If you have less obvious or popular influences, lay them on us.. they don't have to be the list of "best" artists of all time.. just those who influenced you.

Brian

Ok, some of the more obscure ones that I feel had an impact:

1. Jason Faulkner Was in the Jellyfish and The Greys. Coolest Song - "Running with the Animals". A very hip groove in 5/4.

2. Jon Brion Was also in the Jellyfish and The Greys. Wrote and produced things like Fiona Apple, and the Magnolia Soundtrack. Anything he touches is absolutely genius, but he's a crackpot to boot.

3. Seth Horan A fellow JPF'r. His notwithstanding CD is a melodic joy and a bass play-land. I really dig the whole damn thing. But where did he go?

4. Badlands More for the guitar playing a Jake E Lee after he came off working for Ozzy. Flat out killer blues-metal. Reckless abandon. 3 Day Funk is super cool.

5. Billy Squire Greasey pop/rock with killer melodies. My Kind of Lover is straight up pop perfection.

6. The Cars Long before I ever thought of playing an instrument I used to think how cool it would be to be in that band. Totally eclectic material, yet people loved it. The most daring thing I think they did: "Moving in Stereo".

7. Cat Stevens Is likely the main reason I like to play acoustic guitar so much. His easy going pop sense never really filtered in, but his acoustic sense did.

8. Chris Whitley A man with a blues style to himself. Totally in a class by himself. Living with the Law is a must own album. But he's certainly an aquired taste. I explored a lot of open tunings because of this cat. The persons who got me into him: Chad Wolfenbarger and Kim Lidard.

9. The Mustard Seeds When I first moved to LA they were the hardest working band I had ever seen. Great group of guys. I learned massive amounts about writing by just watching them play. Matt Bissonette is an amazing writer and bassist.

10. Dan Gilbert Is probably one of the best guitar players I've ever seen on the planet. The man can play anything in any style at the drop of a hat. I learned so much about knowing music from him. Funny thing is, I know I made an impression on him right back. I was one of his most un-ruly students. He still remembers me to this day.

10a. Steve White Another blues player in a class by himself. I met him through a JPF event in San Diego. This guy is why live playing is a the way to experience music. I hope I've learned something about holding a crowd's attention from him.

There's a pretty obscure list. Some of them you may have heard of, some of them you likely haven't.

Jody

[This message has been edited by Whitesides (edited 05-21-2004).]

Thanks Jody, that's a great list and I'll check some of those folks out. If anyone else has previously posted a list and wants to add some lesser known influences, please do. We all realize the Beatles, Dylan and (fill in the icon of your choice here) have influenced most of the music that came after them.. but who else influenced you that we might learn from or find interesting as well!

Brian

influences:

For subject matter: Woody and Bruce
For lyrical craft and playfulness: Ira
For vocal performance: Patsy
For minimal guitar accompaniment: (early) Bob
When it's time to rock out: Chuck
When it's time for a beer: Hank
When it's time for the blues: Muddy
When performing with a band: NRBQ
The inspiration to start at all: John,Paul, George and Ringo

OK, I guess my last post made me sound like a rabid fan.. So I'll do the longer version.

Tory Amos. Both Tory and Trent Resner (NINE INCH NAILS) reached me at the same time, so I put them in the same influence basket. Before hearing Tory and Trent my lyrics were cryptic. My lyrics were much like Jim Morrison (Doors) and Billy Holliday. The problem there was that I grew tired of folks saying this person really meant this or that, with almost no one person agreeing. I was afraid to attack dark and taboo subjects exactly the way I presieve them, and in the words I wanted to use. These folks influenced me to say exactly what I wanted to say in exactly the manner I wanted. After all, nothing quite says it like "I want to f**k you like an animal" (Trent). Can't mistake that for anything other than exactly what was said!

Nora Jones. While a new influence on me (no I never stop growing musicaly) Nora has had a profound impact, and influence on my music. Before Nora I was always striving to make complex l music, much like the impact Charly Parker had with Billy Holliday. Nora made me realize that I would be better served having fun creating simple, yet fun inergetic music. Instead of spending hours comming up with that killer secondary melody, I have fun, and enjoy what Im doing. Like I said.. "Simplicity.. what a consept!".

Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington
Charles Christopher Parker
John William Coltrane
Julian Adderley
Joe Henderson
Gustav Holst
Aaron Copland
Jean Sibelius
Eddie Palmieri
Eugene Bozza

Peace, Cb
http://www.BurnettMusic.com

It's hard for me to separate the two. Artists that I love can't help but influence me in my singing style mostly, and the types of songs I end up writing, or how I arrange them. I'll cite a few examples from my original list.

