Press:

“Side II/John Batdorf I was privy to a private listen, and I can honestly say, the only problem with John’s new EP is IT’S TOO F’IN SHORT!! Great songs and singing better than ever. The complete, albeit short, package!! David Spero”
David Spero - Cleveland Press

““An Extraordinary Ordinary Life,” John Batdorf. EP Review John Batdorf, of ’70s folk-rock groups Batdorf & Rodney and Silver, once again displays his considerable abilities as a storyteller on “An Extraordinary Ordinary Life.” Hot on the heels of last year’s full-length, “Last Summer,” “An Extraordinary Ordinary Life” features six upbeat songs co-written with longtime collaborator Michael McLean. Where “Last Summer” found Batdorf in a contemplative mood, especially considering the pandemic the album was birthed into, this new EP often takes a lighter approach. The opening track, “I Wanna Know,” is a pure, wide-eyed love song, as is the yearning rocker “She’s So Lonely.” As mentioned, Batdorf is at his best when he has a story to tell. “Tone Deaf and Two Left Feet” is a charming country-ish ditty about a musical duo — a man who has no rhythm and a woman who has no melody — filling out each other’s weaknesses. .......”
Brian McElhiney - Bend Bulletin

“With An Extraordinary Ordinary Life, rock and roll veteran John Mr. Batdorf enters the arena with an unashamed, pop sensibility and does not apologize or half-step. All songs self-produced and co-written with songwriter Michael McLean, the crystal clear production and sheen is hard to dismiss outright if you’re a sucker for a pop hook like me. Prepare for sunshine and set the controls for the sky. Perfectly pronounced words and sung melodies complement and walk through a meadow or a hike along a ridgetop. Don’t let the sunshine fool you however, John’s journey into making this EP was fraught with danger when his entire family came down with Covid 19 right alongside McLean’s heart attack. Thankfully everyone survived just in time to finish it, making this is one of those records that surprises you when your tracks are on shuffle. Or like a neighbor stopping by with a loaf of fresh raisin bread. It's just so damn easy to listen to that it keeps growing on me like a 3-day stubble.”
Chris Armes - Americana Highways

"Wham Bam" is a 1976 song by the American group Silver, written by country songwriter Rick Giles. It was the only charting song by the group. John Batdorf sings lead vocals.[1] The single's title, "Wham Bam", was shown as "Wham Bam Shang-A-Lang", and peaked at No. 16 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in the fall of 1976.[2] It is ranked as the 70th biggest hit of 1976.[3] The song also charted in Canada (No. 27), doing better on the Adult Contemporary chart (No. 17).[4] Arista executives gave the band the song to record, after concluding that none of the other tracks on the album they produced had single potential. Arista head Clive Davis himself co-produced their single. The song appears in the 2017 Marvel Studios sequel film, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and it is included on the movie's soundtrack. The Wham Bam Youtube page has just surpassed 6 million hits! https://youtu.be/hZzBZQf_7Tk
NA - Revolvy

““Willoughby” opens, about the Twilight Zone TV episodes from his youth, especially one that concerned a character’s idyllic home town: “We’re as happy as can be/ ‘Cause we’re here in Willoughby.” Batdorf keeps pushing the positive buttons on “I’m In Love With You” and “Don’t It Make You Wonder Why,” both of which are floating pop confections that sing love’s praises with heavenly backing vocal harmonies and catchy hooks. He is down on his luck for “Sure Could Use Some Love,” which makes more of an impression. He has had some bad breaks and is feeling sad, but the sun is still shining—he just wants it to shine on him. The spare instrumentation here and elsewhere keeps the focus squarely on Batdorf’s impressive voice. “They Can’t Have Everything” has a beat and an attitude, about the one percent robbing from society; Batdorf fudges the spots where a profanity would fit the rhymes—he will do protest, but not use four letter words. It still is”
Frank Kocher - San Diego Troubadour

