Jeff Campbell

San Francisco-based musician Jeff Campbell has had quite a year. On a whim, he entered the Guitar Center Singer-Songwriter 2 contest and made it to the online semi-finals. From there, he was hand-picked as one of ten finalists who performed live this past March at Hollywood’s Hotel Cafe, where his soulful, stirring performance of the original “Shut Your Mouth” earned him the crown. In addition to the win, he walked away with $10,000 cash, lots of new gear and two dream prizes- an appearance on the Jimmy Kimmel TV show and a 4-song EP produced by John Shanks (Melissa Etheridge, Bon Jovi, Sheryl Crow). American Songwriter caught up with Jeff and John to discuss Jeff’s music and his unforgettable year.
- American Songwriter

Jeff’s songs are ripe to break further into radio, TV, other media, and the music truly moved the audience. - Radio Crystal Blue

"...his soulful, stirring performance of the original “Shut Your Mouth” earned him the crown." - American Songwriter

With his acoustic pearl ‘Stop And Go’, Jeff convince(s) me of his ability (as) a great singer and songwriter. Two guitars, two voices… and after a first listening you’ll probably say … “Oh My God, what kind of magic did I undergo here.” - Keys and Chords- Belgium

There's always a lot of debate as to which, if any, Bay Area artists could be destined for real fame. Folksy balladeer Jeff Campbell might be a good contender. While his raspy alto is serviceable, but not exceptional, his real strength lies in songwriting. "Shut Your Mouth" is such an immediately catchy opener that it all but demands engagement. Even the slow-plodding tracks on this album manage to sound hip, owing to Campbell's odd chord resolutions. (Sonic Zen Records) - East Bay Express, Oakland, CA

Stripped down to bare essentials and leaving nothing for Jeff to hide behind, his talent is exposed. His voice is gentle and smooth but commands attention as well, the lyrics honest and real.

This album contains several great songs, including “It Stopped Raining,” an optimistic song pointing out that the bad times are only temporary, “Drive,” a cover of the Cars’ song from the 80’s that seems to be written for Jeff’s voice, and while he doesn’t necessarily one up the classic, he doesn’t do any damage, either, and “Laundry Day” that features an intensity in the guitars that doesn’t appear anywhere else on the album. The instruments and the back-ground vocals, especially on the latter half of the record, flesh out the songs, adding a little more depth and variety to the acoustic guitars. I was never bored while and listened, always surprised by the little touches that make this a well thought out and beautifully produced album. - Relate Magazine

Jeff Campbell has arrived with his brand new studio effort titled “Stop and Go”. The San Francisco native brings his blend of country tinged rock to a receptive and open minded audience that looks for a break from the ordinary type of music out there today.

“Shut Your Mouth” is a simple, elegant country tinged tune that introduces you to Jeff’s comforting voice that flows consistently throughout the entire track. “Something for Nothin” picks up the melodic pace a bit and is a very lyrically strong track that resonates strongly with the listener long after the song has ended. “Southern” is my favorite tune off the disc with its acoustic guitar flowing right out of the seams and Jeff’s voice providing an emotionally resonating tune that you will definitely grow to love. His music is easy to listen to, and follow along. Lyrically, he’s very reflectionary, and he sings mostly about good times. . I’d also recommend country music fans to give this album a listen, as this has a good natured vibe that you’d find in most country songs. Standout songs include: “Laundry Day”, “It Stopped Raining”, and “Shut Your Mouth”. Overall, he’s a very clear cut musician who is very straightforward in his songs. - Esente Center Stage

One of Campbell’s biggest strengths is his songwriting. Tracks like “Shut Your Mouth” and the melodic “Somethin’ For Nothin” really show this to a tee. On the latter, he strives for (and nails) a 70s sound that will make you stand up and take notice. That approach comes to the forefront again in the alluring “Leftside,” which I could see being a big hit at AC Radio. Campbell is not an artist to be honed in on any one particular style, however. “4th Street” is a cut that could work on Americana radio, and “Do I Get A Moment” is a beautiful piece of music, with some gorgeous harmonies from Larissa Waters. Add all that to a cover of Ric Ocasek’s “Drive,” and you’ve got an album that will leave you wanting more. That’s what it did to me! - Chuck Dauphin