It's safe to bet that in any discussion of local music in the metropolitan area of St. Louis, Missouri it would be almost impossible not to mention the bass work of John King. Born and raised on the banks of the Mississippi in East St. Louis, Illinois his playing has grown and matured to make him a standout amongst his peers. With an uncanny ability to perform and emulate different styles of music he also comes with a gift of rich musical interpretation. King brings to the music creativity, soul, spirit, and skill. This of course is always a welcomed compliment to any group he performs with.

With some background and training on the acoustic bass, King feels his electric bass playing lends him versatility and is often more suited for the majority of his gigging situations. He sees acoustic playing as the root and trunk, electric is the branches and leaves. Roots are strong and grow deep nourishing a tree. Branches and leaves aren't as strong but exist in a constant struggle with change. In Kings' words, “The more versatile you are the better off you are. Versatility is the working musicians' best friend.” John King is the working musician making the changes and adjustments for the situation.

When many musicians, however young or old, have the tendency to lean on their favorite style or musician for most of there musical inspiration and expressions. King does not limit himself to his favorites alone for musical motivations. While exposing himself to different styles of music he also draws his influences from a recent, as well as earlier catalog of bass greats. This consists of innovators and stylists such as Charlie Mingus and Ron Carter to Stanley Clarke and Abraham Laboriel along with many others who are too numerous to name here. This would also include musicians, students, friends, and music associates he has come to know over the years.

Walking in the path of the legendary Miles Davis, King is also a graduate of the historic Lincoln Sr. High School in East St. Louis, Illinois. Where, under the tutelage of Ronald Carter, he received a number of awards for outstanding musical service in the concert, marching, and renown jazz band. In further pursuit of his interests in music King attended Jackson State University-Jackson, Ms., Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, Forest Park College-St. Louis, Mo., and performed with the Washington University Jazz Lab Band-St. Louis, Mo. Although he didn't complete his studies King has proven himself to be qualified for most musical situations and is yet an avid supporter of lessons, organized music, and formal education.

Managing to work his way through the local ranks he has shared the stage with not only some of the best local talent but also national artists Ali Woodson of the Temptations, BB & CC Winans, Ben Tankard, Barbara Carr, Allen & Allen, David Peaston, Ramsey Lewis, Gary “EL BUHO” Gazaway, and others. He also played in bands that opened for shows Gil Scott Herin, Art Porter, Najee, Commissioned, and the Clark Sisters to name a few. He has proven himself recording worthy being asked to play on a number of sessions live and in the studio.

King finds it essential to share with others. He does this through clinics, lessons, and by hosting his own yearly bass workshop. King is always interested in new musical adventures, challenges, and opportunities to stimulate his musical growth.

King currently working on his own CD and performs regularly with the dance band “Boom”. He also has his own ensemble so meaningfully named “Good For The Soul”.