John Shipley

While growing up in the "Wild, Wild, West" of Reno, Nevada, John Shipley was no cowboy! Instead, at four years of age, this innovative jazz pianist put away his cowboy hat and was diligently studying classical piano. His current arsenal of hats are of another variety ......... Conductor, Arranger, Songwriter, Performer, and Producer. As a founding member of the popular jazz/fusion recording group, "Hiroshima" (Epic Records) he found and defined his musical personality during many long nights of playing along side of a myriad of L.A.'s finest musicians . The "Ship" (as his peers call him), is now sailing with his own enigmatic brand of contemporary jazz.

"Dance of the Jacaranda Tree" is John's debut CD on his new indie label, WZP Records, produced by his production company Washoe Zephyr Productions. Since John's career has been intense and diverse, allowing him to grow wildly in several creative directions, these jazz originals reflect a passionate enthusiasm of musical travels. His compositions have always been a reflection of significant personal growth. And so, the "Ship" is now embarking on a promotional concert tour.

In the 1970's, John became part of the L. A. jazz scene, playing with many bands and in many clubs. He then moved on to skillfully master the diverse musical styles found in the showrooms and lounges of Las Vegas, New York and Atlantic City. But after hours, John could be heard in crowded, smoke-filled jazz and R&B clubs. Now, following years of producing other artists and putting his unique stamp on their projects, Shipley is cultivating his own idea of raw, trailblazing jazz for the new millennium. The desert of Palm Springs, CA brought a sense of peace into John's life and his music, and the intriguing beauty of the Jacaranda tree played an important role. Then in 1996, after receiving the annual award for Best Sound Design, from the Desert Theater League, John decided that the time had come to capture and record his own unique style. With the best players from that area, he transformed his compositions into truly story-telling, musical journeys. These five extremely talented musicians left their egos at home and brought to the session their lives, instruments and souls.

Now with his feet planted back in Nevada soil, John is now reaping the spirit of the "old west" to find more inspiring musical images. He continues to operate Washoe Zephyr Productions and is adding artists to his growing stable at WZP Records. Although, John is now inland, he does believe that his "Ship" WILL come in with "Dance of the Jacaranda Tree"!