Jon Geiger, “Eyes Closed”, photo by Krystal Kozak
Jon Geiger is certainly one of the most talented guitarists, writers and composers to come along in recent memory. Part of it comes from the mix of music genres in his background—he can incorporate jazz, classical, funk, rock and soul into his blues base. Part of that comes from his musical background. Jon grew up in on the East Coast, playing guitar in his native New York City. However, a defining moment for him was getting accepted to the prestigious Berklee School of Music in Boston, where he was exposed to and ultimately taught a good dose of jazz guitar. With a staff that included some of the top East Coast musicians, Jon learned from some of the best in the business. Jon will be talking to the Los Angeles Beat in an exclusive upcoming interview.
Jon’s next major move was to Austin, where he immersed himself in the city that Stevie Ray Vaughn lit up with hard-driving blues. Jumping ahead, Jon relocated to Los Angeles and the South Bay, where he’s been playing steadily at top-notch clubs like Harvelle’s and the Lighthouse Cafe. Besides his headlining shows, Jon Geiger has also opened for Robben Ford, John Mayall, Charlie Sexton, Doyle Bramhall, and Joe Ely among other greats.
Jon Geiger, photo by Krystal Kozak
Jon, also known by his moniker Blind Lemon Geiger, said about music in his upcoming LA Beat interview, “When I was in my late teens, around seventeen, I fell into this bottomless pit of undeniable, passionate connection to the thing that had swept over me; and this overwhelming desire to try to get to a level that was honoring the standard of the music, and the heroes that were inspiring me. Amazing heroes of mine, as a student; and as they became mentors and teachers of mine. But they weren’t your standard fare of teachers—they were really amazing, singular musicians who took me on, they said because they heard something in me that reminded them in some way of them. They weren’t necessarily trained as teachers”. Needless to say, they not only taught Jon the ins and outs of music, but the lit a fire under him for music that burns until this day.
Coming up starting this week, Jon’s schedule is well-booked, allowing fans all over the L.A. area to hear him and his excellent band. The bass player is Chad Watson, a veteran of the Nashville and L.A. music scenes and an in-demand session player. Chad’s worked with Delany Bramlett, Freddy Fender, Janis Ian, Ronnie Milsap and John York from the Byrds, to name a few. Peter Buck is a drummer and a composer, having released three albums with his group Buck’s Vibe. He’s played and toured with Keb Mo’, Thelma Houston, Ice T, Bonnie Raitt, Michelle Shocked and late LA blues legend Barbara Morrison.
Jon Geiger and his Band’s upcoming shows include:
The Lighthouse Cafe, Hermosa Beach December 31, 2022
Harvelle’s Santa Monica January 3, 2023
Santa Monica Outdoor Concert Series January 8
Rock N Brews at Yaamava’ Resort and Casino, Highland CA January 22
Mother’s Tavern, Sunset Beach CA January 29
Shenanigan’s, Long Beach February 2
Venice West (Blues Brunch), Venice February 12
Rock N Brews at Yaamava’ Resort and Casino, Highland CA March 26
Maui Sugar Mill Saloon, Tarzana June 12
Maui Sugar Mill Saloon, Tarzana July 10
Detailed information on all shows can be found on Jon’s website, www.jongeiger.com
Jon Geiger has come a long way from his beginnings, which in themselves form an interesting story in the upcoming interview the LA Beat has done with him. He’s expanded his roots, tastefully combining his blues base with jazz, rock and more to come up with a musical mix that shows what happens when someone well-versed in several genres knows how to combine them into a refined, superb blend. Essentially (to use a term reserved for some of the best wines) a Meritage blend for the ears. In the meantime, go check out one of Jon’s amazing live shows. You’ll be glad you did!
Jon’s website
Jon’s Spotify page
Jon’s Instagram Page: @jongeigermusic
