John “Pinetree” Paynich is a Seattle-based multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter deeply rooted in Americana, encompassing genres like blues, jazz, soul, and funk. He leads the band “The Yellin’ Degenerates,” known for their dynamic performances that blend old-school blues and jazz with modern neo-soul and funk, emphasizing improvisation and audience engagement. 

Throughout his career, John has collaborated with notable artists such as G. Love & Special Sauce and Taj Mahal.  His performances often feature his bass-baritone vocals, guitar grooves, and harmonica skills, delivering original and curated songs that explore themes of hope, love, movement, compassion, inclusivity, loss, and humanity’s challenges. 

The Pinetree Music Collective, which includes The Yellin’ Degenerates, is committed to giving back to the community, dedicating a portion of proceeds from performances and merchandise sales to philanthropic efforts. Their mission is to harness the transformative power of music to spread joy and create memorable experiences for audiences.