"I hope blues as a genre can continue to evolve while still staying true to its roots…if not it may become extinct over time."

Johnny Fink: Modern Twist to Old Sounds

Award winning blues band, Johnny Fink and the Intrusion announces the release of their long-awaited debut Cd entitled simply JFI (2017). JFI is the band’s first cd containing 9 original songs all written by band leader Johnny Fink. Johnny Fink and The Intrusion used to be known as the “Best Kept Secret in the Midwest Blues Scene” among local blues and classic rock enthusiasts. That was until they won the 2015 Cincy Blues society band challenge...and the made the semi-finals in the 2016 IBC in Memphis Tn. They were also finalists in the 2015 CEA entertainment awards for "best blues band".

Then Johnny himself won the 2016 Cincy Blues challenge in the "solo" category....and to top it all off, the band won the 2016 Dayton Ohio blues challenge. The band placed in the top 8 (of the world) in the 2017 IBC Finals…The secret is definitely out...

Interview by Michael Limnios

What do you learn about yourself from the Blues people and culture?

That I we all do what we do for the love of the music and the impact the music has on listeners.

What does the blues mean to you?

To me, it’s the simple feeling the music brings while listening or playing it.

What were the reasons that you started the Blues researches?

I started playing blues because the music hit me...still does.

How do you describe your songbook and sound?

A modern twist to old sounds with good story telling.

Which acquaintances have been the most important experiences?

I suppose all of them…but specifically all of the people I have met through our experiences at the IBC in Memphis.

What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Play what you feel.

Are there any memories from gigs, jams, open acts and studio sessions which you’d like to share with us?

Well playing in the 2017 IBC finals was pretty cool…a definite highlight.

What do you miss most nowadays from the blues of past?

I think a lot of today’s blues lacks a passion and authenticity that was more present in the past.

What are your hopes and fears for the future of?

I hope blues as a genre can continue to evolve while still staying true to its roots…if not it may become extinct over time.

If you could change one thing in the musical world and it would become a reality, what would that be?

That every artist had to record live…that would eliminate 90% of what is called “music” today.

What characterize Midwest blues scene?

To me the Midwest scene is very different from the coasts and big cities…it feels more “real” and the musicians have a true connection.

What touched (emotionally) you from local blues circuits?

Definitely the comradery amongst us all.

How has the Blues and Rock music influenced your views of the world and the journeys you’ve taken?

Not sure, but I know blues tends to be a universal language.

What is the impact of Blues music and culture to the racial, political, and socio-cultural implications?

I just play it...lol

Let’s take a trip with a time machine, so where and why would you really want to go for a whole day?

Late 1950s…Chicago…I would love to have seen the true pioneers playing live…plus I could get a 1959 Les Paul for $259…hahah

Johnny Fink - Home