Who is Vince Jones?
I was born in Scotland and emigrated to Oz when I was ten years old. My parents were both musicians. My father was a Jazz piano player, arranger and, my mother a singer. He taught us how to play our instruments at a young age, he said to me “put this in your hands and blow” it was the trombone – I was 12 years old. It was too heavy for me to carry around, so I opted for the cornet. My mother was a beautiful singer, as was my sister, and I also loved to sing. 45 years later I’m still a musician with over 5000 performances and I’m still playing in various venues nationally. Still learning music at every chance, in fact, more so now than ever.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I would aspire more than I do now to make Australian-sounding music. I was brought up during a period where three art forms; Bossa Nova, Soul Music, and the Australian Dot painters. I would love to see Australian music become an actual Art form. We’re not there yet. I would love to be part of it when and if it happens. Australian music is so heavily steeped in American and British rock that it hasn’t had a chance to come forth, to breathe on its own.I believe it’s there in the waiting.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by the Philosophers. From Lao Tzu, Aristotle, Epictetus, Tolstoy, to John Lennon and the hundreds in between. They unanimously agree that “Only in the spiritual world will you find reality; for the Material World is an Illusion.” They also unanimously agreed that the key to the door of the Spiritual/reality world is Love.
What would you do to make a difference in this world?
Try harder to Love everyone and every creature on this earth. There are a thousand facets to Love and if we allow ourselves to investigate even a few of these facets we will begin to understand ourselves and others better.
What is your favourite holiday destination?
Anywhere near the beach, I love to be near the ocean.
What are you currently reading?
I’m reading Drinking Molotov cocktails with Gandhi. I love Mark Boyles’ books. I grow most of my own food and I have a greenhouse, so I’m reading Greenhouse Gardener’s Companion and No, I’m not growing Pot.
What are you currently listening to?
I’m listening at this very moment, Dexter Gordon’s ’GO. I love listening to music that hasn’t been affected by the Bean counters, by the current day record company philosophy – “If it doesn’t sell millions BIN IT.” I love the Jazz musicians of the 60s/70s they weren’t corrupted by money and fame it was all about the Music.
Happiness is?
Happiness is about Materialism whereas Joy is about Love. Happiness is short-lived like buying something, a car, a phone, clothes, whereas Joy Is the Love you have for your children, family, friends, culture, tradition, communication. Creating Art, Music, or even just a present for someone or a smile. I think this is where Joy lives. Joy is Timeless. Happiness in my eyes is short-lived.
What does the future hold for you?
I just keep on writing songs and playing music, I can feel a book coming to the surface. I love writing and performing music. I love learning and practicing with the end result being betterment. A new LP will happen soon, hopefully getting closer to Australian Music.
Vince explores the history of the protest song and discovers new anthems for the 21st Century in the world premiere of The Art of Protest – which will be presented in the Dunstan Playhouse – Adelaide Festival Centre on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 June – as part of the 2021 Adelaide Cabaret Festival. For more information, visit: www.adelaidecabaretfestival.com.au for details.
Image: Vince Jones (supplied)