John Ondrasik
Fans who don't know John Ondrasik may be more familiar with his band, Five For Fighting. The new album, Two Lights, has already soared on the charts with hit "The Riddle." It's John's inspiring words and uniquely capturing voice that make him a favorite of so many.
THE STAR SCOOP:
Your albums and songs have always been very personal - almost like
someone sharing a diary. How are you able to write such personal
thoughts, while at the same time knowing everyone will hear them?
JOHN ONDRASIK:
I try not to focus on reaction of the "listener" during the songwriting
process. Strangely enough it is easier to speak of one's sentiments and
worldview in song than in conversation.
THE STAR SCOOP:
Music has an endless amount of possibilities for style. How did you
come to develop your musical flair?
ONDRASIK:
The musical influences of course play a part. But the further down the
road I get I find non-musical influences, such as my father, my kids,
and voices outside of the music arena defining my songs. As go the
songs, goes the style.
THE STAR SCOOP:
How is "Two Lights" different from the work you've done before, but
also what elements are similar?
JOHN ONDRASIK:
It's a full fledge piano record (with the exception of 65 mustang). A
Piano record not only in the writing sense, but in the production realm
as well. As a father with two young kids it's no coincidence that a
major theme on this record is family, as well as some thoughts to the
world they will grow up in. There are a couple songs (Policeman's Xmas
Party, and California Justice) that might surprise those who know [Five For Fighting]
only from the radio...Still; at the end of the day...it's a guy grinding out songs.
THE STAR SCOOP:
Complete this sentence…"My name is John Ondrasik and you should know
that..."
ONDRASIK:
You should never try and pronounce "Ondrasik"...call me John.
THE STAR SCOOP:
We saw you studied math, so: Kids in school learn math, and everyone
always says it won't help you in the real world. How has math helped
you?
JOHN ONDRASIK:
Hey, that math degree can get me a real job when this whole music thing
goes up in smoke!
THE STAR SCOOP:
Somewhere there is a kid saying, “I want to have a career like John
Ondrasik of Five For Fighting.” Who was your role model as a beginning
musician?
JOHN ONDRASIK:
It's no surprise I grew up on bands like The Beatles, Queen, The
Who...and Piano players such as Billy, Elton, and Tom Waits etc...I
always admired the songwriting of Paul Simon, Randy Newman, Leonard
Cohen and numerous others...Still my role best role model was my Dad
who taught me early to work hard at what you do...and try and retain
your integrity whether in failure or success...I've been fortunate to
meet icons such as McCartney and Gretzky who personified class and
humility.
THE STAR SCOOP:
With I-pods, fans can choose specific songs to download without
purchasing your whole album. If you were to suggest they download one
song from your new CD, which would it be, and why?
JOHN ONDRASIK:
Policeman's Xmas Party...(just do it!)
THE STAR SCOOP:
What are you up to currently, and what's up next?
JOHN ONDRASIK:
Putting the band together for a tour this fall and shooting hoops with
the kids...See you on the playground...