John Bishop has been a pivotal figure in the northwest jazz landscape for over three decades, wearing many hats as a drummer, educator, record label owner, graphic designer, publisher, and festival presenter. His multifaceted contributions, particularly through Origin Records, have profoundly shaped the jazz scene, not just in Seattle but across the wider region. Bishop’s dedication to fostering creative artists and their music is evident in every aspect of his work.
In 1997, John Bishop established Origin Records and OriginArts, a graphic design and CD production company, with the clear mission of amplifying the voices of creative musicians. Recognized as “Label of the Year” by Jazzweek in 2009, Origin Records quickly became a vital platform for artists seeking to share their original music. This initiative stemmed from Bishop’s observation of the Seattle music scene. As he noted in a 2002 interview with The Seattle Times, he felt a need to ensure that visiting music lovers would encounter the wealth of original compositions by talented local musicians, rather than just standard repertoire. Matt Jorgensen later joined as a business partner, further strengthening the label’s capabilities and reach.
Origin Records, along with its sister labels OA2 and Origin Classical, has released an impressive catalog of over 600 CDs to date. These releases feature a mix of Seattle jazz luminaries such as Jay Thomas, Dawn Clement, Chuck Deardorf, Marc Seales, and Bill Anschell, alongside nationally recognized jazz artists from across the country. The meticulous design and professional promotion of Origin Records releases have become a hallmark of the label, fostering a sense of pride within the Seattle music community. John Bishop’s commitment to quality and artist support has made Origin a respected name in the jazz world.
Building upon the success of Origin Records, John Bishop, together with Jorgensen, launched the Ballard Jazz Festival in 2003. This annual four-day event shines a spotlight on Seattle’s historic Ballard neighborhood and showcases the city’s exceptional jazz talent. Over more than 15 years, the Ballard Jazz Festival has garnered international acclaim, celebrated for its commitment to featuring around 80 Pacific Northwest artists each year, alongside exciting and innovative headliners. The festival, a brainchild of John Bishop and Matt Jorgensen, has become a cornerstone of the Seattle jazz calendar, drawing audiences and musicians from far and wide.
John Bishop’s impact extends beyond his drumming and label management. His ability to excel as both a respected musician and a successful presenter and producer is rare. He and Jorgensen have not only created opportunities for countless artists but have also nurtured the jazz community as a whole. It’s virtually impossible to envision the Seattle jazz scene of the past three decades without acknowledging the profound and lasting contributions of John Bishop, a true Jazz Hero.
