Colors, Concepts, and Creativity with Jon McCormack

Are you a musician struggling to find your niche in the ever-evolving music scene? Gig Gab’s latest episode dives deep into the world of musical diversity and the power of embracing multiple genres. Host Dave Hamilton welcomes guest Jon McCormack, a versatile guitarist and songwriter known for his work with bands like Wizzardess, Museum of Science, Fly Spinach Fly, and Bitter Pill. Jon shares his journey from being a cover band snob to embracing the joy of playing diverse music styles. The episode explores the concept of the “hyphen era” in music, where genres blend and musicians find success in unexpected places. Jon and Dave discuss the importance of challenging oneself creatively, from concept albums to theatrical productions, and how these experiences shape a musician’s career. Listeners will gain insights into balancing original music with cover bands, the value of visual elements in live performances, and the evolving definition of success in the music industry. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode reminds us to “Always Be Performing” and embrace the diverse opportunities in music. Ready to expand your musical horizons? Press play on this inspiring episode of Gig Gab and discover how embracing diversity can elevate your musical journey. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 465 – Monday, January 20, 2025 January 20th: National Cheese Lover’s Day 00:02:08 Guest co-host: Jon McCormack from Wizzardess, Museum of Science, Fly Spinach Fly, Paintbox, Wheel of Awesome, Camarojuana, Order of Thieves, and Bitter Pill (among others!) 00:02:53 You don’t just listen to one thing! Growing up with Disco to The Beatles to The Beach Boys and Paul Simon and Cat Stevens and World Music Growing up with original bands being the norm 00:05:32 The 90s were the hyphen era Ska-Funk Funk-Jazz 00:09:09 Creating cover bands when you’re a cover band snob Turns out being in a cover band is fun The fun-to-work ratio is … more fun in a cover band! A one-off gig pretending to be an eighties hair-metal band: Camarojuana Spyder Von Manhadyn 00:14:48 The Power of a Persona MC Food Court 00:15:47 Wearing a costume is permission 00:17:50 SPONSOR: HelloBand, a fan engagement app that connects you with your fans while you’re on stage making it simple and effective to bring your live shows to the next level. GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off! 00:19:40 What covers were you learning as a kid? Rush, Yes, King Crimson… then Living Colour and other funk stuff And then came Van Halen and other eighties metal stuff 00:20:21 Taking lessons from the right people Randy Armstrong John Cutrone 00:25:07 In Danger of Being Discovered Thanks to Gravity Fly Spinach Fly Say Zuzu 00:27:17 Wheel Of Awesome at a local, small bar… is still great! A hang. A community. It’s all about being engaged 00:31:48 Dave played Whole Lotta Love 00:38:11 Back to hyphens: Paintbox, a concept album about paint colors And then it became a musical! 00:44:17 Gig Gab Outtro Follow Jon McCormack on Instagram Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Colors, Concepts, and Creativity with Jon McCormack – Gig Gab 465 appeared first on Gig Gab.