John Puckett – Musical Entertainer
I have been performing as an acoustic soloist for over thirty years. While entertaining at both public and private venues, I have usually focused on playing the fun and familiar songs that my audiences love and recognize. But there has always been a songwriting side of me that few people know.
Without question, my greatest passion in life has been the process of composing and recording original music. Starting with just the seed of an idea and taking it to the point where ultimately, it can be heard and enjoyed by others is the most rewarding and creative work that I can accomplish.
Early in my career, I began submitting songs to songwriter competitions, primarily to get feedback about my music. Happily, I was awarded top honors in two of these major competitions, “American Idol Underground” and “The Music City Song Festival,” where two of my songs made the Top 10. I got some really cool prizes and self-reassurances for that work! So, I have been writing and recording since then!
Over the years, I have been very inspired and influenced by such artists as Dan Fogelberg, Todd Rundgren, Joe Walsh, and of course, The Beatles. Most of my music would probably be considered “acoustic rock,” although I have also dabbled with folk and Celtic styles. I have always put great effort into my lyric writing, as I enjoy sharing a message or story in most of my songs.
Over the past few years, I have been making the annual trip from Pittsburgh to Florida each season to perform around the state. My dear friend and community liaison, Aimee Garay, often encouraged me to consider entering the “Trop Rock” or “Coastal Americana” scene, which is really thriving in Florida and around the globe. One night Aimee took me Sarasota to see “Sunny Jim” James White perform. I was incredibly impressed with both the man and his music and was immediately hooked on the genre!
Since I was already considering recording a new album of originals, I thought it would be fun to try something different. I began writing songs about my experiences while enjoying the amazingly beautiful state of Florida. And throughout my life, my favorite place to visit has always been any kind of coastal or beach area, so the songs came quickly and easily.
I am happy to present this new collection of songs on the CD entitled “Tropability,” a play on the word “probability.” For me, it meant taking a chance in life and trying something new – a change of scenery, meeting new friends, playing for new audiences, and trying my hand in a different musical genre. In other words, I rolled the dice, and I am glad that I did.
“Tropability” offers songs about anything from relaxing on the beach, surfing, and enjoying rum drinks at the Tiki bar to reflective love songs and ballads for both young and old. I’ve also expanded into previously unfamiliar musical territory with some reggae and Latin styles on this album. Within the first month of its release, five of the 12 songs on the album have found themselves in the Top 20 most requested songs on Tikipod Radio (www.tikipod.net). How fun is that?
I look forward to playing these songs live while touring Florida this year. I am also currently working on material for a second album called “Summer State of Mind.” I am confident that my listeners who enjoy “Tropability” will really enjoy the upcoming album as well!
I wish everyone abundant sunshine and many “happy hours!”