Trading in his stock portfolio for the stage, John Pringle has taken the road less traveled after leaving his job on Wall Street to pursue his dream of music. Pringle is now constantly evolving his folk-rock take on honest storytelling. His life long admiration for songwriters Eddie Vedder and Bob Dylan is evident in his music today, in which traces of Vedder’s deep voice and Dylan’s defeatist lyrics echo throughout his every song. Pringle’s exciting journey now includes placements on shows including ABC Family’s hit series, The Lying Game, and connecting with his growing fan base through his love for playing shows, all as he continues to embark on the journey that is his passion. John recently took time from recording his next full-length album to give insight into the elements that make up his dramatic artist side.
What was your first memory of being exposed to music?
The first time I remember being struck by music and thinking it was special was listening to the Beatles with my mom, my best friend, and his mom on our way to Camp at Lookout Mountain. We were around 9 years old at the time. I immediately became a huge Beatles fan and spent my pre-teen years collecting all their albums. I think at a young age most folks pay attention to the melody of songs. I first began to examine lyrics around 14, when Pearl Jam’s TEN came out. It still blows my mind that I sometimes get to play and record with Dave Krusen, who was their first drummer and played on that album.
What signified the turning point that you wanted to pursue the career of an artist?
I really just wanted to write songs for a while. But it became apparent that I was writing very personal songs and just needed to get over my stage fright and perform them. I guess I decided to give it a go after Midnight Mass came out. I was working as a commodities broker with my dad and he sat me aside and told me I should give it a go. I was on the road for a solo tour in my truck two weeks later.
Who are the artists you feel had the most influence on your musical and writing style?
Eddie Vedder, for sure. I always respected his lyrics and presence. Also, I love Ryan Adams.
What’s one of your more memorable shows? Any favorite venues?
I guess my first CD release concert in Atlanta. Super sold out and the band & I really played well together even though we’d had minimal rehearsals. I also really enjoyed the shows here at Piano Bar. Opening for G Love in Central Park was cool, too. Even though I had severe nerve damage in my right hand and had to play through the pain.
What are the downsides to performing?
I really like to travel and play. It’s hard when you’re on the smaller venue circuit because of the places. The places always seem so cold to me before the folks show up. I always hate the waiting till I get to play.
Any rituals before performing?
The only ritual I have is to make sure EVERYTHING is working. [laughs] And that I have enough picks, strings, batteries, etc. I hate surprises while I’m playing.
What inspires you? Inspiration to either your writing or just on a personal level.
My family inspires me, and being in a new place as well. Before I settled down I was always on the move. And it’s hard not to write when all of your senses are being introduced to new things.
What is next on the horizon for you in music?
Current project is a new full-length album. Songs from Nashville to LA, so it’s around 14 tracks right now. Just have to [finish raising] the money.
Who are some of your current favorite artists?
Pearl Jam, Ryan Adams, David Gray, Mumford & Sons, Kings of Leon, Willie Nelson, Bob Segar, the Beatles, John Lennon, Nick Drake, Jesse Cole, DMB, Lisa Hannigan, The National, Wilco.
Pick the 5 albums you want with you on the proverbial desert island.
Pearl Jam, Ten
The Beatles, The White Album
Ryan Adams, Heartbreaker
Pink Floyd, The Wall
Dave Matthews Band, Under the Table and Dreaming
If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what do you see yourself doing?
I’d be a broker in NYC still. No doubt about it.
Interview & Editorial by Allie Krummel
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