Under The Influence: Barry Keenan’s Musical Journey
A Tribute to The Beatles
Barry Keenan’s story is one of passion, creativity, and inspiration drawn from the legendary Beatles, whose influence shaped his trajectory as a musician, songwriter, and producer. It is a tale of evolution—starting as a devoted admirer, becoming an independent creator, and ultimately paying tribute to the band that defined modern music.
The Magic of The Beatles
The Beatles, often considered the pinnacle of modern music, left an indelible mark on Barry Keenan. John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s songwriting partnership, complemented by George Harrison’s exceptional compositions, redefined the boundaries of pop music. Their producer, George Martin, incorporated classical music elements into pop culture, transforming the sonic landscape of the era. Geoff Emerick, their innovative recording engineer, broke conventional rules, pioneering techniques that revolutionized modern sound production.
Barry Keenan was captivated by their artistry—songs rich in complexity, lyrics that resonated deeply, and recordings that became cultural landmarks. Each component of their craft contributed to Keenan’s formative musical years, embedding in him a profound admiration and skill set.
Early Musical Roots
Keenan’s journey began with the music of The Beatles. As a serious musician, he diligently studied their songs, listening to their recordings on the radio and purchasing their albums. The Beatles’ song catalog became his foundational repertoire.
At the age of 15, Keenan took a significant step forward by writing his own songs. His compositions bore the unmistakable imprint of The Beatles—familiar in their structure and elements, yet unique in their originality. These songs were not copies but bore the reminiscent qualities of his musical idols.
At the age of 19, Keenan secured his initial publishing and recording contracts in New York. Under the production of Billy Davis—known for his work with Jackie Wilson, Berry Gordy, and Chuck Berry—Keenan recorded his songs with leading session musicians in some of New York’s most prestigious recording studios.
The Los Angeles Chapter
Keenan’s move to Los Angeles marked a pivotal shift in his career. What began as a session musician’s role unexpectedly led to owning a recording studio. Though initially lacking engineering knowledge and production skills, Keenan undertook the challenge of self-teaching, honing his expertise by recording his own songs.
Through this self-driven learning process, Keenan discovered the advanced recording techniques employed by Geoff Emerick. These techniques became integral to his own music production. Inspired by George Martin’s orchestral arrangements in songs like “Yesterday,” “Eleanor Rigby,” and “Good Night,” Keenan began incorporating string quartets, octets, and full orchestras into his work. The advent of synthesizers further enriched his productions, enabling him to merge classical influences with modern technology.
Keenan gained significant recognition in Hollywood with his band, Invisible Poet Kings, performing at some of the city's most renowned venues, such as The Roxy, Whiskey-a-Go-Go, and The Troubadour. Additionally, he was regularly featured and heard on the world-famous KROQ radio station.
From Musician to Engineer and Producer
Keenan’s passion for recording evolved into a career as an independent recording engineer in Hollywood. He worked on music for some of the world’s top acts, translating his creative vision into professional projects. Owning three recording studios in Los Angeles, he expanded his scope to producing other artists, sharing his expertise and artistic sensibilities.
Despite this success, Keenan faced challenges in promoting his own music. His strong influence from The Beatles, while a source of praise, also became a limiting factor. The monumental stature of The Beatles in modern music meant that comparisons were inevitable, and these comparisons often overshadowed his individual accomplishments. As Keenan acknowledges, no one can surpass what The Beatles achieved; they remain unparalleled.
A Tribute Reimagined
In curating his show, Keenan embraced The Beatles’ influence while striving for originality. He approached their songs as if he had written them, reimagining their arrangements with subtle twists. While he retained iconic riffs and ideas that defined The Beatles’ recordings, he infused the songs with his own creative perspective. Each segment of his show transitioned seamlessly into his own compositions, showcasing the connection between his work and the timeless genius of his inspirations.
Keenan’s tribute is not merely an homage but a declaration of his artistic identity. Through his reinterpretations, he demonstrates how deeply he has absorbed The Beatles into his musical DNA while allowing his creativity to shine independently. His show is a testament to how influence can be transformative, leading to new expressions and innovations while honoring the source of inspiration.
Under the Influence
Barry Keenan’s story resonates with anyone who has ever been inspired by greatness. His connection to The Beatles transcends admiration—it is a profound relationship that has shaped his life’s work. From learning their songs as a teenager to becoming a recording engineer, producer and recording artist, Keenan’s journey is a masterclass in evolving one’s craft while staying true to one’s roots.
By incorporating the techniques and elements pioneered by The Beatles, Keenan has carved out his unique path in the music industry. His ability to reinterpret their songs in his show and weave them with his own creations is evidence of his deep respect and understanding of their artistry.
True to the title of his tribute, Barry Keenan is indeed “under the influence.” Yet, in that influence, he has found his voice, his vision, and his place in the world of music—a testament to the enduring legacy of The Beatles and the transformative power of inspiration into his own unique musical identity.