Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonavi
Hi Jonavi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was about 4 years old when I first started singing. My mom enjoys telling this story – she says that I insisted on being a part of a performing arts organization back when we lived in the Philippines even though I technically wasn’t old enough to be a part of one. The organization made an exception for me as long as I promised my parents I’d work hard and actively participate- and I did! At a young age I loved to perform, and even when I had a concert rehearsal and was sick with a cold, I still chose to sing through it. Since that moment, my musical journey has been defined by various milestones, from writing my first songs in middle school, to studying classical piano for 9 years, and then eventually showcasing my original work through my college’s music program despite not being a music major. Over the last few years I’ve been actively performing, writing, producing and releasing new music, and I’m excited to continue to refine my art and skills as a performer, songwriter, and artist.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Although my parents encouraged my passion for music, at their core they had very traditional views on what my career should be, which meant I couldn’t pursue music whole-heartedly until I finished college. I was a rule follower growing up, so it never crossed my mind to go against their expectations. Even when I got the once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in a music competition while I was in college, I ended up declining that opportunity and choosing to take a summer class instead so that I could graduate as soon as possible. It’s also taken me a few years to find my voice and musical style; when you grow up being a people pleaser, you tend to release art you think people will like, rather than art you’re personally passionate about. It’s been quite the journey to unlearn that, but at the same time it’s been super fun rediscovering parts of myself.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My proudest accomplishment so far is my EP, “Blue Hour”, which released in Fall 2023. A lot of these songs I had written over the course of 2-3 years; I wrote and produced a majority of the songs, and orchestrated the marketing and concept. It was a lot of effort (and expensive!), but I was so excited to do it because it was a testament to everything I’d been working towards. I felt like I was finally releasing something that was unique and authentic to me.
I’m currently working to release a full album later this year. I’m planning to take a step back from producing and focus more on writing, which is my first love (when I was younger I used to want to be an author). I’m excited for this project in particular because of how personal it is to me. The songs I’ve written so far focus a lot on generational trauma and familial experiences, and how that can impact our view of romantic relationships and friendships. I experienced a lot of change over the last two years, and what I hope for the most is that someone out there will listen to my music and find that they aren’t alone in what they’re going through.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Everybody is worth meeting. I think that’s a really important thing to remember; when you’re networking at these industry events, there is no person “too small” or “too great” to meet. Every person plays an integral role in creating and inspiring art, and as an artist, it’s important to find those connections of inspiration, creativity, and relatability. You can only go so far if you go alone.
Pricing:
- $250 for a 30 minute performance set
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonavimusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZhhYkst4OungQNLzmojsuA
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6zKX6Ksa6Yk5OZRG1Fk7vA?si=mYAVrPWUTV6hY_SCgBUHMA
Image Credits
DJ Oribello (Blue performance shot), Christopher Michael (She’s Beautiful profile shot), Headshot (lowkey), Peaches (Ganlu_ / lucy)
