A native of Knoxville, Tennessee, singer, songwriter, and guitarist John Paul Keith is a 17-year veteran of the Memphis music scene. During that time, he’s released five critically acclaimed solo albums, including his latest, 2021’s The Rhythm of the City, which American Songwriter called “one of the finest and most genuine roots albums of the year.”
In February 2021, Memphis soul legend Don Bryant recorded “A World Like That”, written by John Paul Keith and released as a single by Fat Possum Records. It wasn’t the first time Don Bryant cut a John Paul Keith tune; JPK contributed “One Ain’t Enough” for Bryant’s Don’t Give Up on Love, which was nominated for Album of the Year at the 2018 Blues Music Awards.
In addition to his own albums, John Paul has collaborated on two EP’s and an LP from Motel Mirrors, his roots side-project with Amy LaVere and Will Sexton.
John Paul also appeared on the tribute album Red Hot: A Memphis Celebration of Sun Records, with proceeds going to St. Jude. In 2017, he had the honor of performing with ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons at the Memphis Music Hall of Fame induction ceremony for Roy Orbison. That same year, his song “Afraid To Look” was featured in the Paramount film Downsizing, starring Matt Damon and Kristin Wiig.
Photo by Rollin Riggs.
When he’s not on the road, JPK can often be found playing Memphis classics alongside his own originals on Beale Street with a crack 6-piece band with horns. In December 2019, John Paul was the host and musical director of the Elvis: A Christmas Peace concert at the SoundStage at Graceland, performing Elvis Presley’s favorite holiday and spiritual music, and in January 2020 he paid tribute to Sun Records with a special concert at the Guest House at Graceland for Elvis’ 85th birthday.
John Paul Keith completed his latest headlining tour of Europe in 2022, traveling to nine countries and 26 cities. He is currently at work on his new album.
Photo by Jeff Woods.