Queen: I'm convinced I learned to sing by singing along with Freddie. Albums like Night at the Opera featured a diversity of moods and I've strived to do that in my writing, live set lists, and my own CD.

Led Zeppelin: I have written songs that are in the vein of their style, not on purpose, just by osmosis.

Kate Bush: A definite influence in the vocals department. Early in my singing "career" I too sung more in my upper register, then thru the years have moved downward.

Tori Amos: WhenI first started listening to Tori, I was singing so much like her without realizing it. Thankfully I got away from that and felt the INFLUENCE but stopped IMITATING. Often we are so caught up in an artist that we love's sound that we duplicate it too closely.

And so on.



------------------
Marian Mastrorilli
mastrose@aol.com
http://www.projectmercury.net

I taught myself how to sing harmony by inventing the third part to every Everly Brothers record I heard.

That was over 40 years ago...you can still hear that in my singing today !

Eddie Cochran...one of the first white guys to try and imitate black blues singers by "snarling"
I picked it up from Eddie all those years ago..I still do it.

I liked Chuck Berrys rhythm playing..he played lots of 5 and 6 string chords with alot of chunga chunga....I still do that today !

Ernest Tubb...you could understand every word...
I try to do that every time I sing..

Roy Buchanan..made every note on the guitar a "word"...I hope to be able to do that someday..You can hear me trying !

John Prine....I wrote my first song trying to be as good as him...
I'll write my next one the same way !

Those are some of the things that curled up inside of me a very long time ago !

Bob



[This message has been edited by bob young (edited 05-22-2004).]

Great posts folks. To me this is far more interesting than just "these are the obvious artists who influenced music globally" type of lists. I like how Bob put it into perspective and explained the specific things it causes him to do with his music. Very interesting.

Anyone else?

Brian

The Beatles (60’s): Words can’t really express the impact this band has had on not only me, but every music fan. Magical Mystery Tour was the first record I bought and the songwriting of Lennon and McCartney influenced me greatly.

Dylan (60’s-00’s): Without Dylan, I’d still be trying to think up of a cool user name for this board. Though he certainly lost a lot of cool points with me after I saw him on that Victoria’s Secret add; his impact is immeasurable.

Connor Oberst (2000’s): A newer artist out of Omaha, Nebraska, also known as Bright Eyes, which is essentially Connor and a ton of guest musicians. Connor’s complex lyrics and brilliant melodies are fantastic.

The Smiths (1980’s): Morrissey is basically carrying me through my senior year of high school. The Smiths are a great band that has been ignored by most of the mainstream.

Death Cab For Cutie (90’s-2000’s): Lyricist Ben Gibbard and guitarist/producer Chris Walla are one of the greatest songwriting teams around right now. Gibbard’s brilliant and reflective lyrics have also carried me through some tough times.

Radiohead (90’s-2000’s): Completely changed the boundaries of songwriting and studio recording. Though their lyrics aren’t always as impressive as their music, they are still an incredibly talented band. OK Computer is one of my favorite albums

Steely Dan (70’s): One of my first childhood memories is singing along to do it again, with my cousin, Jack. A couple of years ago I found my parents version of Aja on vinyl, and have been a big fan ever since.

Counting Crows (90’s): Adam Duritz was one of the first songwriters who wrote lyrics that I could completely relate too. There first three CD’s are always in rotation in my stereo.

The Velvet Underground (60’s): I used to think I knew a lot about music, then I heard the Velvet Underground and Nico. How could I have missed this band, I thought. Heroin still sounds like the end of the world and Sweet Jane is a great pop-rock anthem.

Barenaked Ladies (90’s): They got me out of my pretentious period and taught me that music can be fun and still be relevant. Though their newer stuff is not as impressive as their older material, check out Gordon and compare it with Everything to Everyone. They are still kicking.

Ben Folds Five (90’s): Because of Song for the Dumped, all his other stuff is great but has there ever been a better song written about heartbreak?

The Beach Boys (60’s): Because I love Pet Sounds, think Brian Wilson is a genius and because I still looking forward to the release of Smile.

Mike


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Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery;
None but ourselves can free our minds.
Bob Marley

YEs, Brian I have a list to offer.

This list is comprised of both songwriters who have been around a while, as well as the younger ones. And some indie songwriters I've found and fell in love with on CDbaby.

