PRPThe lovely and talented Haley Johnsen lit up the Rock Block and PRP studio this week with her delightful presence and beautiful music! Haley and a few of her band members joined us for snacks, a casual chat, and a sneak peek at some of the music she’ll be sharing with a full band at the upcoming mogo Portland Music Festival this November 20 and 21.

Photo by Teri Briggs

Photo by Teri Briggs

Haley is the kind of musician that PRP wants to share with the world – a local talent whose music reaches out to all people. Her lyrics speak of love found and love lost, feeling and overcoming pain, suffering and triumph. The songs lead the listener on a path they are sure to recognize. Through the Blue, her current album, is a collection of songs that touch the heart, with incredible vocals,  very reminiscent of some of Haley’s musical influences.

Photo by Teri Briggs

Photo by Teri Briggs

Haley spoke of her music journey in such a way that reveals she is still very much a traveler – her parents introduced her to music as an essential part of life. She remembered fondly listening to Bonnie Raitt in the car, and sitting in her room to deeply feel the passion of Celine Dion’s music. Her current influences are many, but her sound is uniquely her own – emotional and epic, with gritty emphasis just where it is needed.

Photo by Teri Briggs

Photo by Teri Briggs

Haley’s journey sped up a bit when she was featured on American Idol in 2012. She finished in the top 24, and found herself actively involved in creating original music. She graciously gives credit to her manager, Kyle Kuhns, for helping her navigate through the transitional periods. Now, after touring and coming home to perform locally, Haley gives back to the community by offering vocal and guitar lessons to children at the Lake Oswego School of Rock.

Photo by Teri Briggs

Photo by Teri Briggs

The podcast features Haley and a few members of her band performing a stripped-down version of several songs from her album “Through the Blue.” Her full band will be playing at the mogo Portland music festival, performing these songs as well as some cover songs she’s keeping secret until the performance. Haley is excited to share her music and her story – both of which are inspiring.

PRP
Latest posts by PRP (see all)