Tippin’ a Hat to Tapp

EAST PEORIA — There is a hat that grips the head of a man so faithfully that when it doesn’t, it very well may throw the universe out of alignment, at least for one man. That brown hat, stained and faded, belongs to the head of a man by the name of Chris Tapp. “I’ve got like seven hats, but I really love this one,” says Tapp, and he can rarely be seen without it.

Besides being known for his famous hat, Tapp, 26, of East Peoria is known for his music. A student in his eighth year at ICC, Tapp has studied business among other things but has settled into his position as a music major.

“I want to know how to lead a group of musicians,” says Tapp, a student conductor and a performer in both ICC Vocal Jazz and concert choir. “I don’t want to limit myself in the music business. If I could write pop songs (professionally), that’d be cool,” explained Tapp, also mentioning that he’d like to be able to conduct an orchestra if the opportunity presented itself.

Tapp, also a singer-song writer, has a more direct aspiration however. “I’ve been writing songs on piano for about eight years now… I want to change music,” he articulated in reference to Paul McCartney and Frank Sinatra’s impact on the music world. A Grammy wouldn’t hurt his feelings either.

He recently released a four-song demo of his own original songs titled, “Out Into Nowhere,” which can be purchased from him for $5 dollars. The title is part of the lyrics of one of his songs in which he sings, “I found my way out into nowhere and I think that I may stay.” A great lyric, one may argue, but what makes it unique is the meaning behind it. “The music business is big. Finding your way into nowhere is very appealing,” Tap adds, “Peace[ful].”

Tapp explains that the goal of his songs is to provoke the listener to feel the way he feels when writing it without the same reasons. In other words, he says, “I want you to feel connected.” He intends to make his music relatable by “portraying emotion without giving the event away.”

His influences range from his relationships (which can be summed up with one word: love) to books he has read. On the inside cover of his demo, he even dedicates one of the songs to his girlfriend.

The next step for Mr. Tapp: “work on an album.” His hope is that from success of an album he’ll either obtain a record deal, or sell the songs and the rights. Ultimately, and like many artists, he’d like to get paid to do what he loves, “or be a rockstar.”

Chris Tapp has plans to rock some venues in November including Mud Puddle Pizza in East Peoria. To find where and when he’s playing next, his Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ChrisTappmusic has a list of the dates and times.

Tapp is a friendly kind of a guy with music in his heart and a hat on his head. The story behind either may not be transparent but with a little coaxing, he may just spill the beans.