WHILE MAKING A NAME FOR HIMSELF among the folk cognoscenti as the intense white guy from New Jersey, John was holding down a day job as a flower deliveryman, then spent two and a half years at Sing Out! Magazine. In 1986 he started performing full-time; in 1987, he released his first album, “I Know.” This helped establish him as a touring artist, and the next six records spread fame and fans further. Recent albums “After Yesterday” (1998) and “The Company You Keep” (2001) contain topical songs but also show a more personal side, reflecting the joys of fatherhood.
John’s latest album, “Old Futures Gone,”may well be his most realized recording. It takes an intriguing look at our unexpected present and tomorrows. With fresh stylistic turns and band-driven gentle grooves, the sound remains pure Gorka. . . his voice, melodies and lyrics riding on infectious, well-conceived arrangements. Lucy Kaplansky, Alice Peacock and soul singer Kathleen Johnson Join him on guest vocals.
Rolling Stone calls John Gorka “the preeminent male singer/songwriter of the New Folk Movement”. He’s always been a favorite at the Me&Thee. Come see why this is, in our great listening room.
$18
Listening to John Gorka sing, one can get goosebumps all over. There are many reasons — fresh lyrics, a stunning emotional baritone voice, his twisted humor — but to focus on one limits the experience. New York Times
I consider myself to be an aspiring folk singer, not an accomplished one. I think of modern folk music to be more of an attitude or an approach than a musical style. Folk music is music that makes a difference in people’s lives and one that finds a useful place. And there is more than one way to get there. To make music that makes a difference is the ideal. I guess that is my mission statement, my musical manifesto. John Gorka
