Hand Tossed Rock & Roll

June 10, 1998

If you've been in Orlando for a couple of years you've probably noticed the growing music scene. There seem to be more venues for live music these days, and they're booking a greater variety of styles. However, getting into these venues is still pain in the ass for bands. Most places are only interested in making a buck and won't book a band unless they already have a following. This may make good business sense, but it doesn't do much for the bands who are just starting out (a new band doesn't necessarily mean new musicians, btw). This is what distinguishes people like Johnny Love of Johnny's Rockin' Bistro. They do it for the love of it, and if money follows, great - if not, that wasn't the point anyway.

Bands: if you want a chance to play at Johnny's Bistro, send your promo materials to:

Johnny's Bistro
1271 Semoran Blvd. #153
Casselberry, Fl 32707

Johnny's thing is live music. For the past six years he's been opening his doors to local (and sometimes touring) bands, giving them a venue, a bite to eat and some good ol' Southern hospitality. It's no surprise that Johnny wants to help out the bands - he's been plying the drums since he was 7 and spent ten years on the road. He has played locally in a band named 'King Cowboy', and he mentioned that he recently broke out the drums again. Johnny wouldn't commit to saying there's a new band in the works, but my guess is we 'll get a chance to hear him pound out some rhythm soon.

Johnny also bakes a mean pie (that's pizza pie I'm talking about) and serves up cold beer. He got into the restaurant business after coming off the road and taking a job with the previous owners. He managed the place for a little while (which is when he started bringing in bands) and eventually bought the restaurant.

Johnny has amassed quite a collection of gear during his years on the road, and bands playing at the Bistro (which includes nearly all locally giging acts) get to take advantage of it. There's a complete sound and light system, and Johnny works the board himself. This is another rare treat for local bands. Good sound is essential, and lighting certainly don't hurt. Still, according to the bands I spoke to, it's Johnny's genuine interest in helping out that is his most shining attribute:

"Johnny is maybe the nicest club owner we've worked with in not only in Orlando, but all the other places we've played, which includes most the southern states and the west coast. He is straight forward, and books bands on their musical merit, not by who makes him the most $$$$."
--Joe Denillo of Lapis Lazuli

"After performing at Johnny's once again, I can honestly say that Johnny at very least one of the vertebrae in the backbone supporting local music. We had a great night with a big crowd, but there were other nights with lesser known bands where few showed, and he gave us the same support and respect. Johnny keeps it real and never lets us down. He really tries to help bands develop a following by hooking them up with shows with bands who already have a big draw. We as a band have much to thank him for."
--Weszt of the band Weszt

It's great that we have downtown - there's something to do there just about any night of the week. But when I want to just hang out, have a slice of pie and a beer while taking in some live music, I'm headin' to Johnny's. I dig the vibe in there, Rockin' !

J.D. Ashcraft
Born in 1880 to a coal miner and an alligator wrestler, I came to Orlando after the great depression to take part in the new media revolution that was television. Now, some 50 years later, I am still active in new media via The Slant. Der wiesel ist in der flub!.