On a sunny Monday afternoon, John Mayer, the iconic guitar player, prolific songwriter, and seven-time GRAMMY award-winning artist, drew large crowds to USC’s Bovard Auditorium.
A Masterclass in Creativity and Authenticity
The event featured an intimate conversation and musical masterclass moderated by Greg Phillinganes, the newest faculty member of the USC Thornton School of Music. Phillinganes is a legendary keyboard artist with a five-decade career, having begun his professional journey in 1975 with Stevie Wonder as part of Wonderlove. He has since collaborated with musical icons including Quincy Jones, Dionne Warwick, Herbie Hancock, and Michael Jackson.
In collaboration with USC’s Visions and Voices, the event offered students and faculty a unique opportunity to hear both musicians discuss their careers and creative processes. Mayer revealed his musical inspiration comes from a blend of genres, including the blues and country.
The conversation as well touched on the challenges and regrets faced by artists. Phillinganes shared his regret at never having met Motown icon Marvin Gaye, and revealed he declined an opportunity to play with jazz legend Miles Davis due to fear of failure. Mayer reflected on how fear can hinder artistic risk-taking, though he did not cite a specific regret of his own.
Mayer recounted his early experiences with record labels, who dismissed his style as not being “hot right now” and suggested he be signed to Windham Hill Records, which he jokingly referred to as “the Yankee Candle” of record labels. He emphasized that his motivation wasn’t fame or money, but a desire for artistic expression and understanding.
Mayer described feeling “triangulated” after early hits like “Your Body Is a Wonderland” and “Daughters,” as labels and the public attempted to define his artistry. He responded by forming a blues trio with Steve Jordan and Pino Paladino, a move his label predicted would conclude his career. This decision, driven by his desire for artistic integrity, ultimately led to the critically acclaimed album “Continuum.”
Mayer discussed two songwriting approaches: one based on referencing existing tracks, and another involving “creative gambling” – writing without a pre-existing framework. He prefers the latter, embracing the risk of failure for the sake of originality. He believes unpredictability is key to the creative process.
The event culminated in a musical performance featuring Mayer and Phillinganes, joined by USC Thornton student Jaden Lehman, who performed “Slow Dancing In a Burning Room” alongside them. They also offered lessons on song structure, discussing musical concepts like asymmetry.
Mayer referenced the chord progression in Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams,” noting its intentional lack of resolution, and encouraged students to actively listen and analyze the choices made by songwriters. He concluded with a tribute to pianist Bill Evans, praising his intentionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the event at USC?
The event, in collaboration with USC’s Visions and Voices, provided an opportunity for students and faculty to hear an intimate conversation between John Mayer and Greg Phillinganes, followed by a musical master class.
What did John Mayer say about making “hit songs”?
Mayer said he was never thinking about making a “hit song” with his first record, and urged musicians to focus on making important songs that will last, rather than chasing current trends.
Who is Greg Phillinganes?
Greg Phillinganes is a legendary keyboard artist and the newest faculty member of the USC Thornton School of Music. He began his career with Stevie Wonder as part of Wonderlove in 1975 and has since collaborated with numerous musical icons.
What elements of a musician’s journey – beyond technical skill – do you think are most crucial for long-term success and artistic fulfillment?
