Bill Chinnock – Learning to Survive in the Modern Age

Asbury Park legend, Bill Chinnock (1947 – 2007), as remembered by his son, John Chinnock:

“Since he was young, my father always wanted to be a musician.  Even though he never reached any fame, through hard work and dedication, he was able to make a living for many years and have a long career.  He was one of the founders of the Asbury Park Jersey Shore music scene.  This led him to record deals and tours.  When this part of his career began to slow down, he pivoted into a successful career focused around writing music for television. He even went on to win an Emmy award for writing the theme song for the hit show “Search For Tomorrow.” 

By being both hard working and also adaptable, he was able to make a lifelong living doing what he loved.  Sometimes it was on the stage, and other times it was behind the scenes, but he was able to pay his bills and live a happy life through music.  

Modern musicians have an advantage that my father never had.  In the past, musicians had to deal with record companies as middlemen in order to get their music heard, but now through the internet, music can easily reach the entire world.  In many ways, it is easier now than ever for aspiring musicians.“