John Fisher has been a teacher at West High for nine years, teaching primarily Algebra 1 and math lab for freshman. Although he loves teaching students, he also has a deep love for creating music.
Fisher has an established band called Mr. Softheart with four members, including his brother. The band has a very similar vibe to 80s post punk with a little disco, a lot of variety and synth. He plans to strengthen his sound and have the freedom to create art.
Mr. Softheart’s music pulls a lot of the inspiration from British artists. One band that Fisher looks up to is called Baxter Deary (or the Deary Band). According to Fisher, they have a similar sound. Another band mentioned was Nation of Language, which has more of an alternative rock sound. Both of these bands have a very punk rock, grunge theme to them. A lot of other bands were listed that are also in the mix that help them produce their music.
With having a band, travel comes into action, whether that may be 20 minutes away or 12 hours away. Mr. SoftHeart has traveled from around Waterloo, Iowa all the way to the east coast. During this past summer, Mr. SoftHeart thrived by traveling across the country from July to August.
As Fisher reflected on where he gets his inspiration for creating his aft, he noted that he finds inspiration everywhere. “I’m inspired by this band from the late 70s or 80s, called ‘Suicide.’ A lot of people didn’t enjoy them, when they would play. But then bands that were, like ‘The Cars,’ saw a potential in them and would have them open for them. The Cars were super popular. And they were pioneers, kind of in the drum machine rock and roll the weird scene. And I just love that about them. And I try to make a few things here and there that kind of was a homage to the band suicide. But, you know, yeah, I look up to Alan Vega and Martin rev, the members of suicide. They’re cool, and there’s a ton of others too.”
For Fisher, his intentions are primarily set on music. As many question how it’s possible to balance teaching with being an artist, Fisher reflected on whether or not he wanted to become a bigger artist. “It’s an easy question to answer, but it’s also hard. I do love my job here, but I also mean my mind is primarily wired to just working on music, to almost a fault where it’s like, it’s honestly hard. Music is turning into a therapy session.” Becoming bigger is a thought, but it’s not that easy.
If you are passionate about something, do what you love and work for it just like Fisher.
