The trademark of singer/songwriter John Stano’s individual sound is a distinctive blend of acoustic guitar, harmonica and expressive vocals, developed over many years of performance and study. John plays six-string, 12-string and National steel slide guitar. John intertwines fine rack-style harmonica with adept fingerstyle guitar and vocals to create a full, textured sound. Initially self-taught, John went on to study American fingerstyle guitar at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music and harmonica with national blues legend, Jim Liban. ‘Sing Out’ compared John’s music to early Bob Dylan while ‘Dirty Linen’ was reminded of Country Joe McDonald. His style could be described as acoustic folk-blues or Americana as John’s influences also include urban blues, rock and beat poetry.
A skillful use of language adds spark to his lyrics. John Stano was a ‘Big Top Chautauqua Songwriter of the Year Finalist for 2010’ and performed his songs under the big top. His song ‘From A Rusty Cadillac’ was recently featured on NPR’s’ Car Talk.’ (Episode #1102) John took first place in the solo/duo category at the ‘Grafton Blues Challenge’ in 2011. As a result he performed at the ‘International Blues Challenge’ in Memphis on historic Beale Street in February, 2012. For more on John Stano, please check out JohnStano.com.