Idiosyncratic singer-songwriter Jackie Venson prepares for the release of her fierce new single A Million Moments, out now via Big Indie Records
The single combines Venson’s staple blend of blues, rock, R&B and soul to create a combustible cocktail that, when mixed with her raw power and warmth, is unforgettable. A Million Moments is instantly infectious, fusing alt-pop sensibilities with Venson’s undeniably impressive guitar skills to create something that marries the sounds of Gary Clark Jr. and Regina Spektor effortlessly.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Jackie about the new release, motivations, challenges and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
I found out in my early twenties that I pretty much am obsessed with music that has a strong back beat. I believe this is what draws me to the genres that I create, a strong, heavy, bass filled beat and groove. I like to groove hard.
What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?
My father led me here. Watching him play music, share it with a ton of folks via performance, the impact that he had on the community was inspiring. What drives me to push it out is to effectively do the same thing my father did but on a larger scale.
Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?
I draw influence from the people creating around me. This is why I love living in Austin, there’s always creation going on around me and that energy keeps me going constantly. I’m like a hamster on a wheel sometimes! My tastes have changed almost in direct correlation with the instrument I play at the time. When I played the piano I liked orchestral, classical stuff. Now that i play the guitar I like rock, blues, hip hop, r&b etc..
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
Yes, I wanted to expand my sound to use electronic instruments. I also wanted to focus more on the recording, the arrangement, and the effort spent to get the perfect recording for each song.
What was the last song you listened to?
Bad Weather by Aaron Stephens
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Vinyl or CD is best for me!
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Spotify because it’s easy and instant and almost everything I want to hear is on there. If I can’t find it there I go to YouTube.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?
Honestly the hardest thing is getting venues or music industry folks to trust me, fully see and understand the vision and want to work together. At the end of the day it’s important to surround yourself with a tribe of folks who believe and get it, this is a very challenging thing to build said tribe.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?
My new website is about to be launched, or find me on my exclusive Facebook group The JV Squad.
Anything else you’d like to add before signing off?
Thank you for the feature and I look forward to the future!