Paul Simon: love the guitar. love the lyrics.

Joni Mitchell: That voice! WOW. We need to hear more female singers like that. and this one also gets 4 thumbs up on guitar and lyrics. very poetic. yummy.

Bob Dylan: I don't listen to him as much as Joni and Paul, but I know his influence and respect him deeply.

Loudon Wainwright III: I wish I was a "the third." All around songwriting. Lyrical approach is unique, and I envy it.
Also, I think "Last Man on Earth" is my favorite of his albums. Better than a dead skunk. ha ha.

Leonard Cohen: Another great poet. Tasty lyrics.

Rufus Wainwright: Dude. I love this guy's use of orchestral texture. Very big, sometimes to the point of flamboyancy, but oh well IT'S MUSIC. And his melodies are especially tasty.

Gary Jules: Man I dig his style. "DTLA" and "no poetry."(my fave songs) Good stuff.

Jim Bianco: Neat guy. Nice, gruff voice a la Tom Waits??? maybe, I dunno. Need to find out more about this guy. Seems very cool. Currently trying to learn his song "Dimes."

Tom Waits(w/ wife Kathleen): Okay, this guy's lyrics just crack me up. I love the bizarre subject matter, And it's so freakin' raw, I can't help but love it. PErhaps an acquired taste? Mule Variations and Bone Machine are the two albums that do it for me.

Timothy Hill: I am fascinated by Overtone singing, and that's part of the reason why I got into this guy. He also writes some good songs

Gavin Degraw: He's got mad notes. For days.

Chuck Coleman: Another young pianist I admire. Wish I could play piano well!

Ben Folds: Speaking of piano. His spastic playing on the uptempo songs countered by more delicate playing is what does it for me.

The Beatles: Like, DUH!

Beach Boys: Cool harmonies and melodies. Pet Sounds.

Jeff Buckley: A beautiful soul gone too early. AMAZING voice. I want those pipes.

........

I'm sure there's tons more influences, but I think I'm gonna stop with Mr. Buckley. Thanks Brian! Great topic generator.

Best,

Dan
p.s. Billy Joel is pretty good, too!

[This message has been edited by danjjohnson999 (edited 05-22-2004).]

[This message has been edited by danjjohnson999 (edited 05-22-2004).]

Good points all, Bob (been awhile, huh?) but I must say Norah Jones has been an influence on me recently (beyond the clothes even ) in her minimalist style of playing. Many of us could gain from that. I know I have. Her fills are very tastefully played & show a maturity far beyond her young age.

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"Don't forget to dance." The Kinks

• JavaMusiK

Here are some of my favorite influences and/or people I admire in music.

Know that my perspective is definitely colored by the fact that I'm a female rock vocalist in a psychedelic rock band:

1 Janis Joplin
Of course, how could I not begin with Janis... for me it all begins and ends with the vibe this woman created in the 1960's psychedelic rock scene

2 Paul McCartney (in particular)
His lead vocals on 'Helter Skelter' are in my opinion some of the best rock vocals ever recorded
The Beatles (in general): need I explain?

3 Jorn Lande: this is a personal pick for me. Jorn is a metal/progressive rock vocalist from Norway. He's toured with some fairly well known acts and has a big following in Europe.. I had the chance to watch him record an album at one point and watching this man sing taught me so much about how to approach studio recording. It was like taking a master class in rock vocals. Thanks Jorn.

4 Grace Slick: Jefferson Airplane in it's early days took Woodstock and the San Francisco scene by storm and Grace Slick's sound was so psychedelic

5 Steve Perry: ok, ok, I know he's always got alot of bad 80's reverb washing him around, but Steve voice was the first that made me love rock.

6 Joni Mitchell: "they paved paradise and put up a parking lot!"

7 Karen Carpenter: such a pure and lovely sound...

8 Judy Garland: no one could sell a tune quite like Judy.

9 Madonna: She's not necessarily an artistic model for me...but a powerful illustration of a modern media manipulator/businesswoman constantly reinventing herself

10 Bette Midler: only The Rose

Peace,
Christine
The Drop Band
www.dropband.com

You know what? It's not necessary to apologize for liking Steve Perry. It is certainly true that silly bands like Journey are easy targets, but Steve Perry could sing his butt off. I used to enjoy him, in spite of Journey, and in spite of his somewhat-obvious Sam Cooke routine.

