Keepin’ the streets at my feet
Jon has enjoyed busking on the streets, since he played Elvis songs on a beat up Levin acoustic guitar in Hampshire in the summer of 1978.
“I played music on the streets, long before I ever performed on any stage.. If I was playing The Albert Hall…I would still be found busking on the steps outside, during the interval..!”
Street performing is a unique way of connecting with people and sharing the music. I work hard on many music projects, but I’m never happier than when I’m busking the streets again. New opportunities and unexpected friendships happen when you play at street level; it’s hard work, but people are generous and they are most definitely a part of any success that comes my way. ‘Keepin’ the street at my feet’ is an important part of the honest, down-to-earth style of music that I write and perform and it always will be.
I have busked in many parts of the British Isles, Europe and America. However; nowadays, in-between gigs, I can be found busking the streets of Devon and Cornwall, with a more Celtic influenced acoustic folk / blues style
I like busking to be a creative experience, not just performing. When I set out for a day busking, I like to challenge myself creatively and play music that reflects the surroundings of the town I’m playing in. I also vary the instruments that I perform with; I rarely play a standard acoustic guitar these days at all, I’m generally found behind the strings of a Resonator Mandolin, Bottleneck Resonator, Bouzouki or Mandola… I’m currently on the look-out for a Dulcimer and a Hurdy Gurdy to add to the quirky mix…
I’ll see you out there; and as always, thanks for being part of the music.