“The overall feel on these songs is a musician taking stock of his life’s work, finding happiness in family and home. But Batdorf, who also performs at addiction recovery conferences around the country, isn’t getting too comfortable, either: “They Can’t Have Everything” is funny, pointed look at income inequality and politics that argues billionaires “don’t really give a flying you-know-what” about those less fortunate than them. Meanwhile, the gorgeous ballad “The One That Got Away” finds Batdorf grappling with regret in one of the most affecting songs on the record. Batdorf has a handful of solo Pacific Northwest dates this summer, and hits the road for a more extensive U.S. tour in September. Be on the lookout for more local shows from the songwriter, too: “Now’s the time to go out and sing about it, because I wrote about this place,” he said.........”
Brian McElhiney – - The Bulletin

“The strengths of John Batdorf’s music have always been a combination of his unique and talented acoustic guitar playing and his distinctive vocal abilities. In this respect, the newest CD falls completely within those parameters. But at the same time, his more recent works have included much more instrumentation and complexity than the much earlier (Batdorf & Rodney) works. This isn’t bad or wrong, and in fact, is a natural result of the decades of music making for many venues and a more sophisticated understanding of music itself. But it had put a layer of professionalism on top of the innocence and youthful exploration that was so inviting to the early works. In Next Stop, Willoughby, John has taken it upon himself to play all of the instruments and perform all of the vocal parts on the album. This in itself forces him to pare down the levels of complexity, to carefully consider each instrument or voice in the context of its immediate need to present the song at its best.....”
Dennis Wasnich - Fan Review

“John Batdorf, the legendary singer-songwriter solo artist and one half of Las Vegas Rock and Roll Hall of Famers folk-rock duo Batdorf & Rodney, has released a brand new album Next Stop, Willoughby, a collection of ten original songs all written, produced, arranged, mixed, sung, and performed entirely by John. He will be touring this summer with select dates across the U.S. Batdorf recorded Next Stop, Willoughby in his Central Oregon-based home studio over the course of the last six months. The project was inspired by Paul McCartney's first one-man-band solo record in 1970. "Normally I recruit other musicians/singers to be a part of the album but this time I decided to do it all myself. I loved Paul McCartney's first solo recordin 1970 where he pretty much did the same. So as I approach age 65, I figured now was the time."..........”
Press Release - Broadway World

“The latest album from John Batdorf is Next Stop, Willoughby. He has been in the music biz for 50 years, doing just about everything—as a hot new talent with a big label contract, a session musician with artists as varied as Jefferson Starship, Rod Stewart, Motley Crue, and Adele, and working as a staff writer for network television. He also has released many albums both as a solo artist and with others, including James Lee Stanley and Michael McLean. His songs are primarily acoustic pop and soft rock, which use his upper register vocals to anchor plenty of sharp, tight vocal harmonies. The ten tunes are written by Batdorf and McLean; Batdorf plays the instruments, produces, and mixes—and it is slick and solid throughout. While its upbeat nature might give the impression that Batdorf’s music is lightweight, it is probably fairer to say that he includes some introspective songs and even protests, he just doesn’t do them in a strident manner. “Willoughby” opens, about the Twil”
Frank Kocher - All Music.com

“John Batdorf (from the album Beep Beep) - John Batdorf welcomes you in with efferescent vocals on Beep Beep, his recent release. His voice rises like champagne bubbles, popping out rounded notes that bounce along the story line to show words walking through a life of pitfalls filled with dollar bills (“Where Does All the Money Go”), and hearts full of love (“She Knows What I Life”). His voice is encouraging, urging us to build our own belief systems (“Imagination of the Heart”), and to hold on to hopes (“Dream”). John Batdorf drives a Beatles-mobile onto Beep Beep evidenced on the title track hook. The tune traces influential mantras back to John’s musical heroes with ‘beep beep, beep beep, yeah’. The story line goes back to 1964, putting John Batdorf in front of the family TV for four consecutive weeks of Fab Four appearances on the Ed Sullivan show. See more on the link below.........”
Danny McCloskey - Alternate Root Magazine

