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Interview with Jeff Gunn
What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
I listed to Bruce Springsteen as a kid and later discovered my Dad’s records from the 60s. After hearing The Doors, Jimi Hendrix and other acts I knew I wanted to be a musician and perform.
What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
I like to exercise, read books and watch films. They all inspire my creativity.
How long have you been making music?
I have been playing music since I was 14. I learned 4 chords and started a band. One year later at age 15 I was playing my first gigs. I have played professionally for 30 years.
Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?
I am based in Toronto. The diversity of the city made for a great music education as I played in everything from Reggae Bands to Eastern European folk music bands growing up.
Tell me about your most memorable shows, if you haven’t played live what is your vision for a live show?
Some of the most memorable shows I have played were Ringo Starr’s Birthday Concert 2017, the United Nations, War Child Concert in London, UK (opened for Mumford & Sons, Ellie Goulding, Emile Sande), The Dresden Peace Prize Award Show, Glastonbury, the Xavier Rudd Australian Tour (opener), Dalai Lama One World Peace Concert, Jimmy Kimmel’s Italian Feast of San Gennaro, and opening for Peter Gabriel at the Roseland Ballroom in NYC.
What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?
My favorite place so far was OmniLife Stadium in Guadalajara, Mexico and Capitol Records in LA.
If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?
I would open for any of the following groups on tour Coldplay, U2, Dave Matthews Band, M83, Peter Gabriel.
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into making music and some advice that you would give to your younger self?
Write original music and keep working towards your bigger goals. Patience and perseverance pays off. I did not play huge festivals or arena/stadium shows until I was in my 30s and 40s.
Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?
I like to perform One Life because it speaks to the importance of the moment and the impermanence of all things in life.
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
Beginnings, Spiritus Momentous (Never Give Up Opus 2) feat Koi Anunta and Mike Sleath, Hip Hopesque feat Bibi McGill, Japan II feat Koi Anunta and Mike Sleath
What is your creative process, and what inspires you to write your music?
When creative ideas come to be a improvise with them and record snippets of ideas. They may turn into a song. I also travel as much as possible and watch documentary films for inspiration.
Do you have messages that you like to get across in your music, if so please tell me about them?
I hope to bring joy to others through my music and the idea that if you continue to work towards your goals you can achieve your dreams.
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?
I am currently developing guitar-learning modules for a variety of companies. I also plan to continue to perform as I did this past summer in Tahiti and California. There will be more guitar workshops globally and performances coming soon!
How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?
They can visit and subscribe/follow the following:
YouTube Channel: gunnjeffrey
https://www.youtube.com/user/gunnjeffrey
Facebook: Jeff Gunn Musician/Author Artist Page
https://www.facebook.com/jeffgunnmusic
IG/Twitter: jeffgunn1
https://www.instagram.com/jeffgunn1/?hl=en
Website: www.jeffgunnmusic.com