Johnny Parks has always had a love and a talent for music. He began singing in his school choir and then progressed through various bands (including Dorothy Fields and The Maroons) before going solo. His ability to write great songs is now captured on his 2 most recent albums: 'Close To You' and 'Nomads Welcome'.
Nomads Welcome was recorded at ICC studios in Eastbourne, England with Iain Archer and The Amazing Pilots. It is a recording which combines a brooding intensity and honesty along with an upbeat expression of his love for God.
His more recent album, 'Close To You' is a live recording of worship at Mannafest (a monthly youth event held in Belfast, N. Ireland). This is a powerful recording, produced by Paul Burton and the band, and has received glittering reviews.
Because of Johnny's reputation as a consistently strong songwriter, he has written, played and recorded with such artists as Robin Mark, Iain Archer, Brian Houston, Daphne Rademaker, Trish Morgan, Booley, The Amazing Pilots, and Marie Lacey. He recently played with the local Irish band The Maroons and recorded with them their successful album '3 Miles'.
Johnny regularly plays festivals such as the Greenbelt festival and Cross Rhythms in England. Currently he leads enthusiastic worship every month at a 1300 strong youth event called Mannafest in the Ulster Hall, Northern Ireland. He also regularly leads worship at his local church, Christian Fellowship Church, Strandtown, the home of Robin Mark. Johnny is often invited to lead youth focused worship events at home and around the world, including Langley Vineyard, Vancouver.
The songs he writes seem to appeal to people across generations, not just the younger generation. They are steeped with an intimate sense of worship and an intense longing to know more of the Creator. He has the ability to write great sing-a-long acoustic pop/rock songs however, he balances this with more personal, reflective songs.
His songs are full of passion and honesty - something people can relate to. He wears his heart on his sleeve. His live set is packed with energy and a transparent desire to search for and give worship to God.
Johnny says "The encouraging thing for me is that in this country, where people are so divided and sensitive around religion and denominations, you get this mass of young people in one huge hall every month and they are all just going for it. Most of them just singing their hearts out and not worrying about denominations and who's standing beside them. The young people that go are great. They really boost me and allow me and the band to let it rip"!
