Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Jesse Jada Como, better known as JJ Como is an up and coming Singer/songwriter/musician with a penchant for writing infectious tunes and relatable narratives. Being an avid storyteller, JJ Como is greatly influenced by real life, drawing inspiration for his music from personal experiences, allowing him to invoke strong emotions in people. Apart from invoking emotions, JJ Como also seems to have a unique innate competency to ingeniously present music in multiple styles, all while maintaining a consistent brand, one of the factors that make this songwriter one to keep an eye out for.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with JJ about the music, adapting during lock downs, technology and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?

I’ve live in Nashville since 2008 by way of Brooklyn, New York.

I would describe my music as Alt- Country. 

How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?

I’ve been writing music since high school. I moved to Florida from Connecticut in 2008. There I met a hit songwriter that had two number one hits. He was from Zimbabwe. He inspired me to move to Nashville and chase my dream.

How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation? 

My last project “Requiem for a Red Neck” came out of dark place. I was going through a divorce and you can hear the melancholy through out. This album I decided to change it up. I’m working with producer Ben Miller and we really wanted to explore an Alt Rock/Country sound that I call Y’allternative. The goal of this project is really break out on Spotify and ultimately to tour in support of the album.

Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented? How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?

If anything the pandemic forced me to write much of the album solo. So you’re hearing a more singular voice. Musically we wanted to create textures that aren’t really heard in country music. We are having so much fun working on this album and can’t wait for its completion.

I’m really digging Harry Styles “As it Was”. It reminds of that great 80s track Take me on by A-Ha.

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?

I love spinning vinyl. I have an old Thorens record player hooked up to a tube amp. You really can’t beat the warmth of records. It’s a vibe that can’t be replicated.

Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?

My music can be found pretty much every where but I would Truly be grateful if you went over to Spotify and added me to your playlist. Also, visit www.jjcomomusic.com