John LaMere

A seasoned solo performer with deep roots in classic rock, Americana, and heartfelt storytelling, John LaMere has become one of Key West’s most beloved live musicians. Known for his warm stage presence and uncanny ability to play “songs people forgot they remember,” John brings decades of experience, charm, and authenticity to every performance  

Born and raised in Glen Cove on Long Island, John LaMere traces his musical lineage back to his great-grandfather, who performed on Broadway with Al Jolson in the 1920s. At 20, John quit college after teaching himself guitar and began performing in local pubs—quickly building a reputation by playing nearly 20 nights a month 

John spent his early career fronting bands before realizing his true passion lay in solo performance. By the early 1990s, he had relocated to Ocean City, Maryland, where he played up to 15 beachside sets each summer and honed his craft through sheer dedication.

Specializing in “songs people forgot they remember,” John curates a deeply familiar set list that includes vintage gems like Jim Stafford’s “Spiders and Snakes,” Harry Chapin’s “Taxi,” The Hollies’ “The Air That I Breathe,” Tom Petty tunes—and even “Radar Love”—all delivered with heartfelt musicianship and audience engagement. His performances are peppered with lively storytelling and spontaneous sing-alongs, often drawing comparisons to a Springsteen-style rapport 

John believes music is about tuning into the audience’s desires—offering something for everyone, one song at a time . Known for his charm, he’s also a dedicated animal lover who donates part of his tips to the SPCA soul-of-keywest.com+1soul-of-keywest.com+1. Whether he's playing solo or joining fellow musicians on stage, John embodies warmth, professionalism, and deep respect for his craft and community. 

In 2006, LaMere began splitting his time seasonally between Ocean City and Key West—and in 2015, he made Key West his full-time home. Now a beloved fixture on the island, John plays five days a week at venues such as Smokin' Tuna, Sloppy Joe’s, and Willie T’s, delighting crowds with his blend of classic rock, blues, country, and nostalgia-inducing hits. Rooted in Key West’s vibrant live music scene, John often starts with his guitar in hand within blocks of home—and spends his time off listening to other performers, building local camaraderie. His light-hearted quip is well known among peers: “We musicians pass the same ten‑dollar-bill tip around forever.”