INTERVIEW – Texas Singer-songwriter Jeremy Parsons

Born in San Antonio, Texas, Jeremy Parsons grew up soaking in the sounds of Texas music in the dance-halls of the Lone Star State. Jeremy was always a fan of music, but it wasn’t until his later high school years that he discovered his knack for it. Driven by his passion, he taught himself to play the guitar and began to write and perform music. Over the past decade, Jeremy has played all over the U.S. and in Europe, including numerous venues in Texas. Pulling from the example of Texas performance artists, Jeremy loves to interact with his audience. He captivates the crowd with his genuine personality, unique humor, and heart-felt love of his occupation.

Jeremy draws from his personal experiences to create songs that are keenly perceptive and meaningful. His first single from his latest album, “Things I Need To Say” was the Top 40 Roots Music Report and IndieWorld Report track, “Burn This House Down.” The song paints a poignant picture of heartbreak and acceptance that still remains relatable. It will stick with you long after your first listen. That single was followed up by the equally well-received, “Why is the Bluebird Blue.” It remains a Top 40 Roots Report Americana single. The videos for both songs were nominated and selected for numerous Film Festivals, including the Jersey Shore Film Festival, Indie’s Best Films Festival, and the Monkey Bread Tree Film Festival, an IMDB-sanctioned film festival. Jeremy currently resides and performs in Music City, USA… Nashville, TN.

How long have you been performing and recording, and when did you first realize that’s what you wanted to do?

Jeremy Parsons: I have been performing for over 10 years now and recording right at about 10 years. I realized this was my passion when I was about a Junior in High School. I was looking for something to do that wouldn’t get me into too much trouble and there just happened to be a guitar around the house. I picked it up and immediately got hooked. I was 17 around that time and by the time I was 18 I had written my first song. I was in it at that point. I haven’t stopped since.

If someone has never heard your music, which keywords would you personally use to describe your overall sound and style?

Jeremy Parsons: I think something that I hear a lot from people that I really like as a descriptor word for myself would be unique. I Think Americana would also cover it pretty well.

If any, which current artists do you listen to and respect for their artistic endeavors?

Jeremy Parsons: A lot of the indie/Americana guys for sure. Love me some John Prine, Jason Isbell, Brent Cobb and Ryan Adams. I have also always really loved George Strait.

Do you remember the first piece of musical equipment that you actually purchased? And which is the one piece of hardware or software you’re still looking to add to your setup now?

Jeremy Parsons: The first piece of musical equipment I ever purchased would’ve been my Takamine G-Series Acoustic Electric guitar. It’s been with me for 10+ years now. The one thing I would like to add at some point is a nicer electric, maybe a Gretsch guitar, and start messing around with some more cool pedals and effects. If not to use on stage that stuff is great to mess around with during some downtime or while in the studio.

Where do you do most of your recording and production work? And do you outsource any or all of these processes?

Jeremy Parsons: I do some at my house but that is mainly demos or when I’m trying to get a song down or out and completed. Most of my actual production I release is done at my producer Michael Flanders’ house out on Old Hickory Lake. He’s got a really vibey spot out there and he really understands me and my sound.

Studio work and music creation, or performing and interacting with a live audience, which do you prefer?

Jeremy Parsons: They are all so different and so great. I love the production and creation part because you get to bring something to life that you care about so much. I think that connecting with the people in a live audience though is a feeling on a whole other level. I would have to say that one. When people are singing along and dancing with you and being a part of what you love to do so much you get to bond with them on some amazing chemical and physical level and you carry those moments with you the rest of your career and life. And hope they do too.

Which one of your original songs currently gets your emotion and adrenalin pumping the most? What’s its back story?

Jeremy Parsons: It’s actually a song that has more recently been written and has yet to be produced and released. It’s called “Things To Come.” I had just gotten out of a serious relationship and was dealing with family stuff and needed to do some serious soul searching. An opportunity arose to go out to California to get away and do some writing and networking, so I went. I had the craziest and best time out there. I made some new friends, lost some old ones, bonded deeper with people I love, lost my phone. It was amazing. I wanted to write a song about the trip so bad but never could quite do it justice. Then one day I sat down and it poured out of me in this weirdly broad yet precise manner. It’s about looking back on moments fondly while looking forward to exciting times ahead. It’s one of my favorite things I’ve ever written and I can’t wait to share it with y’all.

Is there a particular song in your catalog on which you feel you’ve delivered your most perfect performance, technically and emotionally? And is there maybe one song that you keep thinking you should have done differently in some way?

Jeremy Parsons: I can say that I am very much a perfectionist and really hard on myself when it comes to this. To the latter I have no song that I would’ve done differently. Everything I’ve ever put out was right where I feel it should’ve been, otherwise you probably would’ve never heard it. And the song that I feel came out emotionally flawless would be “After All These Years” on my latest record “Things I Need To Say.” We were able to dig painfully deep and perfectly capture the feeling that existed when that song was written.

