I grew up musical family. My father was a very good piano player, and my mother came from a musical family. I moved to Madison, Wisconsin in 1978 to play in a band with some friends. Soon I was going to jam sessions, meeting other musicians. I was invited to play with many great musicians. Funk Drummer Clyde Stubblefield, and members of the band Garbage, a Steely Dan Cover band and others. I did a lot of sessions at Smart Studios, and then in my home studio.

I am a writer, singer, producer, keyboard and guitar player. I love to play with different people and enjoy various genres.

Sounds Like: Neil Young, Harry Chapin

Bio

I was born in 1958, I remember hearing the term "Rock & Roll" when I was a little kid. It sounded cool just from the name, kind of like a kids ride. As it turns out it's the ultimate kids ride. Like many of my generation, I saw the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show and that was it.

My father was a musician, he gave me the dream, the "music" gene, and later in his life lots of support. (He also use to call me funnel head.) It was my mother though that pushed me to take piano lessons, got me my first couple of guitars, and financed my first solo release, Emmettville's Down Home Town.

Growing up in the 60's and 70's influenced my musical values. I listened to Top 40 AM , where one DJ playing a song could could start something. Later it was Progressive FM radio, where you could hear anything and everything. So being able to play ones insturment, a good melody, meaningful lyrics, bell bottoms and long hair were part of my musical values. All but the last two are still part of me. I also got my first multi-track tape deck in the late seventies and writing and recording became a big part of my life.

I played in bands in High School, forming cherished musical relationships that still exist today. I moved to Madison, Wisconsin in 1979 and slowy started to work in other bands as well as an original band that would later be called The O'bros. I learned much. What to do, what not to do. I slowy learned to be a "front man", stealing a little from all the others I worked with. I played 4-5 nights a week and held down straight jobs.

I've had a good run so far, and lots of fun. I've got to open for some big names, play some amazing shows, even become a Know-It-All Boyfriend and a Slingback. Now it's all about writing, performing, and enjoying my musical life. I am not planning on becoming a rock star. I just want to make music I like, and share it with people who want to hear it. That's what I like about Broadjam, (my host).

So I hope you find some enjoyment in this music. If you do I'd love to hear from you.

Jay Moran