John Ondrasik had a late break in his music career. Before he got used to the idea of having his song play on the radio, he was being asked to sing at the New York City Benefit of 9/11 victims. Music mattered to him on that night. John stated in our interview, “Music rarely means anything.” He recalls watching his heroes from the side of stage and getting chills. These heroes or influences if you really break it down are Elton John, Billy Joel, and The Who.
Ondrasik is much more than music. He has a wonderful mind for sports. Naming his band, “Five for Fighting,” after a rule established in NHL. John has written several Sports Illustrated articles in fact. A great voice and a great writer, is there anything Superman can’t do?
Well here is the sorted human experience. We all start to age and look for other avenues that will bring us happiness.
This Superman will be playing post 9/11 once again on the last official day of the Ravinia Festival Summer Schedule. On 9-14-14 the gates open to the North Shore gem once last time on a Summer Eve. I think it was a brilliant scheduling maneuver to have John sing us all off to autumn.
Five for Fighting
With Ravinia Festival Orchestra
Pavilion
Sunday, September 14, 2014
4:00 PM
Gates Open
7:00 PM
Concert Start
Reserved seats - BUY NOW
Lawn Tickets - BUY NOW
Tickets: $80/65
Lawn: $33**
**Lawn ticket prices are increased by $5 on the day of the show
I saw Five for Fighting last year at Ravinia, it was a great show. This year they will be playing with the hometown Ravinia orchestra. “We have been touring with different orchestras this year around the country,” John explained.
I asked John if he had ‘100 years’ (referring to his hit song) to write, what would he want to write about: An accomplished writer and singer, he is looking towards the future of getting into the movie and dramatic play industry. He is seeing his kids move out of the house as teenagers.
We closed the interview by complementing each other’s Hockey teams. Who do you think this Los Angeles native roots for? I will give you a hint, it is not the Hawks.
John said, “We are hoping for good weather on the 14th.” I second that, and if you can’t get into Riot Fest, head north to Ravinia (Highland Park)!
It is never easy being superman because even security in front of the White House will give you the boot if you are John Ondrasik. Maybe he should have voted for Obama instead of Romney. Long story.
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