Jacksonville Porchfest 2026
Thanks for your time. So tell us in what part of the First Coast do you reside now, and how long have you lived there?
I’m down in St. Augustine. I moved here back in 2010.
When did you know you had an interest in music?
As far back as I can remember, but I didn’t start learning to play until I was in my 20s
Did you start with any specific instrument and migrate to other instruments?
I was actively avoiding guitar for most of my life, so I learned Bass, Banjo, and mandolin. I eventually migrated over to the six-string world when COVID hit, all my gigs were cancelled, and a friend found a funky old 60s guitar in the trash and gave it to me. It sounded like the records I listened to with my Grandpa and redefined guitar for me; that changed my whole trajectory.
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
I’m a proud solo artist. I play a fingerpicking style that emulates the sound of a full band: bass lines, rhythm, and melody lines. I also bring in clawhammer banjo for several songs.
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most?
The musicians who have shaped my sound the most are probably Merle Travis, John Prine, and Roger Miller. Merle’s ability to make a guitar sound like three instruments while singing on top of it all is such a magic trick that I can’t get enough of. John Prine and Roger Miller could write songs that hit you right in the heart, but were loaded with all the humor and ridiculousness of life. I love when people can bring those disparate elements together.
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
There are so many talented folks in this area I could spend all day listing them, and I don’t want to leave anyone out. As a musician, a lot of the time the only shows you see are ones you’re a part of.
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
There are some great ones here in Northeast Florida, but two of my favorites are Blue Jay Listening Room and Spinster Abbotts.
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
Jax Porch Fest on November 7th! I’ll also be doing several dates at Parker Flower Farms during their fall season, and I can’t recommend that spot enough; it’s beautiful.
What is the best way for musicians to network?
Be where the musicians are. Open mics, shows, events, business panels.
Are there any local venue owners/managers that you would like to rave about?
So many, but I’ve really gotta rave about the Folks over at St. Augustine Amphitheater for all the community work they do with Sing Out Loud. It’s a huge event that helps out artists, venues, and businesses alike.
Where and how can folks learn more about you and/or your band? Links to your website?
My website www.kirkwhalenmusic.com
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Glenn is the founder and publisher of First Coast Life. He is also a wonderful storyteller. Born on the 4th of July, he spends his spare time taking his camera and exploring everything beautiful this region offers with his rescue dog Callie by his side. He loves meeting new people and capturing the many beautiful moments and amazing local stories that showcase the true spirit of the area.
