John Runnels

"Music to me is what religion is to a lot of people. Music has always been able to captivate me. It electrifies me; it gives me a feeling of euphoria, of joy. I play music to share how I feel with others. And because I love it."

From the beginning, John Runnels has been a performer. Raised in suburban Colorado, John began writing songs at the age of 16. Influenced by bands ranging from the British alt-rock of Radiohead and Coldplay to classics like The Beatles and Nick Drake, John’s sound synthesizes the acoustic singer-songwriter style with a modern pop-rock experience. His songwriting showcases his exceptional vocals. From his explosive rock ballad “Feel You” to his sorrowful folk-influenced “Snow,” John’s dynamics appeal to a wide range of listeners.

Impulsive and charismatic, John thrives on stage. Solo or with a band, John is hypnotizing and engaging – he captivates the audience, pulling them into the moment.

A self-proclaimed “Rock Star in Training,” John has spent years as a street musician, turning strangers into believers one person at a time. Sharing his love of music with others is what drives him, bridging the gap between performer and fan. Connecting to the audience – making it a personal experience – is what John delivers.

John recently won “CU Idol,” the University of Colorado’s American Idol-style competition. He was the featured Acoustic/Folk artist in the January 2008 edition of the *Colorado Music Buzz*.