Nashville based songwriter/guitarist Jay Craik blends country, blues and rock with poignant lyrics into solid, flowing melodies resulting in well-crafted catchy songs. Add his profoundly soulful guitar styling and a voice that is rugged and honest, and you have the quintessential Jay Craik. Though born in Chicago, Craik has spent most of his life in Southern California. Growing up as the youngest of four boys, he was exposed to music at a very early age "The early AM radio stations like KEZY ...
Nashville based songwriter/guitarist Jay Craik blends country, blues and rock with poignant lyrics into solid, flowing melodies resulting in well-crafted catchy songs. Add his profoundly soulful guitar styling and a voice that is rugged and honest, and you have the quintessential Jay Craik. Though born in Chicago, Craik has spent most of his life in Southern California. Growing up as the youngest of four boys, he was exposed to music at a very early age "The early AM radio stations like KEZY and KHJ as well as KRLA had a big impact" beyond that his influences run the gamut from songwriters such as Steve Earle, Guy Clark, Van Morrison and the Beatles to guitar greats Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page and Dickey Betts, as well as bands like The Rolling Stones and The Who. Craik draws inspiration for his music from his real life experiences, including personal struggles and triumphs. He has played hundreds of shows throughout Southern California at such famed spots as the Troubadour, Whisky A-Go-Go, the Roxy, etc., first as guitarist for the bands Stonedowner, Within, Nickel Slick and The Longnecks. He then stepped out in front handling vocals, songwriting and guitars for Ten Cent Nickel. With Ten Cent Nickel, Craik reached a much broader audience via live radio shows in Los Angeles, live performances on local cable access shows and had a song placed in the feature film, "Do Me a Favor", starring Roseanna Arquette. Before relocating to Nashville in 2002, Craik embarked on a solo career, focusing on his songwriting and scaling his songs down to bare bones – his voice and guitar – and began taking the stage at more of the acoustic friendly L.A. venues. His solo performances have given him the gratification of knowing his songs could stand alone without the backing of a band. It even led to a few unexpected opportunities including a performance at the GRAMMY Electric Bus; a mobile exhibit that brought Seattle’s renowned EMP (Experience Music Project) to local audiences during GRAMMY week 2001. Craik is currently writing and recording at his home studio in the country, just north of Nashville. He continues to share his music on stages around the country, where he admits he feels most comfortable. Craik also finds time to enjoy his other passions: animals, mountain biking golf and jammin with friends. His charitable spirit has led him to helping the homeless, a truly rewarding experience.
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