2023 Mass Cultural Council Grant Recipient

“A creatively inventive songcrafter” – Metronome Magazine

Bio

Musician and songwriter Jon Waterman has been performing his original songs along with blues, rock and country standards throughout his life. His music is influenced by intriguing characters and stories from history, the roots of the music he loves, and the diversity of the human experience. His song “Sultana” which tells the story of the Civil War steamboat disaster was selected to be featured at the Sultana museum in Marion, AR. Waterman has presented his programs “A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music” and “Cro-Magnon Blues: History and Legends Through Song” in venues around the country, both in person and virtually. He has an M.A. in Popular Music History from Prescott College, an M.A. in Psychology from Kaplan University, and a B.A. in History from Northern Arizona University.

Live Music Making History Live

Jon Waterman creates and performs programs that use music to inspire enthusiasm for and a desire to explore history. The shows consist of carefully researched original and traditional songs, stories and narratives and a slide show. Each program has a historical theme, and further themes are being developed. Currently the themes are:

  • A Journey through the Roots of American Popular Music
  • Cro-Magnon Blues: History and Legends through Song
  • The Railroad through Song
  • Popular Music and Veterans

A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music” by Jon Waterman is a unique performance experience combining music history, storytelling, and original songs inspired by his research. Waterman successfully transforms fascinating tales from history into an evening-length performance that feels personal, contemporary, and politically relevant. A must see for anyone interested in American history or American music!” – Sara Swifter, Director, MAGMA, Gloucester, MA

For more information, please email [email protected]

Videos

Riddley Walker

Shows

Acushnet Public Library – Community Room
Wednesday, March 13 – 6pm
A Journey through the Roots of American Popular Music
232 Middle Road, Acushnet, MA

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Acushnet Cultural Council,
a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Contact

[email protected]m