What You Need to Know About Violinist John Eze Uzodinma II
Music October 24, 2022
John Eze Uzodinma II is the violinist you need to watch!
On Monday’s episode of “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” Jenniferinterviewed the talented musician, who combines the classic sounds of the violin with the modern style of hip-hop, R&B, and pop.
John even dazzled the live studio audience by putting a unique spin on the classic ’90s song “Poison” by Bell Biv DeVoe.
During his interview, the Madison, Mississippi, native explained his musical history and even gave Jenn a lesson in the violin.
Here’s what you need to know about the rising star!
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John told Jennifer that he has been playing violin for 20 years and initially played piano just like his grandmother.
“I started on piano when I was 3 or 4 years old. I [was] probably just making a lot of noise,” he joked. “But then I found the violin at the age of 8.”
John Got His Start in Gospel
John told Jennifer that his musical grandmother played hymns, songs that are specifically written for the purpose of prayer. This inspired him to play gospel music as well.
“I just started playing [hymns] and then I moved to the violin and kept going ever since,” he said.
Similarly, Jenn got her start in the church as well and began singing with her choir when she was just 7 years old. After she “begged” for a solo, they eventually agreed!
John Wants to Connect with the Younger Crowd
Though John “loves” playing artists such as Beethoven and Mozart, he wanted to find a way to blend this genre with “the R&B and pop we hear on the radio.”
In doing so, John wanted to connect with younger audiences who might not listen to classical music.
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When Jenn asked John how people react when he plays his unique blend of music, he said they are “surprised.”
“They’re thinking I’m going to play something slow, maybe Mozart or Beethoven, and I play line-dance or hip-hop and they start two-stepping.”
“Brings out a whole new vibe,” Jenn added.
John Is a Great Teacher
After hearing John’s music, Jenn was inspired to learn violin.
“I got my instrument too, hold the line!” Jenn said, noting that she has a variety of instruments at her house.
During the demonstration, John instructed Jenn to stand with her legs shoulder width apart, place the violin on her left shoulder, turn her nose to the “scroll” aka the top of the instrument, put the bow on the string, and play!
While John made it look so easy, Jenn took some time to get acquainted with the instrument.
“How about I just sing what you play?” Jenn hilarious said.
“The Jennifer Hudson Show” airs weekdays. Check your local listings.