Could you describe your creative process? What do you usually start with and how do you go about shaping these ideas into a song?

Jeremy Parsons: I’ve always felt that I am extremely lucky when it comes to this. I don’t just get an idea in the form of a line. I get it with the words and the music all at once. All I’ve ever had to do is find it on the guitar and bring the rest of it to fruition. Sometimes I will start from scratch but it usually just all comes pouring out.

What were your main compositional, performance and production challenges in the beginning of your career and how have they changed over time?

Jeremy Parsons: I feel like my main challenges have always been getting out of my own head. I still struggle with it these days too but I feel like the more I play, sing, and write the more confident and well equipped I am. It’s always been such a mental game for me.

What are currently some of the most important tools and/or instruments you’re using in creating your sound?

Jeremy Parsons: I’m really into the analog sound and the less is more concept. I don’t think you need to overload a track with a bunch of noises and sound effects, unless of course it just makes sense for the track. If the song itself already has so much to say and pay attention to though it’s already doing a lot of the work. It’s all about being complimentary and filling up the little bit of empty spaces. It’s like an audio version of interior design.

How essential do you think video is in relation to your music? Do you have a video you would suggest fans see, to get a better understanding of your craft?

Jeremy Parsons: I think video is essential for a lot of reasons. It adds a whole other platform in which people can connect with you and your songs. It also lets people see the person behind the voice which they don’t always get to do unless they happen upon you at a live show. I have two videos both which I love very much done by the awesome PJ Schenkel of Three Hat Media. I recommend you go check both out if you’d like. “Burn This House Down” and “Why Is The Bluebird Blue.”

What’s your view on the role and function of music as political and/or social vehicles – and do you try and affront any of these themes in your work, or are you purely interested in music as an expression of artistry and entertainment?

Jeremy Parsons: I believe music serves a very vital purpose when it comes to this. We all have our beliefs and different ways of expressing them. I wouldn’t say I’m as heavily involved as some but I do try to make my point and state my case as subtly as possible when it feels right. I think the expression of artistry and entertainment and the political side go hand in hand. We sing what we think and what other people discuss. It’s a natural thing to write about the goings on in the world.

With more and more musicians creating and releasing music on their own, what are your feelings on how the music business works right now with all the digital platforms and streaming services? What are the pros and cons in your opinion?

Jeremy Parsons: I think the music business is more indie artist driven then it’s ever been and as an indie artist I think this is great. There’s so many platforms to get your music out there to the public and that’s what it’s all about. Sure you’re not making millions but I think that’s an unrealistic stance to take if you truly love your craft. Like I always say can’t put a price on getting to do what you love. I can’t think of any rational cons with all that being said.

What would you consider a successful, proud or high point in your endeavors so far?

Jeremy Parsons: I’ve been lucky enough to have a few in my career so far. One of my favorite memorable moments though was getting to open up for the late great George Jones in Houston, TX at the Arena Theatre. That was the first time I actually had the thought, “Man, I could probably do this for a living!”

Do you consider Internet and all the social media websites as fundamental in building a career in music today, and what is your personal relationship with the new technology at hand?

Jeremy Parsons: I do believe it’s very important. I like to look at it as a window that people can look through to get a better understanding of you not only as an artist but as a person in general. I love the new technology! I think anything that lets you get to be expressive, goofy, and artistic in so many ways is always a win win.

What is the best piece of advice regarding the music business that you actually followed so far, and what is the advice you didn’t follow, but now know for sure that you should have?

Jeremy Parsons: The advice that I have followed so far and has served me right was simply, stay with it. This is not an easy industry to be a part of and there is a lot of people doing what you do. There’s only one you though. You just have to keep on keeping on. I don’t think I have anything for the latter to be honest. I’ve always gone with my gut and have pretty great people around me.

Reaching audiences usually involves exploiting media opportunities, and possibly working with a PR company. What’s your perspective on the promotion opportunities available to indie artists today? Are there any specific improvements you’d like to see?

Jeremy Parsons: I think we’ve come a long way. Pretty much anyone can seek out promotion opportunities if they desire. I’m grateful for it. Seems like a perfect time to shout out Michael Stover. He’s the best. I can’t think of any improvements off the top of my head but it will be really cool to watch and be a part of the growth and progress of it all.

Do you have a specific musical vision hidden somewhere in your closet, or mind, that you haven’t yet been able to realise for technical, financial, or other reasons?

Jeremy Parsons: I think the only thing I want to do that I haven’t been able to do because of finances is release everything I have out on Vinyl Record as well. I’ve done Vinyl singles but I’ve never been able to afford putting everything on Vinyl after having to cover all the production costs and other necessary things.

Could you tell us something about your latest release, and where fans can find it?

Jeremy Parsons: My latest album release is called “Things I Need To Say” and it is my favorite thing I have made to date. You can find it on all the digital outlets and on my website www.jeremyparsonsmusic.com. Give it a listen and let me know what you think and what your favorite song is!