John Francis- A Touch Of Country In The City

by Daryl W. Hannah II

Hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is singer/songwriter John Francis. He has been bringing the county to our big city with his relaxed, laid back vocal style and smooth southern-like guitar style. Francis is certainly walking the line to success.

Since age twelve Francis has been performing on stage and doesn’t see himself slowing down. “I’ll never not sing” says Francis. “I have been singing since I could speak.”

As a child Francis sung in choir, played piano and guitar. As such a well rounded musician Francis had the perfect foundation for a music career. With two albums released (The Better Angels and Strong Wine & Spirits) as well as another album in the works, co-producing with John Carter Cash (Johnny Cash’s son), John Francis will stop at nothing to have his music heard. “Never ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever give up.” Francis says, “Knock on the door and if it isn‘t open, knock it down, create it, make noise and keep trying.”

In November of 2012, Francis had the chance to open a concert for Loretta Lynn at the Keswick Theatre.  Lynn has been a huge part of the country music scene since 1960 with her debut single “I‘m A Honky Tonk Girl”. “It was the high-point of my career” says Francis. When asked how he was able to land such a huge gig, Francis responded with “I simply asked.”

“I am inspired almost all the time” Francis continues. “When I’m not trying to put the pen to the paper, I try to put myself in a position to be inspired. I am in essence, I am a human, I am interested in human stories and intangible things that brings us together- joy, tragedy and attempts to become ourselves.”

After doing some traveling, performing in Zurich, broadening his fan base, enjoying good food and wine and recording an album in Tennessee, John Francis is back in Philadelphia doing even more amazing things. He just put together The City Of Love Festival which is the first ever to grace our great city. This festival is an attempt to bring the music scene together and it is also benefiting Broad Street Ministry and it’s Hospitality Initiative.