Today we’d like to introduce you to Jon David Finney.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I grew up with a strong blues influence, with classic rock always playing around the house. I gravitated heavily towards guitar at a young age. My parents wanted to support what they knew I was serious about, so at ten years old, I was given my first guitar and never put it down. I have always been inspired by SRV, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Clapton, John Mayer, etc… I fell in love with songwriting when I was 14, and have been writing ever since. I grew up with so much support from my family. When I was 18, I was frustrated that I wasn’t getting any bookings and had to pay for my car, so I expressed the need to get a full-time job to cover costs, and my mother stopped me and said “Don’t take on anything that will stand in the way of you chasing after your dreams.” That’s just how they were. I’m now able to support my family by playing music full time because my mother wouldn’t let me quit.
Please tell us about your art.
I am primarily a singer/songwriter. I’m a lead guitarist as well, so a lot of my stuff is guitar driven. There is a strong country influence in my songs, but I wouldn’t say I’m limited to any one specific genre. I try to write stuff that relates to the masses while telling my own stories. I’ve also grown up in church and currently lead for a church in Mont Belvieu called MercyGate Church. We have launched three songs and are currently working on a live worship record. I hope that no matter what song or project people stumble upon, they walk away feeling like they are not alone. I write songs about facing pain head-on as a part of the healing process, instead of numbing it or ignoring it. If you can face the pain, you can beat it. Even if it doesn’t feel it at the moment. That’s always a message I hope people can take away from my music.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
Create because you love it. I learned that when I made it about money, I hated it. I do it because I love it. And when you truly love something, people notice it and support it. I’m willing to pay for a less beautiful painting that the artist poured their whole heart into than I am a flawless painting someone painted out of obligation or for a paycheck.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I am on every major streaming platform, such as Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, etc… You can also find any music on my website, JonDavidFinney.com. My Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube are all @JonDavidFinney, and my facebook page is simply Jon David Finney. I’m not a “Please buy, don’t stream.” artist. If you can buy it, please do. If not, a stream and a listen means just as much to me. I just ask that whatever you choose, if you like it, share it with a friend. Music is beautifully bonding for people. In a concert or a song, whoever listens, it connects people, even if for a moment. And in a world of division, any type of unity is and should be welcomed.
Contact Info:
- Website: JonDavidFinney.com
- Email: Booking@jondavidfinney.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/JonDavidFinney
- Facebook: Facebook.com/JonDavidFinney
- Twitter: Twitter.com/JonDavidFinney
Image Credit:
Kelly Topping Photography
Jennifer Valentine Photography
Cameron Lieck
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