Featured Artist for July 2007!

Paul Johnson

From Paul:

I was born and raised in Christchurch, New Zealand. During my teens I played keyboards, bass and sang in youth bands and later progressed to writing, arranging and recording music for church congregational singing. After shifting to Nelson and seeking a wider musical appreciation and expression, I joined the Nelson Jazz Club. I played bass in the jazz workshops, with the band 'Jada' then joined the band Freewheelin' in 2005, with whom I currently play bass and sing.

My professional background is electronic engineering. While recording some demo tunes with one of my earlier bands, I became fascinated with studio engineering. I've since constructed two home studios over the years and am in the process of designing and building a third. I record jazz, rock and solo artists as well as my own material.

Of any instrument I've sought to learn, singing has been the most difficult by far. After various teachers and having almost given up, I discovered the Sing Your Life site. Chrys' methods have become the catalyst for me, freeing up my voice like I never believed possible.

The songs:

I wrote 'Mercy Mercy' during a time where I just needed to know the love and acceptance of my family, friends and God, in spite of my failings and shortcomings. My eldest son was in trouble and going through similar things, so I dedicated the song to him; 'Shannon's Song'.

Autumn Leaves was written by poet Jacques Prévert in 1945 and put to music by Joseph Kosma. Hearing it played so often as an upbeat swing or bossa, I decided to try my own hand at arranging it, seeking to underscore its sense of sadness and lost love.

Mercy Mercy- MP3 (Right click on link and click "Save Target As" to save to disk)

Autumn Leaves- MP3 (Right click on link and click "Save Target As" to save to disk)