BY SHERI TRUSTY

John Pickle will bring laughter and music to the RiverFront Live stage on June 13. (Submitted photo)

PORT CLINTON – John Pickle likes to connect with people as much as he likes to play music. That makes RiverFront Live a perfect venue for The John Pickle Show, an energetic performance where Pickle pulls from his repertoire of over 300 songs. The audience can expect to hear anything from soft melodies to fast-paced tunes when Pickle performs at RiverFront Live on Friday, June 13, at 6 p.m.

“The audience can expect to get a few laughs and participate in the songs,” Pickle said. “I get people involved and bring people up on stage.”

Connection defines Pickle’s performances.

“What makes my show different from other musicians is, the audience directs the show,” he said. “I play the music they want me to play. I want to get their toes tapping. I get them involved.”

For Pickle, the show is not about him. It’s about the crowd.

“I don’t take myself too seriously. That would defeat the purpose. That’s not what my show is about,” he said. “I have a wireless guitar and a wireless mic so I can go out in the crowd.”

Pickle, who plays guitar and harmonica, is no stranger to Ottawa County audiences of all ages. He is a lifelong musician who stepped away from his guitar for a while when life got busy. When he reentered the music scene in 1996, his first performances were in nursing homes.

John Pickle will let the audience “direct the show” at RiverFront Live on June 13. (Submitted photo)

“I was so nervous, but the people just loved it. Word spread, and I started playing all over the place at nursing facilities and senior centers,” he said.

Word about Pickle’s concerts spread into the night scene, too, and today, he plays mostly in public venues.

“I’m leaning more into public shows. Now, I do more bars and wineries,” he said. “I wanted to get out and experience more people.”

Locals know Pickle from the many private parties he does and from his performances at area businesses like The Brick House, The Bait House, Overboard Bar and Grill and, of course, RiverFront Live.

“RiverFront Live gives me the chance to see a lot of the people I see other places,” Pickle said. “I see some people in one spot and different people in a different spot, but I see everyone at RiverFront Live.”

For more information on The John Pickle Show, visit www.johnpickleshow.com. For more information on RiverFront Live Group Facebook page.