John Austin

          Discovered in a Chicago songwriter's competition in the early 1990's, John Austin recorded his first album, The Embarrassing Young, with the legendary Mark Heard. The album resulted in some worldwide attention for John and his music. However, on the eve of an international tour, John was jumped by a street gang in Chicago and beaten with a baseball bat.
          Over the next several months, as he recovered from his injuries Austin was dropped from his record label and his mentor/friend/producer, Mark Heard, died of a heart attack. Through it all Austin persevered, and worked to get back to the music.
          The dedication paid off. Austin's later album, Byzantium, was hailed a "masterpiece" by Performing Songwriter Magazine. The disc features a full band backing Austin, including such talents as Newton Carter & David LaBruyere (both formerly of Vigilantes of Love) Travis McNabb (Better Than Ezra), Randall Bramblett (Sea Level, Steve Winwood Band) and engineered by Don McCollister (Indigo Girls, Billy Pilgrim, etc.).
          In 1998 Austin released If I Was A Latin King (co-produced and recorded by Bill Campbell of the Throes) via the independent label, WeatherVane Music. The critics said "John is everything good about modern pop-rock.." He and his wife, vocalist Erin Echo were invited to do the Lilith Fair. They settled in Washington DC, where they currently reside.
          Touring both as a headliner and with The Vigilantes of Love helped John build his fan base around the country, and a reputation as an engaging live performer. His warmth and wit come through the music and connect with audiences in intimate venues as well as larger halls.
          After a few years spent working on new material, 2002 should be an exciting year. As he has always done, John's attracted incredibly talented, veteran musicians to record and tour with. His new CD, Stranded at the Pearly Gates.