Jon Koonce
Jon Koonce is a Portland treasure from his days in the 70s playing in Portland bands such as Sleazy Pieces in legendary clubs like La Bamba, Euphoria, Last Hurrah and Sak’s Front Avenue. He left the drum throne and went on to fronting his own band, Johnny & The Distractions, and getting signed to A&M Records based on his success in the Northwest. The band toured the country opening for arena shows for Asia, J. Geils Band, and Tom Petty. This was followed by a solo album, also on A&M.
For the past 25 years, Jon has made numerous albums and played about every venue in the area solo and with his bands including The Gas Hogs and Honky Tonk Trio.
His latest album “Lost Cause” is a big sounding album – horns, backup singers… big sound. There are moments when you will hear shades of the Distractions days. It’s a rock record with soul and the songwriting is some of Jon’s best.
