
John Hanson
Sound Engineer/Guitar
BIO
John Hanson, hailing from a small town in Idaho, is a gifted singer, accomplished guitarist, and renowned sound engineer. His musical journey commenced at a young age when he discovered his love for singing. Eager to refine his musical abilities, John enthusiastically pursued piano and vocal lessons, establishing a solid foundation for his musical talents.
Throughout his early years, John actively participated in various musical ensembles, including choirs, show choirs, and the concert band. His dedication and passion for music were evident as he immersed himself in the vibrant musical community. As a sophomore in high school having failed at piano lessons, John’s musical horizons expanded when he picked up the guitar, quickly adding an electrifying element to his musical repertoire.
Fueled by their shared passion for music, John Hanson and his lifelong friend Ken Shumway embarked on a musical journey together, forming a high school rock band. Their synergy and musical chemistry were palpable, leading to captivating performances that garnered attention and praise. In 1981, John’s talent and ambition led him to audition for a college dance band, where fate intervened, and he crossed paths with the talented drumming ability of Brett Hart. Recognizing their shared vision and musical compatibility, the trio joined forces to form the rock band Vision, which quickly gained traction in the music scene.
With John, Brett, and Ken forming a rock-solid rhythm section, their collective talents and unwavering harmonies became the backbone of Vision. Together, they delivered electrifying performances that enthralled audiences and showcased their impeccable vocal prowess. Since their formation, John, Brett, and Ken have remained steadfast, continuously honing their musical bond and captivating audiences with their dynamic performances.
Parallel to his musical pursuits, John pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering during college, seamlessly blending his technical aptitude with his passion for music. This unique combination propelled him to spend three decades designing audio gear for renowned industry brands, with a particular emphasis on guitar amplifiers and pedals. John’s innovative designs and commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound engineering have left an indelible mark on the industry, providing musicians with exceptional tools to enhance their performances.
In 2004, John’s musical journey took another exciting turn when Troy joined Vision, which eventually formed the core of the band Toast. With Troy’s expert keyboard skills, Vision’s lineup was solidified, further enhancing their unique sound.
In 2017, John embarked on an exciting new venture as a sound engineer for the newly formed Toast, a renowned Bread tribute band. His expertise and meticulous attention to detail in the realm of audio engineering have greatly contributed to the band’s authentic sound and immersive live performances. Moreover, John has been granted the opportunity to unleash his guitar skills on select songs, further showcasing his multifaceted talents on stage.
John Hanson’s unwavering dedication, remarkable musical abilities, and technical expertise have solidified his position as a respected musician and sound engineer. With an impressive track record, a passion for innovation, and an unwavering commitment to his craft, John continues to captivate audiences and contribute significantly to the world of music.
John and his wife Laura have four children and three grandchildren. John is a Food Network fanatic, he loves to travel, cook, work in his yard, and socialize with friends.