“Batdorf and Rodney weren’t the best known duo, even in their heyday during the early to mid ‘70s. Never as well received as, say, Simon and Garfunkel or the Everlys, they nevertheless made several embracing albums and filled them with soothing, supple melodies. Still, success was elusive, and when Batdorf and Rodney went their separate ways, their legacy didn’t linger long. onsequently, John Batdorf’s latest solo album, Beep Beep, could have been little more than a blip blip on the radar screen, were it not for the fact that it’s a set of songs which does resonate with heartfelt earnestness and enthusiasm. Batdorf’s voice has a dusty timbre which, on a song like the reflective “That’s What I’ll Remember,” brings to mind Don Henley in its tender trappings. Yet, Batdorf is more than merely a sensitive singer/songwriter. The title track, which opens the album and sets the tone, is a joyous ode to the impact of the Beatles, complete with the trademark “beep beep” (C”
Lee Zimmerman - Elmore Magazine

“Format: Audio CD Beep Beep is a terrific selection of original songs by singer-songwriter John Batdorf. Those of you who grew up with classic 60's and 70's rock will remember John from the duo Batdorf & Rodney. John still seems to be a hungry musician as he self-produced Beep Beep and is working hard to promote it. The songs are upbeat, contemporary, nostalgic and more than enjoyable. I think he has been having a lot of fun along the way as it shows in his voice and the music. If I still relied on vinyl, Beep Beep would more often than not be found on my turntable any day of the week.”
P. D. Shafer - Amazon.com

“I was newly married in 1975 and my bride brought an LP to me by a soft-rock pop duo with the unlikely name of Batdorf and Rodney. She really liked it and after repeated listenings, so did I. They quickly went away and I really haven’t thought of them since. Until now. “Beep Beep” (Batmac Music) by John Batdorf arrived on my doorstep 13 years after my divorce and I played it while in the car with my new improved younger wife and–guess what?–we both loved it. “Beatlesque” would be the word but the title track, taken from Lennon/McCartney’s “Drive My Car,” mixes’n’matches a whole buncha Beatle tunes like Harry Nilsson did back in 1967 with his prescient mash-up of “You Can’t Do That.” Batdorf even sounds a little like Nilsson and that, my friends, is the highest compliment you can give a singer. “Beep Beep,” in fact, is the single most delicious little tune of the year (especially for anyone who ever loved the Beatles) and I can’t stop listening to it.”
Mike Greenblatt - Gold Mine Magazine

“BATMAC JOHN BATDORF/Beep Beep: Whether being a rocker or a folkie, Batdorf has made his bones, joined the Vegas hall of fame and has nothing to prove so he comes in with some personal stuff boomers can relate to and appreciate. Love the Beatles, hate the tax man, all the boomer concerns are on board here. Stepping up like the long time pro he is, Batdorf almost seems to be blazing his own trail here and we hope his machete stays true as he continues to clear the underbrush. Fun stuff that certainly resonates with listeners of a certain age. Check it out. 20155”
CHRIS SPECTOR, Editor and Publisher - Midwest Record

““Where Does All the Money Go” If you grew up, in a time where gasoline for your car was less than $1 a gallon, parking was FREE at the beach, at shopping centers, and on city streets, where apartment rental was about $100 a month, a decent 3-bedroom home cost $50-75,000, there were $1 Nights at movie theatres (regular price was $2.50), you will COMPLETELY “GET” “Where Does All The Money Go.” If you’ve grown up “expecting” to pay $20 to park at a shopping center, before you EVEN enter a store, you may NOT “get” the song. While “Where Does All The Money Go” sounds nothing like a knock-off of “Tax Man” by The Beatles, it reflects some of the same sentiments, and is “fun” in spite of the serious subject-matter. I own most of John Batdorf’s discography, and have never been disappointed. I preordered this CD without having heard it; and continue to stand behind John’s music. If you ever have the opportunity to see him perform live, I would encourage y”
Sandy Jacobson - Facebook Blog

