When Jonny Diaz headed off to Florida State University on a baseball scholarship in the fall of 2002, he was prepared to focus his time and efforts on his athletic skills. However, God had other plans and He began a work in Jonny’s life that led him to put down his bat and glove and instead, pick up his guitar. When you discover that Jonny was the fourth of four brothers to attend college on a baseball scholarship and that two of his brothers have played ball at a professional level (Matt Diaz is currently the left fielder for the Atlanta Braves), you can begin to understand the enormity of this decision. But, with God opening the doors, Jonny embarked on an exciting new adventure. Since then, his tremendous songwriting talents, his vocal and guitar playing skills, and his ability to connect with his audiences, have sparked a grassroots buzz that has taken his music nationwide.
Jonny’s debut album, Shades of White, released August 2003 as he entered his sophomore year of college and is a project that continues to impact thousands of lives each year. He released the follow-up CD, Everyday God, during his senior year of college. His sophomore effort offers an even fuller and richer sound than Shades of White, yet maintains the acoustic vibe and melodic style that made his first project so popular.
For his third CD, Jonny traveled to Nashville to record with producer Mitch Dane (Jars of Clay, Bebo Norman). They Need Love released in March 2007 and immediately caught the attention of radio stations across the country, thanks to his song “Hold Me,” which hit the top 40 charts in 2008. There’s no question that Jonny’s lyrics, music, and production thus far represent his growth as a musician and in his walk with God.
Released in February 2009, Jonny will share his newest CD, Stand for You, which is already receiving national attention. Produced by Steve Wilson (Hawk Nelson, Jeremy Camp, Josh Wilson), this aptly descriptive and intelligent pop effort reveals lyrics, melodies and instrumentation that go far deeper than the stereotypical pop hit. With all songs written or co-written by Jonny, Stand For You captivatingly illuminates Jonny’s heart – a heart that is passionate about reaching his generation with the message of God’s love, forgiveness, and grace.
“Stand For You is a call to boldness,” Jonny explains. “Scripture tells us that Christ was the fullness of truth and love, yet so much that is ungodly has crept its way into our society and I think it's time to take a stand. We can be both loving and unwavering at the same time.”
Jonny has had the opportunity to open in concert for Steven Curtis Chapman, Mercy Me, Shane and Shane, Bebo Norman, KJ52, as well as numerous other Christian musicians. He has also performed at some of the largest Christian music festivals in the country (Atlanta Fest, Alive and more). Although he primarily travels as an acoustic act, Jonny has an amazing group of musicians who join him for full band shows. It has been an incredible ride so far for this talented and young singer/songwriter. He is ready for what lies ahead, as God orchestrates the journey of Jonny Diaz.
Jonny Diaz biography
CCM MAGAZINE says...
“With Catchy hooks, toe-tapping melodies, and undeniable artistry, the Jonny Diaz Band grabs you at first listen. A former college baseball player, Diaz does smart, guitar-driven pop flawlessly.”
BART MILLARD (lead singer of Mercy Me) says...
"The bottom line is Jonny Diaz is the real deal. To stand in front of 7000 people with just your guitar and your voice, and keep the crowd captivated is a gift. Jonny has that gift and then some."
MIKE SNYDER (president of Third Coast Booking) says...
"Jonny Diaz has the potential to make a real impact in our industry. He is a pleasure to be around and delivered when given the chance to perform."
THERESA ROSS (DJ for 88.1 the promise in Jax, FL) says...
"Jonny's sound is "now"...in an industry where many songs start to sound the same, i'm digging Jonny's fresh approach and his honest lyrics...can't wait to see "Hold Me" performed live... "
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