Jon Wayne And The Pain

Jon Wayne’s musical journey has driven him from the frigid cold of North Dakota to the lush warmth of his Jamaican influences, with a few detours thrown in along the way. As the lead vocalist and guitarist of Jon Wayne and The Pain, Jon, with bassist Chuck Torgerson, drummer Scotty Zaker and percussionist Tito Miller, has created a unique sound that combines reggae/ska rhythms, meaningful lyrics with a set of irresistible beats.
Born in Jamestown, North Dakota in 1983, Jon started playing music when he was only ten years old. He began writing his own songs when he was given his first guitar and eventually formed his first band in Fargo, ND in 2003. After moving to Minneapolis in 2004, Jon continued to make music, forming Jon Wayne and The Pain with Chris Hicks in 2005. Playing music influenced by ska, reggae and dub, Jon and the band soon built a large, loyal fan base in Minneapolis. Chuck Torgerson joined Jon Wayne and the Pain in 2008 and the band released their first album in the spring of 2008. Produced by Mark Murphy of Wookiefoot, the self-titled debut was released to strong reviews and a growing a fan base for Jon Wayne and the Pain that has extended beyond the Midwest.
Follow Through by Jon Wayne and The Pain builds upon the success of the group’s self-titled 2008 debut album, once again showcasing their unique mix of reggae, ska, acoustic blues, and dub that fans can’t get enough of. This signature sound, referred to as ‘Redemption Reggae’ by the band and their loyal supporters, is one that continues to gain traction across the U.S. and beyond. With this sonically adventurous collection of soon-to-be classic songs Jon Wayne and The Pain are now poised to rise to the top of this exciting genre. Jon Wayne and The Pain are advancing up the music industry ladder on a purely independent basis. The band is in full control of their recordings and have been exclusively booking and promoting their own tour dates. Their efforts have been noticed by a few reggae-rock heavyweights. On occasion the band is joined onstage by members of Sublime and Slightly Stoopid, two scene favorites who have given the Minneapolis musicians a great deal of inspiration and support.
The 4-piece have developed a potent musical synergy that translates into the type of jams that reliably fill empty dance floors. Making guest appearances on the album are Slightly Stoopid’s horn players and percussionist Christofer “C Money” Welter, Daniel “DELA” Dela Cruz, and Oguer “OG” Ocon. Minneapolis hip-hop artist Yoni also contributes to the album with a unique indie hip-hop meets roots-reggae track. Known for crafting songs that not only entertain but often inspire as well, this release finds Jon offering an optimistic update to the tales of personal struggle from the debut album that allowed fans to gain a surprisingly intimate understanding of his motivations. Now seemingly at peace with his turbulent past, Follow Through presents a well earned opportunity to look back upon how far they come while setting their sights firmly on ever greater heights to come.
Summer 2010 will see the perpetually touring act working hard to support the release. Although the band plays around 20 shows each month, it is still not quite enough to satisfy the band’s rabid fan base. This endless tour which bears no name will wind across the western half of the U.S. until further notice.