Free Concert Series to Feature Vocal and Instrumental Innovator John Rush

Intrepid singer and songwriter John Rush, a.k.a. “the human iPod,” will kick off University of Findlay’s free, public Music Bach’s Concert Series on Friday, Sept. 20. His concert will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Alumni Memorial Union atrium.

The multi-talented Rush sings and plays guitar, bass, harmonica, piano, saxophone, banjo, keyboard and percussion. His original music, voice, and captivating lyrics won him Campus Entertainer of the Year and Campus Awards Musician of the Year in 2019. He has been called a “human iPod” because he can play more than 73 hours of music, none of it repeated, upon request.

Rush has opened for well-known entertainers such as Fuel, Eve 6, Edwin McCain, Matt Kearney, Keller Williams, and Rob Thomas (from Matchbox 20).

Rush’s sound is larger than many solo musicians. He uses a loop machine that allows him to record a guitar “loop” on the fly and then play other instruments over it. “I do this all live,” he said. “People always ask me if this is prerecorded music, but it’s not. I rely on my own ability to perform; the technical effects are only there to enhance what I do.” He explains his vocal style is part Jack Johnson and part Jimi Hendrix.

He has released three CDs, including the critically acclaimed “They Don’t Know My Name,” which features two tracks from the soundtrack to the film “Autumn and Everything After.”

Originally from Huntsville, Alabama, Rush learned to play guitar at age 12. After playing in jazz and rock bands through high school, he attended the University of Georgia on a classical guitar scholarship. He then moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he quickly became a must-see show in the bar scene before taking his show on the road.

Along with his own music, Rush performs covers.

Music Bach’s concert series is sponsored by University of Findlay’s Student Activities Board, “Your Source for Diverse Edutainment.”