Interview with Ramon Jackson
Ramon Jackson is a R&B musician.
Why did you want to do music professionally?
I've always dreamed of being an entertainer. Music has been in my life for my whole life. It's healing, soothing, and an outlet to express myself in ways conversation can't adequately convey.
What inspires your music?
My personal experiences definitely inspire the lyrics I write.
What things get you in the mood to write songs, or do lyrics come spontaneously?
Lyrics come spontaneously usually. I'm getting better at keeping a journal of random lyrics that pop in my head so when I go into the studio with my band I can catch a vibe with the lines.
How do you want your music to affect people?
I love when people approach me after a show and tell me a particular song inspired them to make a change in their lives. That makes this journey worth it.
Do you test out your songs before releasing them? How do you do this?
Yes. My home venue in NYC (Ashford and Simpson's Sugar Bar) is a great space to test material. I've written songs with some musicians from there as well. It usually takes a few performances of a song before it catches on. Then I get in the studio and develop the arrangements.
How do you prepare for a gig?
Lots of water, rest, rehearsal and believing in my ability to reach music listeners.
What is your favorite song that you've written?
This is a really hard question. LOL. I think right now my favorite song is "Been Kinda Rough". I love the story it tells of relationship struggles and how the harmonies hit the track and all the beggin I'm doing in the drive at the end.
Has there been a reaction to one of your songs that you've been surprised by?
Yes, for sure. My song "Braveheart" is about the loss of my mom and how our last conversation was her telling me to become who I am now as an entertainer. A young lady came up to me after a show crying because that song was playing when she wanted to commit suicide because of her own grief from losing her mom. She cried as she told me the song made her want to live and make her mom proud. I was taken aback. That was a very intimate moment she shared, and that's why I desire to inspire with my music.
What are some ways that you promote yourself?
I promote myself by hosting open mics, doing shows, posting my music videos on social media platforms, going to other people's shows and networking, reaching out to music venues and festivals.
What would you say has been the biggest challenge of your career?
My biggest challenge has been getting the word out to as many people as possible about my music. It's hard out here for independent artists.
What have been your favorite places to tour?
London continues to be my favorite place. The crowds are always very receptive. Paris is fun as well.
Are there advantages to being an independent musician?
Yes. The advantages are I get to control my career, my life, my music, my trajectory. It's really exciting to birth my own vision without the interference of some corporate big wig who isn't creative and can't see my vision.