“The new John Batdorf album has been released (yesterday). How good is this album? Here is the review I posted on iTunes. Take the purity and magic of the 60's, add the depth of the 70's, add about 40 years of life experiences, great song writing and the awesome vocals of John Batdorf and you get the idea. The album quality is like a greatest hits album but yet is just the latest solo effort from John. With a room full of people everyone could probably list a different song from this album as their favorite. Whether you prefer songs that rock or ballads, this album has it and you should defintely have it in your collection and playlist. Sample the album at iTunes. If you don't have iTunes the link is below. The song Dream is Brenda's favorite. I haven't picked a favorite yet. So far, which ever one I'm listening to is my favorite. John will be the artist at our first house concert on November 13th. Can't wait. Ron Jones”
Ron Jones - Facebook

“October, 2014 - "What a special night! This was our first show unplugged and John was fantastic! He was charming as a guest, his songs were thought-provoking and kind, and his performance was outstanding. We highly recommend him as both a performer and a guest. John has an outstanding voice along with flawless guitar playing. The range of his songwriting came as an unexpected surprise for us who had not followed his productive career.That made these wonderfully crafted songs both brand new and familiar." ) - See more at:”
L. Allen - CIYH

“September, 2014 - "WOW! John was a tremendous hit for our first house concert! His demeanor coupled with his musical talent impressed everyone. His songwriting is second to none and the stories that go with them lends a personal touch. He was the perfect kick off for our home concert series and provided all kinds of great advice leading up to the show. We could not have asked for a better partner in all aspects of the preparations and the actual performance! Thank you, John, for a wonderful evening! Book this guy!" - See more at:”
(E. Frischmuth) - CIYH

“John Batdorf has a voice like the one we all wanted to hear as children-- confident enough to get our attention and loving enough that is does not raise up our walls. Soundtrax 2 Recovery is a audio reminder that you are not alone. It is supportive without being demanding. The album witnesses without judging your life; you can lead a horse to water but not make it drink. John Batdorf and Michael McLean don’t force sobriety down your throat, but they do let you know just how damn good recovery tastes.”
Alternate Root

"I knew John was going to put on an excellent show, but he exceeded my expectations! His technical expertise, song choice & the back stories, willingness to please, his sense of humor, & open humble spirit, all added up for an evening to remember! In addition, he is just a downright wonderful human being! He was a wonderful guest. Highly recommended!"
(C. McCoy) - http://www.concertsinyourhome.com

“Somewhere back in time, John Batdorf made a decision to sing songs that make us feel a little better about ourselves and our lives. As John points out in “Ain’t Dead Yet “, the opener for his recent release Soundtrax 2 Recovery, his words are as much for himself as for the listener; “I am part of this crew, I’m in this boat with you”. Soundtrax 2 Recoveryis a collection of songs written by John Batdorf and Michael McLean. The album is powerful in its presence, strong in its beliefs that words and music can make a difference.”
Alternate Root

“John Batdorf and Terry Holder The consummate singer-songwriter, John Batdorf brought a bushel basket full of thoughtfully conceived songs containing insightful lyrics and tuneful melodies and delivered them to a rapt audience. With his clear, articulate, pitch-perfect tenor voice and superb acoustic guitar accompaniment, Batdorf made excellent use of the natural resonance of the room and moved effortlessly from delicate finger picking ballads to rhythmic rockers with powerful lead lines and strumming. His easy, relaxed stage presence and refreshingly transparent guitar sound (among the finest I've ever heard) were an added bonus to a performance that left nothing lacking. Terry Holder opened for John Batdorf with a solid, heart-felt set of originals and accompanied her sweet light and lilting soprano with fine open-tuned guitar. Terry’s performance was complimented by the skilled lead guitar work and vocal harmony of her husband, Jerry Holder, who added just the right touch”
Tim Noah - Thumbnail Theater June 10th

