Johnny Schaefer is an award-winning LA-based singer-songwriter and a vital voice in the Big Blend Radio and Magazines podcast family. A classically trained musician (BA in Voice and Composition) and a voting member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMYS), Johnny’s career spans from duets with Melissa Manchester to backing icons like Josh Groban and Billy Idol. With over 4 million views on his YouTube channel and a passion for storytelling, Johnny brings a sophisticated, eclectic perspective to our creative community. Enjoy the podcast conversation and his Q&A below.

What led you to a career in music? I grew up in a musical household. Both my parents loved music and sang to me as an infant. My Mom said I sang before I talked. When I was four, I used to tell people I was going to be a singer-songwriter, and that's when I wrote my first song. It's what I've always wanted to do.

What attributes do you need to be a full-time singer-songwriter? Creativity, passion for self-expression, and a thorough knowledge of music theory are essential. You also need solid vocal training, an understanding of lyric writing, and—as Melissa Manchester told me—an iron stomach.

Who or what inspires you? I'm inspired by authenticity, playfulness, spirituality, kindness, and empathy in others.

Describe your ideal audience. Eclectic music lovers who appreciate thoughtful lyrics, complex melodic structure, rich harmonies, and frank discussions about difficult topics.

What personal changes have you had to make to build your career? Making good music is expensive. I’ve had to learn what I’m willing to compromise on and what is non-negotiable. Also, as someone with ADHD, I’ve had to learn to impose structure on myself to get the results I want. My husband, Paco, is incredibly self-disciplined, and that fortunately rubs off on me.

What challenges do singer-songwriters face that readers may not know about? We put so much of our essence into our music that it’s hard not to see a lack of interest as a personal rejection. It helps to realize that music is subjective—it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay. Also, streaming pays almost nothing unless you hit the millions.

If you could invite three people to a dinner party, who would they be? I’ll exclude people I’ve already met and say: Alanis Morrissette, Sting, and Abraham Lincoln.

If you could switch careers for a day, what would you choose? I would be a really great dancer. I am in awe of what they can do with their bodies; the skills escape me, but I would love to experience that for a day.

What is on your bucket list for the next 3-5 years? I would love to write a musical that gets performed professionally. I am, at my core, a storyteller.

What is the most important tip for someone just starting in music? Be authentic and learn your craft. The whole point is to express your unique voice in the world. The audience you are meant to have will find you.