Living a Multifaceted Creative Life with Musician John Harvey

John Harvey - Professional bassist formerly with Secondhard Serenade and music composer and sound engineer — John Harvey, Professional Bass Player, Entrepreneur and Music Composer

I was first introduced to my good friend John Harvey by our mutual bro Dave Fowler formerly of the band Echo Movement. At the time, John was the guy who was thumping away on the bass guitar with the emo band Secondhand Serenade.

During his touring days, John also played with artists like Jessie James Decker, Jackson Harris, Williams Honor, Natalie Stovall to name a few.

Nowadays John keeps busy composing original music for TV and movies while also running various successful side hustles and business ventures.

John is amongst my favorite conversationalists and deep thinkers and today we walk through his incredible musical journey and trace back his work ethic while taking several tangents along the way that I thoroughly enjoyed and I think you will too.

John is a complex guy, but somehow manages to keep things simple. He’s a big believer in sticking to your guns, rolling with the punches, and he seems to have found an uncanny way to being ok with switching gears and leaving ego out of it, which for a musician is a rather rare accomplishment.

We talked about the digital world as a whole and how social media can be a tool that both connects us and throw us off our game, making us question our self-worth and the quality of our connections. It’s a tricky balance, but he’s navigated it with eyes wide open, aiming for real, meaningful interactions in a world that’s always online.

This chat is for anyone who’s ever wondered how to keep their creative spark alive while staying true to themselves in a digitized, often impersonal world. Whether you’re an artist, a musician, or someone with a dream and a day job, there’s something in John’s story for you.

Musical Journey and Professional Evolution

Versatility in Music: John Harvey reflects on his evolution in the music industry, emphasizing the necessity of being adaptable and versatile. From playing in college bands to touring the world, his story is a testament to the importance of hard work and not overthinking one’s path.
Recording Adventures: Harvey shares memorable experiences of recording a record in a barn in New York, highlighting the importance of immersing oneself in the process, whether through learning new skills like Pro Tools or contributing to the team in any way possible.

What You’ll Learn:

The Complexity of Creativity: Insights into the intricate journey of an artist navigating the music industry, balancing creative passion with technical skill.
The Power of Hard Work and Adaptability: The significance of persistence, wearing multiple hats, and building strong relationships in achieving success.
The Importance of Real Connections: Amidst the digital era’s challenges, the conversation underscores the value of genuine human interactions and the detrimental effects of social media on self-esteem and authentic relationships.
Life Beyond the Stage: Harvey’s reflections serve as guidance for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs, showing that fulfillment often lies in diverse experiences, dedication, and a commitment to one’s passions.

So, let’s get right to it. Here’s to finding our paths, keeping it real, and never losing sight of what truly matters. Thanks for tuning in.

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John Harvey, Professional Bass Player, Entrepreneur and Musical Composer

The Multifaceted Musician

Harvey’s journey through the music industry underscores the essence of versatility. Starting from his college band days to touring internationally, he illustrates the necessity of wearing multiple hats. Whether driving the tour van, managing tour logistics, or stepping into the recording studio, Harvey’s ability to adapt and take on varied roles propelled him forward. His story is a vivid illustration that in the creative and music industries, success often requires more than just talent; it demands adaptability, hard work, and an eagerness to learn.

Embracing the Learning Process

One of the most captivating parts of Harvey’s narrative is his experience recording in a barn in New York. This anecdote is more than just a unique recording experience; it’s a metaphor for immersing oneself in the process of creation, learning, and collaboration. Harvey’s willingness to dive into new skills, from mastering Pro Tools to contributing to the overall team effort, highlights the importance of being both a student and a contributor. It’s a powerful reminder that the journey of creation is as much about the process as it is about the outcome.

The Digital Dilemma and Authentic Connections

In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, Harvey and Alders touch upon a crucial topic: the impact of social media on self-esteem and the quality of human connections. Their discussion sheds light on the double-edged sword of digital platforms and the importance of nurturing genuine relationships. For creatives and entrepreneurs, this part of the conversation serves as a critical reflection on how to balance online presence with real-world interactions and the value of disconnecting to connect more deeply with oneself and others.

Lessons for the Creative Entrepreneur

John Harvey’s journey encapsulates invaluable lessons for the creative entrepreneur. The blend of creativity, musical talent, and entrepreneurial spirit is a powerful combination that can lead to success in various arenas. However, this blend also requires a balance between the right-brained creativity and left-brained analytical thinking. Harvey’s ability to navigate these waters, combined with his relentless work ethic and dedication to continuous learning, offers a blueprint for anyone looking to carve a path in the creative industries.