On this Olli Soikkeli interview, Olli talks about how he got into gypsy jazz (he started off playing metal) and what drives him… GREAT story how he got started in the music business, playing with his musical heroes, his determination to handle a threatening health condition, some unusual influences, not taking himself too seriously, fitness, nutrition, moving to NYC, pizza and loads more. Incredibly talented player in a very difficult niche.

Olli Soikkeli is a gypsy jazz guitarist from Finland. He’s played in jazz clubs and festivals across Finland & Europe and has played with artists such as Bucky Pizzarelli, Stochelo Rosenberg, Tommy Emmanuel, Andreas Öberg, Cyrille Aimee, Antti Sarpila and Marian Petrescu. While living in NYC, he played legendary venues such as Town Hall, Herbst Theatre, Birdland Jazz Club, Blue Note, The Iridium & Lincoln Center. Only 29, he’s released 9 LPs, including solo works, trio, and a variety of other projects. His 2016 LP, Travels was included on the All About Jazz magazine & Huffington Post Best Albums of the year lists.