John Allison is an accomplished musician/worship leader having played to audiences throughout the United States, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. With two original studio albums to his credit and a loyal following of fans, John Allison is a unique blend of soulful-rhythmic guitar playing, jazz-pop vocals, and emotionally exposed songwriting.
As a live performer, it is impossible to ignore him. You not only hear what he is singing and playing, you witness the words as they come to life in John's expression. And in an era of manufactured musical heroes, John Allison is anything but. He is true, honest, and gifted.
2 reviews
Andrew H.
June 10, 2022Our church needed someone to lead the music and worship one Sunday, and John made it really easy on us. He was very personable, gave good personal and social context to the songs, and was very willing to work within our list of songs that our congregation is more familiar with. Would happily hire him again!
Hired as: Praise & Worship Leader
Trent M.
October 21, 2020So well done!
Hired as: Praise & Worship Leader, Singing Guitarist
Price range: Typical: $400–$2,000
Languages: English
Gig length: 45 - 120 minutes
What Audiences Experience
When audiences come to see John Allison, they encounter more than a performance. They step into an experience that feels both intimate and alive. John’s soulful guitar rhythms, jazz-pop vocals, and thoughtful songwriting create a soundscape that is both familiar and fresh. His presence on stage is compelling. Every lyric is delivered authentically, and every song becomes a shared moment. Audiences leave feeling uplifted, connected, and inspired.
What Clients Receive
For event planners, John brings more than music. He delivers reliability, professionalism, and the ability to read and engage an audience. Whether performing in a theater, a corporate setting, a festival, or an intimate venue, he adapts seamlessly to the space and the people in it. His years of experience across the United States and abroad give him the versatility to fit diverse audiences while maintaining his unique artistic voice. Event organizers can expect a partner who communicates clearly, honors commitments, and contributes to creating an unforgettable event.
John Allison is an accomplished musician who has performed across the United States, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. With two original studio albums and a loyal following, his music blends soulful, rhythmic guitar work, jazz-pop vocals, and profoundly personal songwriting into a fresh, timeless sound.
On stage, John is more than a performer. You feel the music as much as you hear it. His presence makes every lyric come alive, turning songs into shared experiences with his audience. In a time of manufactured stars, John’s artistry stands apart. He is genuine, honest, and unmistakably gifted.
His latest release, Beyond All Love, features collaborations with world-class musicians and has drawn comparisons to Sting, Phil Keaggy, and John Mayer. Still, John’s sound remains distinctly his own, a vibrant mix of gospel, jazz, and pop influences that resists simple categorization.
Beyond the music, John’s creative life has always been about connection. He brings the same artistry and vision he has demonstrated as a designer, marketer, and storyteller into his songwriting. His lyrics often carry the weight of experience, faith, and reflection, inviting listeners to enjoy the music and consider life’s deeper meaning.
Originally from Wooster, Ohio, John has also lived in Colorado and New York and now resides in metro Atlanta with his wife and best friend, Lori. Together, they have raised two children, Moriah and Jonathan, who remain a source of joy and inspiration in his music and life.
John’s setup is streamlined and easy to integrate into most venues. He provides his own LR Baggs Para DI for guitar.
Audio: One XLR input (phantom power preferred but not required)
• DI: Artist provides LR Baggs Para DI
• Microphone: Shure SM58 or comparable on a boom stand
• Monitors: Stage wedges preferred, in-ear monitors acceptable if required
This minimal setup keeps things simple for the crew while ensuring a warm, professional sound for the audience.
Sunday
Worship Service
8:30am - 12:00pm
•
Birmingham, AL
Sunday
Worship Service
9:00am - 12:00pm
•
Dunwoody, GA
John brings a wide-ranging repertoire that can be tailored to the needs of any event. He covers most popular musical styles with ease, from pop and jazz to acoustic singer-songwriter favorites. In addition, he regularly performs modern worship songs, making him a strong fit for faith-based gatherings. His setlists are adaptable, ensuring the right mood and flow for each audience.
John’s music is shaped by a diverse range of artists whose artistry has left a lasting mark on his own. From Sting, he draws a balance of sophistication and accessibility. From Phil Keaggy, the intricate guitar work and faith-filled creativity. From Tommy Emmanuel, the dynamic acoustic energy that captivates audiences. And from Bruce Hornsby, the ability to weave pop, jazz, and soul into something both fresh and timeless.
These influences combine to create John’s own distinctive voice, blending lyrical honesty with rhythmic depth and melodic warmth.
One XLR input (phantom power preferred), artist provides LR Baggs Para DI, Shure SM58 or comparable mic with boom stand, stage wedges preferred but can use in-ear monitors, PA provided by venue or artist for small to medium venues.
Praise & Worship Leader