“John Batdorf * "One Last Wish" Many of these songs have the Springsteen-like dynamic of endurance and self-belief. Unlike so much current music which paints landscapes both bleak and lonely, this is affirmative music, music that seems to have emanated from an old soul of much empathy and soul. He’s a great singer, with an expressive tenor like an unbound Don Henley on some songs, with hints of Stephen Stills and Dan Fogelberg. It’s a voice that cuts like a knife through the rich folk-rock textures of acoustic guitars, twin electric guitar leads, vocal choirs, tapestry drums and sparkling mandolins. People think nobody’s making music this meaningful anymore. They’re wrong; Batdorf is. This is great. –”
Paul Zollo - Bluerailroad

“One Last Wish The promise made back in 1972 with the first Batdorf & Rodney album has been fulfilled time and again by John - and this, his newest release, almost 40 years on is one more reason to have remained a fan all this time. His way of wielding words with sublime melody is a talent others only wish they had. Once more with feeling - and a lot of it.”
Dean Sciarra - Itsaboutmusic.com

"One Last Wish" as a whole, is John's most consistent album start to finish. While there have been no "bad" or "throwaway" songs on John's previous CDs, there have always been a song or two or three per album that have stood out greatly as the cream of the album. And as considerable as John's talents are as a songwriter, vocalist and guitarist, one of his greatest skills has become his mastery of the recording process. The production on this CD is note perfect, down to the last handclap and tambourine shake. This incredible collection of humble pop songs has fully risen to and even exceeded my admittedly high expectations, has made me fondly remember my younger days and has me upbeat and optimistic about the future! That's a lot to get from a dozen songs, a sure sign of Important music and a sure sign that, as John sings in "Life Is Good", "Today life got a little better"! PETER KRANTZ' INDEPENDENT MUSIC REVIEWS
Peter Krantz - Petered Out

“ Most musical professionals seem to come to terms with their careers and creativity around the early fifties, ending with some sort of final "Best Of..." compilation. Not John Batdorf! At 59, and a defiant refusal to except this, Batdorf has proven, once again, that when it comes to age and music, it can be ever as exhilarating and wonderful as an aged glass of fine wine and some complimentary French pastry. Age beckons beauty in this case, without question. With the release of his newest CD, One Last Wish, retirement seems to be a distant afterthought for this talented musician, who has already encapsulated over 4-decades of a vast compendium of musical songwriting and melodic tunes.”
Mike Hays - Amazon Review

“John Batdorf is known for his distinctive, truthful lyrics and vocal style. He is no stranger to looking inside his very heart and soul. "One Last Wish" has exceeded all expectations. Fasten your seat belts because this man will run the gauntlet with his heartfelt and honest song writing skills. He holds us in his palm from the first track to the last. The transitions from track to track is smooth and unobtrusive. He is unequaled in his ability to connect to each listener, time stamping this era perfectly. John Batdorf brings it to the table with "One Last Wish", making this album the one you will wear out and replace again and again. Fantastic! The thing about John Batdorf's work, is that he is a perfectionist and when he releases an album, the entire play list is high quality and heart felt. If you have not heard this master of song, grab this album today. I promise you, you will be hooked for life. ”
Shashona - Indie Showcase

“ The latest project by Batdorf is by far his best work to date, proving success, does not necessarily create a lack in effort or lack of willingness to cultivate quality. John’s melodies, lyric writing, vocal range and catchy heart-felt hooks have truly reached a new level. The new release includes 12 tracks, five co-written by Batorf’s long-time collaborator, Michael McLean. From the opening track, Don’t Give Up On Dreams, incorporating mandolin (as in several other tracks on the record), to the string-accompanied arrangements in Forgotten, to the rocking title track, One Last Wish, this project has both a contemporary and roots feel, keeping the progressions interesting, while breaking up the tempos to keep the project flowing smoothly. Hats off to this great project, One Last Wish, that truly is a pleasure to listen to and will certainly bring added respect to the brilliant songwriter John Batdorf is. Tom Tranchilla Host: Songwriter’s Studio, KPFT 90.1, Houston, TX”
Tom Tranchilla - DJ Review

