A Musician and Voice That Transcends Borders
Out of 75,000 contestants, Jon Varto has qualified for the semi-finals of America’s Next Top Hitmaker, a monumental step in a lifetime of music that spans continents, languages, and generations.
Performing live in New York City in front of a crowd of over 60,000 people is now a real possibility. For Jon, this is not just a performance, it’s a calling.
“I love live performances. It’s where I feel most connected to others. On stage, I can share my feelings and realize that we are all the same, all alive. Music reminds us of that.”
Born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Jon Varto’s early years were marked by a deep-seated spirit of resilience. His first guitar arrived on Christmas Eve when he was just six years old, setting the stage for a lifetime of passion.
“When I was 13, we lived next to a church. I wasn’t allowed to go out much, but I used to crack open the window to listen to the choir. Those voices, pure, powerful, full of soul, became my escape, my inspiration. Music found me before I even knew I was searching for it.”
During the Ethiopian revolution of 1978, Jon formed his first band with childhood friends. Practicing through curfews and unrest, they poured heart and hope into every note. This band later evolved into SEVAN BAND, a defining chapter in Jon’s early career.
By 1986, worsening conditions in Ethiopia led Jon to pursue his dreams in Los Angeles, California. There, his talent caught fire. He performed internationally—in Italy, Cyprus, London, Mexico, and beyond, singing in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Amharic, connecting with audiences across cultures and generations.
He honed his musicianship as a multi-instrumentalist, playing piano, flamenco guitar, and bass, earning recognition as a world-class performer.
His collaborations speak volumes. Jon has performed and worked with celebrated industry figures, including: Dan Sistos, former guitarist for Christina Aguilera, Varto’s music producer partner, J.P. Castillo, currently performing with Jennifer Lopez, Glenn H. Friedman, legendary producer affiliated with Robin Gibb, Decca Records, DJM Records, ZZ Top, Al Green, The Oak Ridge Boys, Atlantic Starr, and more, with over 50 years in the music industry.
Jon’s music has reached elite ears and has even been broadcast alongside Andrea Bocelli.
Jon Varto’s appeal is undeniable. His recent interview with Telemundo, the #1 Latin TV station, marked a significant step in expanding his visibility across North and Latin America. He also took home accolades with his album “GIORNI”, which won both AMFA Music Awards and International Song Awards
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“His music is cross-generational,” noted one reviewer. “You can feel the romance, culture, and emotion in every language he sings.”
With America’s Next Top Hitmaker semi-finals on the horizon, Jon Varto also has his sights set on another milestone—performing at the Global Citizen Festival.
“It would be a dream come true! Sharing the stage with world-class musicians who’ve worked with the biggest names in the business would be an honor beyond words. This moment means everything to me.”
Jon’s latest single, “Dime Que Me Quieres”, is now streaming on Spotify. This heartfelt, Latin-inspired track is quickly capturing hearts worldwide.
From his humble beginnings in Ethiopia to international stages and major competitions, Jon Varto is more than a musician; he is a bridge between cultures, generations, and emotions. As he steps into the spotlight for America’s Next Top Hitmaker and eyes the Global Citizen Festival, Jon isn’t just performing; he’s inviting the world to feel, connect, and celebrate music as a universal language.
Listen now on Spotify.
https://open.spotify.com/track/6L7USRvXAgUkqrGB477FJ8?si=BIrQ3OvATheKS-XuWP2HkA
Follow Jon Varto for more music in every language of the heart.
https://jonvartomusic.com/about/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-P9xBoUcEjQ&list=RD-P9xBoUcEjQ&start_radio=1
Photo Credits: Courtesy of Jon Varto
