About John Saavedra
John Saavedra is primarily influenced by Django Reinhardt and New Orleans swing, a sound that embodies gypsy swing rhythm with traditional swing. His soulful voice and expressive guitar playing are a sight and sound not to be missed. As a local New Orleanian, John was featured as a guest performer on NCIS and co-wrote a song for the show, he was also contracted by ESPN for a live snippet of the band during Monday football. From french gypsy jazz to New Orleans swing, John adds elements from this gumbo of sounds to create a unique type of playing that brings people together.
About The New Orleans Swinging G’s
"If you want to hear some clean fresh recordings of some of Reinhardt’s best works with a slightly New Orleans flair, this sextet is for you. Like a punk band ripping into pop chestnuts, they’re faster, brighter, sprightlier and livelier than the originals, which is saying something when it comes to Django.”
- Offbeat Magazine
The New Orleans Swinging G’s embody the spirit of the classic swing era, evolving swing music into a form of futuristic punk rock; calling it “post modern New Orleans swing”.
There is no doubt, this fiery bunch has a strong voice in both New Orleans and San Diego. NOCCA graduate and New Orleans native, lead guitarist John Saavedra founded this band in 2014. They play at several venues in both cities, estimating about 40 gigs a month; the Swinging G’s have been featured on ESPN Monday night football, NCIS, WWOZ, Offbeat Magazine, The Syncopated Times Magazine, L.A. Jazz Scene Publication, WWLTv channel 4 news, French Quarter Festival, Gretna Festival, Hey Mister Jesse! Podcast based in San Francisco, and Rochester NY WGMC Jazz.
Their latest album “Hot Boudin”, was produced by Randy Crafton, a prominent engineer based in New York City, who’s worked with legends Aretha Franklin and the Mingus Big Band. Hot Boudin was nominated for best traditional jazz album of 2019 in the New Orleans most prominent music magazine, The Offbeat. They have recently expanded their travels to both the east and west coast. This new age bopping band pushes the limits of swing into their own fusion of unique sounds that vibrate with a passionate flare. John (guitar/vocals) along with Giselle (vocals/dance) provide an atmosphere that is both enticing and joyful for all who experience their music.
You'll often find swing dancers cutting a rug to this delightful band, merging music and dance as one!
Socials
https://swinginggs.com/
https://www.instagram.com/swinginggs/
https://www.facebook.com/swinginggs
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZRPTYUdXekLAPC0wVc3VFw