John McLaren is a former award-winning violinist turned self-taught guitarist who has electrified audiences with his unique percussive guitar style and alternate tunings. Blending traditional and modern fingerpicking, his original compositions have wowed live crowds across North America. Presently he has changed artistic direction performing in a psychedelic/rock electric trio called "John McLaren and Friends". He’s shared the stage with global touring acts such as Jesse Roper, Gareth Pearson, Petunia and ECMA winners Campbell & Johnson. His debut single, “The Pathless Path,” premiered on the prestigious Candyrat Records’ YouTube channel back in 2020. Since then, he has released multiple singles and three albums over the past six years. His second album, "Part II," was nominated for Recording of the Year at the 2025 PRIX MNB Awards. Two-time Grammy nominated jazz artist Raul Midón hailed his playing as “Awesome!” and “Cool!” After a life threatening beating in March of 2026, John continues playing guitar and recently performed at the 40th TD Halifax Jazz Festival and also released an electric album with a trio called "John McLaren and Friends Live at Pattes De Mouche". An Eastern Canada album release tour is scheduled for the Fall of 2026. A "Musician well-respected in the artistic community" says CBC Radio Canada.