Singer records with award winner

Mar 5 2009 by Shirley Bartynek, Hamilton Advertiser

A TALENTED Newmains singer has recorded his own song with five time Grammy Award Winner, John Mayer.

Jonathan Carr, whilst studying at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, America, was selected to work with John for a week, concluding in the international star producing as well as playing on Jonathan’s track.

The 20-year-old Lanarkshire performer sings and plays the piano on the song he penned during his summer break back home a few months earlier.

Mayer, who is currently dating Jennifer Aniston, was very impressed with Jonathan’s voice and his style of writing.

He said: “Jonathan has a special talent and it’s so refreshing to hear someone so original. I am certain he has a bright future.”

John spent five days at the world famous college and worked with 12 of Berklee’s best songwriters, eventually choosing three to record with at the special sessions.

After two sessions of discussing arrangements they went into the studio to record.

Jonathan had to cancel a flight to Miami, where he had been scheduled to work with a producer, but explained that he couldn’t let the chance to record with John pass up.

The former Taylor High School pupil said: “To get to record with someone of his stature is truly an honour.

“He is a complete musician and has always inspired me as a songwriter.

“John was so easy to get along with and gave everyone gifts before he left, telling us all to think of him as a friend.

“It was an experience I will never forget.”

Jonathan was awarded a scholarship to attend the music college when he was 17 and has been studying in America for two years.

He has now returned home to pursue his music career.

People can hear the track on his myspace: www.myspace.com/jonathancarr88.

In his time at Berklee, Jonathan performed in Singer’s Showcase, Singer’s Night, Convocation, Parents Night, Berklee Gala and Storytellers.

It was during this time that his songwriting really matured and he began to get noticed for his unique sound which combined piano based rock with influences of jazz and soul, whilst keeping a contemporary feel.