In the 50's my earliest musical influence was;
(1)- JOHNNY MATHIS,,,,if a VOICE was ever a beautiful INSTRUMENT it was his. I learned so much about singing from him.
(2)-RICK NELSON,,,,,,the best ROCKER ever, least impressed by his own success and father of modern day Country Rockers.
(3)-BUCK OWENS,,,,,My Uncle played him to death and he made Country Music Kool (along with help from HARLAND HOWARD & DON RICH)!
(4)-GARY PUCKETT (of the Union Gap) Johnny Mathis talent in a Pop-Rock setting WOW!
(5)-GLEN CAMPBELL without a doubt put Country Music on the Map,,,,tremendous voice, guitar ability & recognized talented songwriters like the incredible JIMMY WEBB.
(6)-MAC DAVIS,,,, prolific Country singer/songwriter who had dynamite songs with the simplest chords. My first influence as a songwriter.
(7)-DAVID GATES/BREAD,,,, Tremendous influence on my songwriting,,,,,,no one set the "mood" better musically,,,,,or was more poetic lyrically or more original in style.
(8)-JIM CROCE,,,,,died far too young and I mourn the songs we never got to hear. Nobody got more out of 2 acoustic guitars onstage and nothing else. LOVERS CROSS is a prime example of that "sound".
(9)-JOHN DENVER,,,,,he had more of an impact on me, than anyone. Singer/songwriter/storyteller extraordinaire.
Also a unique guitarist evident on songs like; BOY FROM THE COUNTRY the haunting music still sends my heart soaring, died far too young.
(10)-ORLEANS,,,,,,JOHN HALL & LARRY HOPPEN,,,Performers/songwriters/instrumentalists and UNIQUE stylists of Reggae-Rock (You gotta REACH-a little bit higher,,,,,,,)
(11)-KAREN & RICHARD CARPENTER,,,,,Exquisite arrangements,,,,song choices,,,,,multi-overdubbing abilities,,,,,,harmonies,,, their genius was never fully appreciated.
(12)-MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER,,,,,phenomenal songwriter/lyricist/performer,,,,incredible ability to interchange songs from "Up-Tempo" to ballad & give them each a different life.
(13)-EAGLES,,,,,greatest Country Rock band ever,,,,,,,,who can crossover to Hard Rock,,,,Pure Country,,,,,Easy listening,,,,Pop,,,,,,,etc. etc.

I'd have to say that Steve Perry has pretty much been my biggest influence. He and Robert Plant.

the list is like this : the 60's were the beatles. the 70's ccr, the 80's the police and the 90's nirvana, but now as i begin writing
for me it is kristofferson, tom waits,cash, nrbq, i like todd snyder too.they showed me how to keep it real...barn.

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http://www.soundclick.com/bands/7/barkinbarney.htm

Wow, great thread! My list (most of them are relative "newbies" I guess):

1. Mary Chapin Carpenter -- she has taught me so many things. That I want to write thoughtful songs. That simple words can have the most profound impact. That girls play guitar, too. That you can carry yourself and your career with integrity and bring joy to so many.

2. Susan Gibson - a JPF'er. I saw her live my freshan year in college and after that I have not stopped writing (I'm a first year senior now, hehheh). She's a brilliant human being and a brilliant songwriter. http://www.susansongs.com

3. Kristyn Osborn - she's in the country group Shedaisy, who often get knocked for being too "pop" or Dixie Chick copycats, but if you delve into Kristyn's words (she does all their songwritng), wow. She's amazing, one of the best out of Nashville lately. Check out heir "Knock on the Sky" album.

4. Kris Delmhorst - she's just good. A Boston folkie who should be more popular -- she has lines that will lift you up and break your heart.

5. Dar Williams - she's more "complex" verbally that most, and that's why she's so cool.

6. Patty Griffin - Patty has a soaring voice and the gift of melody, and her songs are beautiful and simplistic but so deep.

7. Shawn Colvin - Well, she just kicks butt. Her career speaks to that. She does things on her own terms.

Others:
Lucy Kaplansky, Tori Amos, Kasey Chambers, Terri Hendrix, John Mayer, and those who inspired these guys, like Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, and of course, Dylan.

Wow! Interesting topic! Mine are below:

1. Doyle Lawson: His musical style affected me greatly in the 80's. It really made me want to return to my first love, the mandolin. His tight harmonies and arrangements also changed my way of making music.

2. Don Williams: I used to wear his tapes out in teh car, playing them and singing along with them. I like the still smoothness in his voice and the simple way he maneuvered his words.

