Whether you follow @JohnCMayer on Twitter, your one of 1,000,000 fans on his Facebook page, you read his blog, or hang out in his community, there is no doubt that John Mayer loves social networking and his fans.  Put aside all the tabloid covers, the Playboy interview scandal, and the other “open mouth and insert foot” comments that have been publicized; John Mayer is a gifted musician.

During his recent visit to Oklahoma City while on tour to promote his new album Battle Studies, John put on another jaw dropping performance leaving the audience wondering if there’s anything he can’t do.  He had the theatrics with multi-colored lighting that swung down almost close enough to knock him over, a screen around the stage where video clips where played, the HUGE jumbotron and ramps on each end of the stage.  He had the amazing band he had put together which included Steve Jordan who plays with the John Mayer Trio. He had a multitude of guitars, amps and equipment.  However, his interaction with the crowd is definitely one thing that sets him apart.

John often put the house lights up between songs and talked to people in the audience.  He addressed signs by wishing people “Happy Birthday”, telling them “No, you can’t have my guitar,” and even told one girl “I would like to slow dance with you too”. As seen on his recent TV segment of “Storytellers” on VH1, John likes to talk between songs and engage his listeners.  With the multitude of young children in the audience, John kept his performance clean (give or take a few curse words in his songs) and appropriate for all ages.

The shows set list was a mix of old and new.  John told the fans that he was bringing “‘Your Body is a Wonderland’, not back from the dead, but from a long nap.” He incorporated songs from other artists such as Journey and “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers and he thrilled the audience with his encores of  “Who Says” and “Gravity”.  At the end of his performance, he put his guitar down on the ground and played it upside down.  There is no doubt that John is a master of his instrument and an incredibly gifted artist.  His guitar skills are comparable to the great Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Fans can’t help but gaze in awe at the giant screen behind the stage focusing on his hands as he plays.  It is definitely a “jaw dropping” moment.  John Mayer’s music, talent and personality are what make him such a successful artist.  He’s genuine gratitude to his fans is what makes him special.

Photo Credit: Abby Blunt