Getting to know Johnny Chase
September 19, 2008
St. Peters
From his studio in St. Peters, singer/songwriter/musician Johnny Chase invites listeners to accompany him on a heartfelt journey.
Chase meshes lyrics and musical expression, using melody, tempo and tone to communicate sentiments. Sometimes mellow, sometimes edgy, his songs consistently convey spirited passion.
His music has a powerful 90’s sound, self-described as a little “grungy.” If you enjoy the Dave Matthews Band, Pearl Jam or that little group called the Beatles, you’re sure to love Chase’s music.
His authentic, soul-touching music was wrought by personal trials. His CD, titled 801 Days, refers to the number of days his son lived. The songs Son in the Sky, One More Day and On Top of the World are dedicated to him.
His son’s life has also seemed to establish a directional worldview for Chase. Realizing that life is short, he decided to give music a shot and “go ahead and try to do it.”
Chase started his musical adventure as a drummer, but later realized he needed a vehicle to document melodies as he was writing songs. He then focused on mastering the guitar. And he sure has—by using attention-getting riffs and catchy fan-favorites.
What about that powerful vocal ability? Chase admits it took lots of practice to work up the stamina. He said in the beginning, he would lose his voice early during a rehearsal. But now his voice is in top condition as he often endures four- to five-hour rehearsals and shows.
Chase’s résumé is getting attention from some major entertainment players. His songs have been preferred by the likes of MTV and HBO. By Your Side has been used by MTV for their show, NEXT. Fear to Fall has been featured on HBO’s Entourage, Season 3 promo spot and DVD. Fear to Fall has also been used by the CW/WB for the show CW Now.
Breakdown is featured in a Night Light Films movie, Fear Chamber. Check out the YouTube video of Chase’s contribution in the soon-to-be-released Fear Chamber DVD.
Giving credit to ichannel, a platform showcasing new musicians, Chase stated that it was through their website that an MTV representative heard his music.
Sometimes, his sister, Sarah Schniepp, vocally accompanies him during concerts. With influences such as Tori Amos and Sarah McLachlan, Schniepp’s style offers a female touch of 90’s sound, complementing her brother’s compositions exceptionally well.
In 1998, Chase formed the band, Astraflight, along with his sister. He said that he still performs with those band members from the early years, and knows them well.
Depending on the venue and expected audience, Chase may choose jazz musicians, musicians with blues tendencies or those with 90’s music styles for a specific performance.
But what high school did he attend? To satisfy the question everyone wants to know—Chase attended Fort Zumwalt South High School.
For more information, visit his website at www.johnnychasemusic.com.
Chase will be performing at Dardenne Prairie’s Prairie Days Festival on Saturday, September 20. It is sure to be a good time. Don’t miss it.
Other upcoming performances:
Monday, September 22, 2008
Mad Dog & Cats
8 p.m.
1005 Wolfrum Road
St. Peters, MO
Price: None
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Timber Creek
8:30 p.m.
Highway K and Highway 40
O’Fallon, MO
Price: None
Friday, September 26, 2008
Rizzo’s
8 p.m.
1155 Wentzville Parkway
Wentzville, MO 63385
Price: None
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Private Party
Monday, September 29, 2008
Mad Dog & Cats
8 p.m.
1005 Wolfrum Road
St. Peters, MO
Price: None
Copyright 2008 Neighbors About Town