Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacob Leon.
Hi Jacob, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been blessed to have a musical family, so from day one I have been classically trained in piano and cello. Early on I discovered my interest in writing my own melodies– or at least extracting the melodies stuck in my head and putting them to use. I’ve had some incredibly talented peers and collaborators that have always pushed me to be better. Growing up in Austin has also given me a . I would love to take this opportunity to thank my piano teacher Buffy Currens and my cello teacher Barbara George who pushed me to be the best player I could be. More than anything I need to thank my family for always supporting me and inspiring me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Growing up surrounded by talented and successful people was a personal challenge that pushed me to grow. For one, those with natural talent and stick-to-it-iveness are a hard act to follow. I’m not too proud to say I’ve been overcome with jealousy and shame at times when my work has been compared to someone’s who’s simply more talented at their instrument. Others have had the gall to stand tall on their stage and talk down to people like me who have not yet achieved their success. Not to mention the internal struggle that follows teachers and peers who have told me that I won’t ever be successful or ‘make it’. It takes a lot of diligence and hardheadedness, really, to continue to believe in yourself when nobody else will.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Above most things in my music, I am proud of my collaborations. I enjoy writing, recording, and brainstorming with other people. Being a part of a collaboration brings a completely new dimension into my work that I believe elevates my sound and ideas. When left to my own devices, my songs can feel like reflection chambers that let in very little light. I believe that with a community we can come together and illuminate the imperfections and the strengths we all carry. I strive to explore the subconscious and the latent feelings that hide there, so the light others bring can only uncover more beauty within our work.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
In terms of literature that has inspired me, I have to credit Kerouak with the most pull on my lyrical direction. His words uncover deep pools of emotion for me to reflect my ideas upon. As far as podcasts are concerned, the One Song podcast with Diallo Riddle and Baron von Luxxury has really elevated my listening practices and reinvigorated my joy for diving into the nitty gritty. The thing that helps me the most with my ideas and my thought process when I’m writing is being outside. Nothing moves the needle faster then when I’m riding my bike or sitting in my hammock with a pen and pad.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Maurice Vellas Painted the cover for my album ‘Dreams’
