SIMPLY SIX: Johnny Polidano

Johnny Polidano is a Canadian musician playing and recording in Hungary.

1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?

I am fortunate to have been playing the guitar at an early age so I don't think there was a defining moment, but when I bough my 1st acoustic guitar, it had an instant connection and I wanted to do so much more than just play a few cords. While I was working at Yuk Yuks in Vanouver back in 1989, I would go to the microphone when we were closed and play a few chords and sing a couple of verses and it sounded good. Unfortunately, I could not sing more than just a few notes and it took alot of years to get the sound I wanted out of my voice.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

I listen to alot of different styles but never when I am writing. Its always in the car driving, this week its John Hiatt, 70's classics(Eddie Money, Nick Lowe, Redbone) and a little Black Sabbath Volume

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

My greatest moment in music is getting the new cd finished, 13 songs done in Budapest studio, a Canadian guy who does not speak Hungarian well and getting this project completed with some great Hungarian musicians.

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?

For sure music can change the world, music can gather so many people together to share a common goal.

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Technology is a great thing for musicians, I was concerned years ago that it would make people lazy but it has had the opposite effect, it is so easy for artists to make music now and communicate.

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Boots, ready to take on the road ahead or can I borrow John Hiatts shoes for a day?