In this interview feature, we chat with Armond Jason about his newest project, his influences, navigating the digital music sphere and much more.
Full Q&A along with links and streams below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into you, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
Well, in general I have always liked various categories of music. What pushed me to combine various techniques together was when Linkin Park came out. I always enjoyed the Rock/Rap mixture so I said to myself, “I need to come up with something innovative!” So after some time I created my own style of music.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
That’s a tricky question… Once I became a solo artist, I just put my toes in the water because I had a lot to learn and was still trying to figure out MY sound. So, it was not until November of 2016 that I decide to really go full force as an artist.
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
When it comes to music, just about anything can influence me. Not only do old school artists and new school influence me but also situations to release stress. Motivation for me to keep going is tough. Many times I felt like giving up but there are few people who say I shouldn’t because of how far I’ve come. Also, personally I want to see myself win Grammys and make history so I keep going.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
With this album I’m aiming to accomplish some record sales, haha. But for real, I just want to put music out that can reach a wide audience based on how I do the wording. Not only that, but I want to break into the industry with a new style of music and change the game.
What was the last song you listened to?
A track of mine I finished moments before doing this print interview. It’s called “I Feel It” and it will appear on the album.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Depends… Vinyl is a nice collectors item. CDs have the best design system because of their booklets of artwork. MP3s are the easiest to handle. So, I’d say all three.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?
For me, it’s getting on various platforms. It cost money to get big spots as a new artist since everyone is a musician now, apparently… People don’t realize how much time and money goes into being a musician. If you are out trying to do shows all the time or have a more strategic approach of paying to get exposure. Either way it drains the pockets until you can land a hit… And boy do I need one of my songs to be a hit. Fingers crossed though, haha.
Tell us a little more about your upcoming album, The Gold Album: Signature? What are you looking forward to the most with the release?
This album will show to people what I can do as an artist. I may not be the best in one particular thing by any means but I’m sure my creativity will outshine competition. I’m just looking forward to the people who take time to listen and give me feedback.
What’s your favorite song on the album?
All of them… Since my songs have their own unique sound and personal ties to what I’ve been through in life, I love them all equally.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
The link to all of my social media is through my website. www.armondjason.com Definitely add me on Instagram because I’ll post clips of what I’m currently working on. Facebook, if you want a conversation. Twitter to help spread the word!
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
I want to shout out everyone who believes in my music thus far, it means a lot. Some words of wisdom… don’t let anyone talk you down from your dreams but if you’re not getting better at what you do then you might want to try something else, real talk.