SongVault Artist Profile

Immigrating to Pasadena, California, via a few years in Holland and his birth country of Indonesia, Werner Schuchner gained an early appreciation for music in several eclectic settings. His father was his earliest musical inspiration, entertaining young Werner with the ukulele, guitar and harmonica. It was taking over his sister's classical piano lessons where youthful Werner gained the knowledge of formatting and flow, and where he also marked the beginning of his life as a musician. As Werner grew, so did his musical sophistication. Inspired by the bands backing up Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin, the groove and the guitar became the main loves of Werner. From the 8th grade on Werner could be found playing guitar in numerous bands, but it was a gig with Richard Berry (the writer of the mega hit "Louie Louie") that launched his professional career. It was through his connection with Berry that Werner met and began performing with Charles Wright and The Watts 103rd St. Rhythm Band. Werner's stylish touch on the strings brought forth many future collaborations; including projects by Willie Bobo, Jermaine Jackson, Switch, The Whispers, and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, to name a few. The connections and chance meetings continued to grow for Werner. In the course of his playing in the Charles Wright Band, he was introduced to fellow musician, Ahaguna G. Sun. Through this meeting, Werner and Ahaguna formed SUNBEAR, recorded and toured the world performing in front of thousands. The latest collaboration with friend Juan Nelson of Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals is BIG ADVICE, a collection of soulful music veterans coupled with the fresh raw talent of contemporary R&B.

Currently Werner can be found in his studio creating music for films, tv, and commercials...as well as songs which can be purchased as downloads on several sites. All music written, performed, and produced by Werner Schuchner.