Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Jessenation
THE RELEASE
With his innovative single, “Redemption,” on the way, Chicago-based artist Jessenation is bringing the heat for eager fans of his debut album, “GRACE: Genuine Rhythms and Creative Energy.” Jessenation brings innovation to his music by blending multiple genres together, from reggae and drill to dancehall and afrobeat. He also puts authenticity and passion into his tracks, and “Redemption” is no different. With themes of love, celebration, and positivity, Jessenation is ready to make waves with his upcoming album.
Showcasing Jessenation’s unique style with a feature by established artist Jesse Jags, “Redemption” has infectious rhythms and lyrics to make listeners think. The track itself explores overcoming obstacles and personal evolution, introspective thoughts that will resonate with almost anyone. That’s the kind of inspiration and uplifting message that’s reflected across “GRACE” and Jessenation’s style. “Redemption” embodies the essence of the album with music to vibe with and be uplifted by. With a promising break into the music industry, listeners can look forward to “Redemption” everywhere on July 12th, with “GRACE: Genuine Rhythms and Creative Energy” dropping July 19th.
THE INTERVIEW
"Redemption" combines a lot of musical genres, like afrobeat and reggae. What inspired you to put these genres together?
"Redemption" is a product of my musical roots and the diverse influences that have shaped my sound. Growing up, I was deeply influenced by the rhythmic beats of afrobeat and the soulful vibes of reggae. Both genres have a rich history of storytelling and social commentary, which resonates with me. Afrobeat's energetic and infectious rhythms blend seamlessly with reggae's laid-back, reflective tones, creating a unique sound that speaks to the heart and moves the body. By merging these genres, I aim to create music that not only entertains but also inspires and uplifts listeners, drawing from the best of both worlds to craft a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Your debut album is titled "GRACE: Genuine Rhythms and Creative Energy." How does the title reflect your personal and artistic journey?
The title "GRACE: Genuine Rhythms and Creative Energy" encapsulates my journey both as an artist and an individual. 'GRACE' represents the journey of overcoming obstacles and growing through them, a theme that permeates the album. Each track is a testament to the genuine rhythms of life and the creative energy that has driven me to express my experiences and emotions through music. This album is a reflection of my growth, resilience, and the beauty of embracing one's true self. It’s a celebration of the grace that has guided me through my journey, allowing me to channel my creative energy into something meaningful and authentic.
What overall message do you hope listeners will come away with from "Redemption?"
With "Redemption," I hope listeners come away with a sense of hope and empowerment. The album is about overcoming challenges, finding strength in vulnerability, and embracing personal growth. It's a reminder that no matter what we go through, there is always a path to redemption and renewal. I want listeners to feel inspired to face their own struggles with courage and to recognize that they have the power to transform their lives. Through the beats, melodies, and lyrics, I aim to convey that redemption is not just a destination but a continuous journey of self-discovery and evolution.
You mentioned that "Redemption" explores themes of overcoming challenges and personal evolution. Can you elaborate on some of the personal experiences that influenced those themes?
"Redemption" is deeply personal, drawing from various experiences that have shaped who I am today. One of the significant influences was my journey as a cybersecurity professional, where I faced numerous challenges and high-pressure situations. Balancing a demanding career with my passion for music required resilience and adaptability. Additionally, personal trials, such as navigating relationships and dealing with loss, have profoundly impacted my perspective. These experiences taught me the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and the power of music as a healing force. Each track on the album reflects a piece of this journey, highlighting the lessons learned and the strength gained through overcoming adversity.
What's been the most rewarding part of your musical journey so far, especially given the creation of your debut album?
The most rewarding part of my musical journey has been the opportunity to connect with people through my music. Creating "GRACE: Genuine Rhythms and Creative Energy" has been a labor of love, and seeing how my music resonates with listeners is incredibly fulfilling. The process of writing, recording, and producing the album allowed me to express myself authentically and share my story with the world. Collaborating with talented artists like Shank and witnessing the positive impact of our work has been a highlight. Ultimately, knowing that my music can inspire, uplift, and bring joy to others is the greatest reward of all.
KEEP UP WITH JESSENATION BELOW:
