John grew up in the deep woods of northern Minnesota. His father was a multi-instrumentalist and local musician. His band played Traditional Country, Western Swing and Scandinavian folks songs. As a child, John would watch them rehearse in the kitchen. As he grew, he learned to sit in with them and find a part. His Mother is a literary writer of poetry and short stories. One of the few writers to be published nationally, first time out.
Recently he has returned to the stage showcasing his songwriting craftsmanship. This last year, Carlson has shared the stage with Grammy nominated band The Choir, Michael Roe from The 77′s and The Lost Dogs. He regularly plays with his friend Pierce Pettis whose songs have been covered by Joan Baez, Dion & the Belmonts and many others. Pettis also wrote Garth Brooks’ hit ‘You Move Me’ which was featured the multi-platinum selling album ‘Seven’. Of Carlson’s writing, Pettis says, ‘John Carlson writes songs with warmth and intelligence…a rare combination these days’. Nashville songwriter, Steve Hindalong featured John’s song, ‘Runaway Jimmie’ in his celebrated songwriting seminar, ‘Drop a Feather In The River’.
In December of 2013, John was awarded 1st Place in the American Songwriter Magazine and Gibson USA lyric competition. ‘I was surprised, honored and humbled’ Carlson says regarding the win. ‘As a songwriter, you write in your head first, and then to have someone else enjoy your music is really something.’ As part of his 1st Place win, John also received a new Gibson Songwriter Deluxe Studio EC guitar from Gibson USA. ‘It the first new acoustic guitar I’ve ever had.’ he said. John William Carlson is featured in the January/February 2014 edition of American Songwriter Magazine.
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