John Files stands as a distinguished figure in the Austin, Texas music community, celebrated for his multifaceted talents as a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, engineer, producer, and arranger. With a foundation in Jazz Arranging from the University of North Texas, John has dedicated over four decades to refining his craft both on stage and in the studio. His journey into music began at the age of 12, and he has since developed a profound passion for songwriting and mastery of the electric bass.

Operating primarily from ‘The Sipapu,’ his private studio in Austin, John exhibits exceptional versatility by performing and recording all instrumental and vocal parts in his productions. His musical influences are diverse, drawing inspiration from iconic artists such as Jackson Browne, Joni Mitchell, Rickie Lee Jones, Laura Nyro, Jimmy Webb, Lowell George, Elvis Costello, Steven Wilson, Roger Waters, J.D. Souther, and Mikael Åkerfeldt.

The ‘Sipapu’, Austin, Texas

‘Sipapu’ – A Hopi place of emergence — a sacred threshold not open to outside visitors

• The Portal of Life: The hole stands for the doorway where the first human beings came up from the dark underworld into this present earth.
• Spiritual Link: Pueblo traditions say the first true sipapu is a natural spring located far away in the Grand Canyon.
• Communication: Prayers and offerings can be sent down through the floor hole to connect with the creator and ancestral spirits.