Since his last appearance on KOSU’s music podcast Songwriters & Tour Riders, Johnny Manchild has experienced a whirlwind of changes. He released two more albums, relocated to Los Angeles and back, and even tied the knot. In this episode, Matthew Viriyapah catches up with him about these transformative years, comparing life in L.A. to Oklahoma City, and discussing the new book club he's initiating at Commonplace Books. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by musicians in different cities, cultural differences affecting audience engagement, and the joy of exploring music literature.
The Challenges of Musicianship Across Cities
After moving to Los Angeles, Johnny Manchild found that the city's music scene lacked authenticity compared to other places like Atlanta or Chicago. Despite his efforts to immerse himself, he felt disconnected from genuine musical experiences. This realization led him to return to Oklahoma, where he reformed his band, adapting its structure to fit new members and roles. His journey highlights the importance of finding a supportive environment for creative growth.
Living in Los Angeles was a challenging experience for Johnny. Unlike cities such as Atlanta or Chicago, which have distinct musical identities, Los Angeles seemed to lack a soulful essence. Instead, it appeared to borrow trends from elsewhere, making it difficult for Johnny to connect with the local scene. The pressure and competition were overwhelming, pushing him to reconsider his location. Upon returning to Oklahoma, Johnny had to rebuild his band significantly, taking on additional roles due to personnel changes. This transformation resulted in a trio format with Alex Coleman and Ethan Neel, showcasing adaptability and resilience in maintaining his artistic vision.
Cultural Dynamics and Literary Adventures
Johnny reflects on the unique 'Midwest effect' he observes while touring. Audience behavior varies significantly between coastal areas and the Midwest, where people seem hesitant to fully engage. However, he believes that creating an inviting atmosphere can encourage participation, emphasizing the universal desire for self-expression. Additionally, Johnny shares his excitement about launching a music literature book club at Commonplace Books, fostering intellectual discussions around music history.
As Johnny tours across the country, he notices a noticeable difference in crowd dynamics between the coasts and the Midwest. Coastal audiences tend to be more energetic and uninhibited, whereas Midwestern crowds often appear reserved, almost apprehensive about losing control. Johnny attributes this to cultural norms but insists that everyone harbors a desire to let loose given the right encouragement. By establishing clear expectations for audience interaction, he finds that even Midwestern audiences can become lively participants. Furthermore, Johnny enthusiastically discusses his new venture—a monthly music literature book club at Commonplace Books. This initiative not only fulfills his passion for reading but also provides opportunities to delve deeper into music history through selected texts. Starting with Peter Carlin's "Sonic Boom," the club aims to explore diverse topics within music literature, engaging both readers and music enthusiasts alike in enriching conversations.