Johnny Kasun presents “Mista Christmas,” a five-track EP that’s sure to get you into the festive spirit with its timeless tunes and splendid, extra smooth, guitar-centric grooves that you’ll find yourself humming along to without even realizing it. Better served with some sweet mince pies.
Describe your sound in 3 words
Funk Rock Christmas
Tell us a few things about your new work Mista Christmas EP. What is the story behind it?
I’ve always been a huge fan of Christmas and traditional Christmas music, and usually perform in over 25 holiday-themed events each year, and wanted to create something unique to celebrate the season. So I set out to put together arrangements of some of my favorite songs that blended my guitar strengths, especially fingerstyle guitar, with my love for the funk sound from my favorite bands like Vulfpeck. Each song has a different sound, but should be very familiar to everyone, and hopefully brings something new to all who appreciate Christmas music and the holiday season.
Artists and people that have influenced you?
I get much of my guitar inspiration from Tommy Emmanuel and Jerry Reed, my songwriting has been inspired by artists such as James Taylor, Jim Croce, and Billy Joel – as well as my mentor, Todd Wright. My love for funk and performance comes from artists such as Cory Wong, Joe Dart, and Theo Katzman.
What drew you to fingerstyle guitar?
I enjoy the complexity and beauty of classical guitar as well as the improvisation of jazz and rock, so I was amazed when I heard my first Tommy Emmanuel song (Angelina). His style and arrangements were the perfect mix of everything I appreciate as a guitarist and performer. Tommy’s guitar skill is almost superhuman, and his songs are masterpieces – but he is a very humble person who truly enjoys performing… and that is the kind of artist I aspire to be.
In which place or state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
I really want Mista Christmas to be a part of everyone’s holiday celebrations – whether it’s sitting around the Christmas tree with family, riding the car looking at the decorated homes, enjoying holiday parties, or just trying to take in the season peacefully by yourself. Christmas is, by far, my favorite season, and I hope that I can reach everyone with a little touch of the joy that I feel each year.
As the holiday season approaches, what is on your wish list – whether for yourself, your craft, or the broader world of music?
I perform at over 25 charity holiday events each year at shelters, soup kitchens, hospitals, and for special needs organizations/programs as part of a nonprofit organization called Holiday Express. Holiday Express serves those who are desperately in need throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania from early November through Christmas Eve. Through these performances, I get to see many people who are often forgotten at Christmas – and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to bring them some spirit and joy. My wish is that I have the opportunity to continue to give to this community throughout the year, and that others also rise to the call and provide as much support and assistance to those who need it most.
A song you would pay to hear for the first time again?
Angelina, by Tommy Emmanuel.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
The practice is worthwhile. Keep at it. Don’t get discouraged. Persistence always pays off.
Thank you!
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