Today we’d like to introduce you to Juan David Pena.
Juan David, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am a bass player, producer and composer based in Los Angeles, California. I grew up in Bogotá, Colombia and became passionate about music at an early age. After studying at a music academy and learning from different musicians within Bogota’s music scene, I decided to expand my knowledge in music even further. I moved to Boston where I studied Bass Performance, Contemporary Writing and Production at the prestigious Berklee College of Music where I graduated with honors in May of 2019. During my time at Berklee, I received the Outstanding Performer Award for my achievements and skills as a bass player.
I have worked with different artists including Producer, Composer and Musical Director Rob Lewis. Lewis’ career includes works with Christina Aguilera, Babyface, Brian McKnight, Diddy and many more successful artists. I am very passionate about live music and I often perform with my band Lithic. The Rock band is influenced by funk and psychedelic music. We perform in numerous venues around the Los Angeles County. Additionally, I am a Composer and Producer and I really enjoy writing music for advertising and commercial use.
I am very passionate about music and I’m always seeking to learn something new. I find motivation in helping others and I’m willing to go the extra mile in order to bring out the best in myself and the work I am immersed in.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Every chapter in life has different challenges, I have been fortunate to have people who believe in me and support me. They help me overcome challenges that get on the way and by keeping an open mind and an optimistic mindset, I am able to confront any struggles that come on the way.
Can you give our readers some background on your music?
I am a member of Lithic. We met in Boston and brought our music to Los Angeles. Lithic consists of Marvin Buessau (Drums), Jack Dinger (Guitar and Vocals), Stone Panunzio (Guitar and Vocals), and myself (Bass).
We love giving energetic performances, coupled with our unique take on modern rock. We blend funk grooves, blistering riffs, and melodic hooks, creating a unique combination of indie rock with grunge, funk, psychedelic, and pop.
I absolutely love to work with my bandmates, we collaborate to create music that has everyone’s input in it. This gives us a unique sound and combined with the passion we all have for music, it creates something very special.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I have been fortunate to work with and learn from people I truly admire. To begin, I have to mention my bandmates from Lithic, Marvin Buessau, Stone Panunzio and Jack Dinger. The band wouldn’t work if it weren’t for the work we put together as a team and everyone is equally vital to the group. Additionally, I had some great mentors when I was studying including Chris Loftlin, Bass player to Brian McKnight.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lithicofficial.com/
- Email: lithicofficial@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lithicofficial/?igshid=b55oqb5c8xms
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lithicofficial/
Image Credit:
Luis Zavaleta, Laire Aguilera, Sam Goldin
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