John Vanleeuwen, cousin of Patsy Cline, is a long-time singer/songwriter, and performing musician known for his unique vocal style, and authentic lyrics. His musical styles blend Americana, Country, Blues, and Rock to create a fresh take on the storyteller types of writers of old. Vanleeuwen's lyrics often touch on the dark underbelly of rural America; addiction, poverty, emotional distress and the triumphs that find their way through these stories often take center stage in his songs.
Vanleeuwen has been compared to vocalists like Chris Stapleton, with his haunting, demanding sound being a highlight in many of his songs. The sound though, runs a close second to his writing abilities. Vanleeuwen has written for many local artists and has recently earned a big cut (coming soon) with 2024 Carolina CMA Country Tour of the Year, and Josie award winning band, Stillwater Junction.
Vanleeuwen has been compared to vocalists like Chris Stapleton, with his haunting, demanding sound being a highlight in many of his songs. The sound though, runs a close second to his writing abilities. Vanleeuwen has written for many local artists and has recently earned a big cut (coming soon) with 2024 Carolina CMA Country Tour of the Year, and Josie award winning band, Stillwater Junction.
Audio/Song samples
FIRST RUNNER UP - North Carolina Has Talent
John was the Second Place WINNER in the 2025 NC Has Talent Contest where he presented his original song, "Don't Follow ME" to a LIVE audience and esteemed panel of Judges. The setting was intimate - with John seated center stage playing his rare Epiphone Excellente' Masterbilt. "Don't Follow Me" was the only original song to reach the top 3 contenders list in the competition.
The first place position was awarded to Abigail Theakston for her performance of Black Velvet set to a backing track - a song well known for it's driving sound and it's popularity, having nearly 350 million streams on Spotify alone. For "Don't Follow Me" to come in second place to such a powerful song as Black Velvet is a huge recognition.
John was the Second Place WINNER in the 2025 NC Has Talent Contest where he presented his original song, "Don't Follow ME" to a LIVE audience and esteemed panel of Judges. The setting was intimate - with John seated center stage playing his rare Epiphone Excellente' Masterbilt. "Don't Follow Me" was the only original song to reach the top 3 contenders list in the competition.
The first place position was awarded to Abigail Theakston for her performance of Black Velvet set to a backing track - a song well known for it's driving sound and it's popularity, having nearly 350 million streams on Spotify alone. For "Don't Follow Me" to come in second place to such a powerful song as Black Velvet is a huge recognition.
What's Going ON?
- April 4, 2025 - CBS WTKR channel 3 Songwriter Showcase
Coast Live, hosted by April Woodard and Chandler Nunnally recently welcomed John Vanleeuwen to perform a selection of songs and sit for an interview. Sign up for a VIP Subscription to view the FULL video!
Coast Live, hosted by April Woodard and Chandler Nunnally recently welcomed John Vanleeuwen to perform a selection of songs and sit for an interview. Sign up for a VIP Subscription to view the FULL video!
A SPECIAL THANK YOU
The Coast Live performance is presented to you by Tidewater Friends of Acoustic Music.
Vanleeuwen would like to extend a special thank you to the organization and Brenda Barkley.
The Coast Live performance is presented to you by Tidewater Friends of Acoustic Music.
Vanleeuwen would like to extend a special thank you to the organization and Brenda Barkley.
- May 17 at 4pm & May 18 at 4pm - John Vanleeuwen will be performing at the NC Potato Festival! You have 2 opportunities to catch him there for a solo set!
- May 11, 2025 - Vanleeuwen will be a featured artist playing at Morris Farms in Barco, NC. The venue is the largest market in the United States, hosting upward of 20,000 visitors per weekend!
What else is happening?
- Vanleeuwen is booked for filming!
Andrew Mack of Troubadour Productions is documenting the voyage of John and his music. Mack has worked with Cody Jinks, The Lost Dog Street band and MORE!
"We look forward to working with Troubadour and Mack, as well as sharing that material with our audience and listeners!"
-John Vanleeuwen
Andrew Mack of Troubadour Productions is documenting the voyage of John and his music. Mack has worked with Cody Jinks, The Lost Dog Street band and MORE!
"We look forward to working with Troubadour and Mack, as well as sharing that material with our audience and listeners!"
-John Vanleeuwen