Most people would be satisfied with a full scholarship to play quarterback at a Division 1 University, but for Jef Joslin, this road seemed more like a detour than an open highway. Growing up in the Appalachian mountains of Johnson City, TN, football looked like the most natural choice for those who knew Joslin. But he had other things in mind.
Only a semester in, he made the choice to give up his scholarship and transfer to Murfreesboro, TN to pursue a childhood dream of making music. Studying audio engineering and music production, he played the Nashville club scene and developed his lyrical sense and studio chops in the songwriting capital. He taught himself to play guitar, bass, keys and drums heavily during those years, allowing him a full range of sounds in the studio and on the stage.
After 5 years in middle TN, he made the transition to Atlanta, GA and very quickly caught the attention of manager Brian Richardson of B.o.B and Playboy Tre fame. Richardson took him under his wing, putting him to work with Grand Hustle producers and writers and setting up live performances that included a six month residency at Atlanta’s Smiths Olde Bar and an opening slot for Janelle Monae, Wiz Khalifa and B.o.B at SXSW’s Atlantic Records showcase in Austin, TX in 2011.
Eventually, a lifelong dream of living on the west coast of California came knocking and Joslin answered swiftly. He packed everything he owned in his Toyota 4 Runner and made the long cross country haul to LA and landed in his new home January 1st of 2012. Jeffrey wasted no time. Within 7 months, he had made more headway than most who make the plunge into the entertainment headquarters. Besides playing the LA and South Bay club scene, Joslin spent his time auditioning for NBC’s four famed coaches on The Voice, acting in a national Budweiser commercial featuring Jay-Z, and a lead role in Panasonic’s “GENESIS,” a short film showcasing their new GH3 camera. In November of 2012, he opened 222 Studios, “LA’s Most Laid Back Recording Studio,” signed with Chart Vision Management, and is now making his rounds as a burgeoning artist, producer, and songwriter.
Somehow in the midst of all this he still finds time for one more dream. “I always wanted to be a Beach Boy; live by the beach on the west coast, play music, create art and surf…I’m doing all that and more now. Anything from here is just icing on the cake.” From one dream to the next, Joslin’s art explores the idea of life as an adventure, love, and the pursuit of meaningful relationships in hopes that it’ll inspire you to experience life the same way.
In this spotlight interview, we talk with Jef about influences, the new project, and more.
Full Q&A, links, and a stream below.
https://soundcloud.com/jefjoslin/jef-joslin-sunshine
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
I grew up on motown and the beach boys, and gravitated towards the vibe of 60’s, 70’s music. The groove and melody is what stood out to me so that is always the main focal point of my music.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
I started writing and making records in high school. I burned them and printed the stuff at Kinkos. Really high tech stuff haha. I’m 30 now so 12 years or so.
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, John Mayer, Jason Mraz are huge influences on my sound. My music is designed to inspire, revitalize and ultimately give hope to people. This goal keeps me going when things are looking grim or obstacles seem to block my path.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
My new album is really a reflection of where I’m at in my life now, as a father, a husband and artist trying to balance all three of these things. Also a look at the things going on in the world around me like bullying, racism, etc.
What was the last song you listened to?
Can’t remember, some random song on a spotify running playlist haha
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
There’s no sweeter sound than vinyl on a record player, but streaming mp3’s is definitely far more convenient and accessible.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Spotify. I hopped on when it first came out and it’s how I listen to all music now. Apple music never gave me a reason to switch so with Spotify I’ll remain. I only recently started to use bandcamp, but I know its a very successful and useful platform for a lot of artists and listeners.
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?
Trying to get them to shows and accessing the funds to be able to tour. Also finding out where those listeners are to plan the tours. This is becoming easier with spotify’s fan insights and youtube’s analytics, etc.
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
I mostly gig in LA, but am now putting together some house concerts with hopes of stringing these into a tour. I also stream online regularly with fb live and periscope.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
Probably my website (jefjoslin.com) or facebook, instagram, snapchat. These are the apps I use the most.
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
Keep following your purpose and do what you love, and eventually you will find your audience.
