In 1996 he was selected as a finalist in the WUMB/Border's Books and Music Songwriting Competition, and performed in the company of talented up-and-comers like Lori McKenna. While at school in Syracuse, NY, he performed regularly at Zopie's Caffeine Fix and No Borders No Boundaries (now sadly defunct, eaten by a Starbucks). After graduation he lived in London, traveled and even played a free show for 200 schoolchildren in Corcelles, Switzerland. Since settling in Boston and teaming up with percussionist Issam El-Ayadi, he has performed regularly at a number of area venues including Herrell's Renaissance Cafe in Allston, the Green Dragon Tavern in Faneuil Hall and the Kendall Cafe in Cambridge, where he and Issam enjoyed a Tuesday night residency back in September.
Jon's first CD, Is This Legal? has sold nearly 200 copies to date, and Jon and Issam released their first collaborative effort Tienes Fuego? in September. They expect to record another CD by May 2003.
Praise for Is This Legal?
from Gushing Fans:
"Hi Mr. Gorey, I just wanted to let you know that we (me and my 3 boys) bought your CD at Haymarket the other night after the Sox game and my son already knows the words to San Sebastian, and after playing it 1000 times, he should! Anyway just wanted to let you know that what was a somewhat nerve-wracking experience (taking the T at 11 p.m. with three young boys) actually turned into a nice experience once we hit Haymarket and got to listen to your beautiful music and voice. Thanks!!!!!!!"
-Nice Guy from the Orange Line
"I wish to God I could sing like you."
-Alan, lead singer of Winterboy
"I'm a friend of April...and today she came round with a CD to listen to. She played the second track for me first (which is my favourite!) and then the rest of them. Since then I've been listening to nothing else all day--the lyrics, guitar, tunes and your voice are all great! ...I hope you have every success!"
-Claire, London UK
"You have an amazing voice. I LOVE this CD."
-Amy, South Shoah Somewheah
