Jon McLaughlin is a young, up-and-coming artist who is destined to be successful. The wisdom in his lyrics and sweet piano tunes could put anyone in a peaceful state of mind. Though he is at the start of his career, he has a lot to say. And though his songs may be flawless, they don’t necessarily come easily all the time: The tune “Anthem for American Teenagers” took him about a year to write. In any case, the album is definitely worth a listen.

McLaughlin said that music was something he always knew he wanted to do. When this Indiana native could barely write his name, he was playing the piano. As a freshman in high school, however, his passion for music subsided. According to McLaughlin, it wasn’t cool for kids that age to play piano. He grew tired of all the lessons, took a break and played sports. After a roller-blading accident that shattered his wrists, he had an excuse not to play anymore.

It wasn’t until his senior year in high school that the desire to play was revived. What resurrected his desire to play again? The fact that he got to see a different side of music. His church had a youth worship band that allowed him to flaunt his musical talent and let him attempt improvisation. This was something new to him because he was accustomed to playing classical music, which is defined and rigid.

Though there are many challenges an artist must face in the beginning, McLaughlin offers some insight on his personal challenges. “Things can be great, if I keep myself in the right mindset,” said McLaughlin.

He doesn’t want to become wrapped up in his image and lose focus on what he’s doing. That is, he wants to be sure he’s doing what he loves and contributing something positive to the world. Although he’s a fresh face to the business, he already shares some advice for other new comers: “Keep it an art, don’t make it a business,” he said. Don’t get caught in the glitz and glamour that comes with being a well-known artist. Stay humble and learn from those who have been there. Don’t try to be perfect and do things without any help. Also, learn how to be patient. Don’t rush things into existence, but relax and take it all in stride. Though McLaughlin has his own challenges to overcome, he feels “blessed to go out and write music and play.”

Messages can be important for a listener. When one listens to songs on the radio, the message can be the only thing preventing one from turning the station. But, what message does McLaughlin want to give his listeners? He wants to bring honesty and positivity to his songs. He also wants to be “blatant” about his Christian faith. With these goals in mind, we should expect good work and the Good Word from McLaughlin.

When it comes to his performance, McLaughlin brings up an interesting fact. Though he has played hundreds of shows, “every night . feels like it’s the first night.” He never wants to lose that feeling. One would think that performances became automated and concrete over time, but, according to McLaughlin, that’s not the case. The exhilaration one feels the first time can be felt near the end as well.

The self-titled debut album, Jon McLaughlin, is due sometime in the spring on Island Records. His EP called Songs I wrote and Later Recorded was released in 2006. This album has a pop feel with a message. The songs “Beautiful Disaster” and “Anthem for American Teenagers” are destined to be hits.

If you like Vanessa Carlton and Five for Fighting, you will not be disappointed in Jon McLaughlin. This album is guaranteed to produce great hits for the radio.