“With "One Last Wish," John Batdorf ... once again succeeds in sharing his life with us through this moving series of songs. At times confessional, other times full of love and joy, John straddles the emotions we all feel as life continues to move forward, throwing us home run balls and nasty curves alike. Among the highlights of this generally strong set are Don't Give Up on Dreams, Real Life, Can You Hear Me and One Last Wish. A couple of notable things: this CD is really much more "acoustic" then some of his more recent recordings. While there are some rockin' tunes on his previous works, this CD is more laid back and pensive. Having said that, this may his best-produced record ever. The music and instrumentation are pristine, harmonies lush, and his voice clear and strong. Lyrics are deeply personal and reflective...as you catch up with John, through his health challenges and family celebrations & concerns, one can understand how this may be his most personal work in a long career.”
The Soft Needle - Amazon.com

“Old Man Dreamin' is an incredibly vibrant set of songs based in honest thought, word- and song craft and some of the prettiest melodies you're likely to find in Folk or Pop music.”
Wildly's World

“Enough horseshit that people over fifty can’t write and perform vital material, that the audience should just retire. People are hungry for fulfilling new music. And John Batdorf has delivered it.”
Bob Lefsetz - Bob Lefsetz Letter

“John Batdorf is a master storyteller and this album is a treasure trove of genuineness and truth. The beauty and purity of the vocals are breathtaking and mesmerizing. I highly recommend this album to anyone who loves music. I give Old Man Dreaming five stars. ”
Michelle Williams - AC_ Arts and Entertainment

“John Batdorf’s music provides a glimpse into the past, a haven for those who lived there complete with new and improved melodies, which soothe the soul. ”
Shannon Anderson - FEATURED MUSICIANS AND ARTISTS

“I may have a softer, warmer heart because of history, but that only adds to..it does NOT define the beauty that is the music John is giving us today!!”
Donna Baker - NA

“Expressive lyrics, acoustic guitar, and a catchy bass line fuels the fire on “Ain’t No Way” with its country tonality and moving beat. Fans of the group Eagles will want to tune in to “Old Man Dreamin’” by John Batdorf, as it is fused with well-written gems of folk/country style.”
-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team - Radioindy

“With all the fervor of a new artist making his first album, John Batdorf attacks the tracks on his new "Old Man Dreamin'" and succeeds. Fans can rejoice in the fact that John has made his best album ever in "Old Man Dreamin'." ”
Dean Sciarra - Itsaboutmusic.com

"If you listened to todays' show with guest John Batdorf.... He sounded awesome, his voice has not changed and his guitar playing is second to none. He was also very gracious and extremely down to earth. It was definitely the highlight of my 9 years at KSBR FM."
Bob Goodman - "Whole Nuther Thing" at KSBR FM

“Batdorf played this one number, "Let Me Go". John waxed rhapsodic about Stephen Stills’ guitar-playing abilities, he was influenced by him. It was AMAZING to see John work out. And his VOICE! He hit every note, it was so sweet, I was TRANSPORTED! And I was only TEN FEET AWAY!”
Bob Lefsetz - The Lefsetz Letter

“...Batdorf is running with the heart of a kid and adds wisdom to the old songs while adding wonder to the new. A singer/songwriter with more on the ball than a lot of today’s crop, this set is a welcome return home again. Whether an old or new fan, [Home Again is] ... well worth checking out.”
Chris Spector - Midwest Record Recap

“...Anyone who appreciates good music must appreciate John Batdorf. His energy driven vocals singing heartfelt lyrics, accompanied by perfect harmonic melodies are not to be forgotten. John leaves a long lasting impression the very second his acoustic guitar is in his hands.”
GoDigital on WordPress

“John is a seasoned singer/songwriter who has written and continues to write music that stays fresh with no expiration.”
Gary Brewster