John Akers

Role at ROC Star Academy:
Utility Player

Hometown:
Kansas City!

Your musical focus/instruments you play:
Singing, songwriting, drums (and I fake a bunch of other stuff).

When did you start pursuing music?
 Before I was ten, I remember listening  to the entire "Woodstock" album on my dad's 8-track player and pretending I was in every band. It was awesome.

What is your musical education?
I was taught to play the drums in school but have made everything else up on my own since. I tried to take piano once after I had taught myself a little. The teacher listened to me play for a few minutes and simply said, “I can't fix that.” That explains a lot, I think.  

What are your musical influences/favorite bands?
Ella, Sam Cooke, Simon & Garfunkel, The Beatles, CSN, Sly & The Family Stone, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Paul Desmond, Randy Newman, Billy Joel, David Bowie, Rush, Peter Gabriel, The Police, Psychedelic Furs, U2, Jane's Addiction, Steve Earle, Lyle Lovett...

What is your “deserted island” album?
It would have to be The Woodstock Soundtrack so I could have a little of everything!

What is your favorite venue or event that you’ve performed?
Recently it would have to be the Fairport Music Festival—what an event and what a crowd! Too much fun. In 2019, I had Camp ROC shows plus three shows with my different bands. It was a once-in-a-lifetime day. I also loved playing at the Rochester Music Hall of Fame show a few years ago in honor of Roger McCall.

What’s the craziest thing that ever happened to you on-stage?
I must plead the fifth here. Sufficeth to say, I've broken a number of bones and am incredibly lucky that my wife hasn't left me ... yet.

What’s the best piece of musical advice you’ve received in your career thus far?
Be open to the advice of musicians you respect, but trust your own musical instincts above all else.

What is your favorite part of coaching at ROC Star Academy?
1. Seeing the growth from year-to-year, 2. Watching how creative young musicians can be in seeing songs in new ways. 3. Challenging them to get better.