3. Ricky Skaggs: HIs impact on me when I first got interesting in really learning to play music, ultimately paved the way into greater things as a musician and singer.

4. Jim Reeves: Another smoothie, Jim could croon with the best. His vocal style, even smoother than that of Don Williams. Really gave me that smoothness in my voice.

5. DEF LEPPARD: YES I KNOW, CRAAZY AIN"T IT! But it's true! I used to listen to them constantly, their arrangements and tight harmonies, as well as their musicianship influenced me a great deal in the 80's. It is because of them that I was able to keep my "High Lonesome" bluegrass vocals in the high range. From DON to DEF, that is my range today. Really I can't get that low, hehhe.

6. The "Brothers" bands: I am using this slot to represent: The Louvin Bros., The Osborne Bros. as well as, Jim and Jesse McReynolds. Their vocals and writing have influenced me greatly. When I first began singing and pickin' I was singing their songs!

7. My Family: Finally; last but in now wya the least, my parents influenced me tremendously. I come from a "musical" family, my parents have been singing and playing since before I was born. My family has a musical heritage that spans back four generations. There was and is always some music going on in our households. It is that gift of music that God has blessed my family with and I am very thankful for it!

So these are my 7 most influentials, actually more than 7 when you figure up all the family and brother bands and such. But that is the gest of it. Great topic, enjoyed reading everyones.

1. Frank Zappa: for teaching me that content does and doesn't matter, and for stretching the bounds of recording technology (Pygmy Twilite)
2. Ian Anderson: for increasing my appreciation of counterpoint and metric change in mid stanza (A Passion Play)
3. Gary Brooker: for teaching me the importance of space in recording (Nothing But the Truth)
3. Jeff Beck/Roy Buchanan: for teaching me that a few notes, played well, mean more than all the triplets you can play fast ('Cause We've Ended as Lovers)
4. Peter Gabriel: for making Genesis happen (Supper's Ready)
5. John Entwistle: for making the bass a lead instrument (The Real Me)
6. Ian Hunter: for reminding me that rock'n'roll is supposed to be fun (Marionette)
7. Keith Moon: yes, even drummers can be stars! (all of Quadrophenia)
8. Freddie Mercury: God, what a voice! (Brighten Rock)
9. Steve Marriot: just for being there when we needed you (30 Days in the Hole)
10. Jimi Hendrix: for everything!

ONE NAME


EMINEM

ok i see what u r saying brian
ella fitzgerald, billie holiday they both have had an extreme impact on how i sing...people that have impacted on my writing have been artists that arent afraid to try something different. this goes all the way back to parliment in the 70's to recent artists like kelis, the neptunes (N.E.R.D), missy elliot. i have also adopted the neo classic soul that alicia, angie stone, jill scott, vivian green have come with...let me not forget the earthy tone of people like india.irie and erykah badu(who also knows how to be street) I have to say I am probably a crazy mix of all of this people. needless to say this makes placing myself in particular style a bit difficult...yet fun.

To the best of my thoughts at the moment, here's the top ten influences for me (other than the Beatles, Peter Gabriel, Jellyfish and other mentioned already)

1. Larry Norman - after first seeing him in 1976, he's been a huge influence in my songwriting and singing style. His lyrics were so down to earth, yet with deep meaning and thought behind them. If only I could write like that...
2. David Lindley - a multi-instrumental wizard. Also a huge influence and like Larry, he's so down to earth you can have a decent conversation with him.
3. Andreas Vollenweider - also for his multi-instrumental skills and uplifting (mostly) instrumental music.
4. Mark Knopfler (the Local Hero soundtrack specifically) - amazing melodic guitar, and a great storyteller as well in his other work.
5. King Sunny Ade - who cares what he's singing about - I don't understand the Yoruba language, just listen to the music! You'll get happy.
6. Bob Marley - for his "spiritual" insight and great arrangements, whether love song or political in nature
7. Earl Scruggs Revue - also a favorite for years - the first great blend of banjo, bluegrass and rock instruments.
8. Tiny Tim & Cliff Edwards - both great uke players and characters that had a wealth of knowledge in regard to Tin Pan Alley-era music (Cliff was the voice of Disney's Jiminey Cricket)
9. Adrian Belew - for being weird and making elephant, bird and rhino sounds with his guitar.
10. Phil Keaggy - a well-versed guitarist, amazing on both acoustic and electric.

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Tom Tracy
www.soundclick.com/tomtracy