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[su_quote]What are we worth without the stories we have to tell[/su_quote]
First and foremost, what inspired the lyrics of “Gospel truth”?
I was going through a bit of a rough patch about a year ago. Seeing in the dawn on a regular basis and the obvious things that go with it. I’d had enough and decided it was time to turn over a new leaf.
I’ve never been a religious person but I was trying to find something that I could believe in to get me through. Maybe something Spiritual?
That’s when the lyrics for ‘Gospel Truth’ come from. Its written as a conversation with someone Devine or someone that’s been a good part of your life and you know they can get you through the worst, almost begging them to save you from yourself.
That’s how Gospel came about.
How did it feel to tour with Jack Savoretti? any lessons and stories to share?
The Savoretti tour was an amazing experience, singing in front on 2000 people every night is something I won’t forget in a hurry.
Jack’s one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet and his team on the road were very helpful to us as well. It was just an all round great experience a lovely bunch of geezers.
One night me and my band were listening to Jack’s set and I didn’t realise that one of his songs he sung (‘Knock Knock’) was 1. His song and 2. a song I used to sing in pubs for years. After the show and after a few beers I was telling him about how I’d sing the song to pub goers for years and he couldn’t believe it. On the very last show he called me out to take a bow. So I walk out and once I was on stage he started playing ‘Knock Knock’ and he stepped away from the mic for me to sing.. So I thought it’d be rude not to and we sung the song together which was pretty cool. I learnt off of that tour – mainly to do with playing to bigger audiences and how you work that side of things.
What must you do before every show to get ready?
I gargle with apple cider vinegar and warm my voice up for a good 20 minutes.
I also have a quick word with my Grandad to bring me luck.
Best live experience so far?
My best live experience so far has to be the 1st night of the JS tour in Cambridge at the Corn Exchange. Me and the lads had never done a gig that big before so we were all pretty pumped up for it. We walked out on stage and 2000 odd people erupted. They didn’t even know who I was! Once we started playing you couldn’t hear a pin drop and between every song it was electric. It felt like we made a connection that night.
There’s also something special about playing to the regions. It feels like everyone there knows each other and it’s there special night so they bring there A game.
An up and coming artist that you would recommend in a heartbeat? Why?
I’d recommend Grime artist Cally. I used to work with him in a shoe shop years ago and he’s been doing bits ever since. It’s positive to see people you’ve grown up with progressing in their music and we’re both doing it in our own ways. I wouldn’t just recommend him because I know him either. He’s one to watch. Check out his EPs ‘Essex Dream and Essex Dream P2’Good to see people flying the flag for the real Essex. Cally.
So far where in England have you found the most inspiration?
Where I’m from to be honest. Hornchurch. So many characters that’s keep you on your toes round here. Great for writing and stories. But Cornwalls also a nice place.
How would you describe your sound?
I’d describe my sound as being Honest, Dark and Soulful with electronic currents rippling throughout. I’m the atheist who sings gospel.
[su_quote]Its our sarcastic wit and multicultural ways that lead to amazing art.[/su_quote]
List of 10 songs that you just can’t live without
WHUFC – I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles
Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc
Bob Dylan – The Man In Me
Johnny Cash – Cocaine Blues
Frank Sinatra – Fly Me To The Moon
Chet Baker – You Don’t Know What Love is
Joy Division – Disorder
Bobby Caldwell – What You Won’t Do For Love
TV On The Radio – Starring At The Sun
The XX – Crystallised
Personal mantra or philosophy that leads your artistic and personal life?
Something I always go by is ‘What are we worth without the stories we have to tell’
Makes me not worry about the bills so much and helps me delve into situations that would be worth writing about/sing about.
Any plans of coming to america any time soon?
None yet but when the time is right I’ll be there like a shot
What do you think makes the British singers stand out across the globe?
The best musicians in the world are British, Bar a few of course. Its our sarcastic wit and multicultural ways that lead to amazing art.
British voices have amazing tones and textures. There’s also something dark within Brits too that’s lends a hand I think. Captures the listeners imaginations.
Last but not least, what can we expect from Joseph J. Jones in 2017?
You can expect new music, new videos, more gigs. You can expect to start seeing a lot more of me. I’m ready to show more leg now. I’ve made a strong album that I’m proud of so I’ll be promoting that this year ready to release next year. So expect to be hearing my voice a lot more.
More of Joseph J. Jones
Show some love: The Hype Machine
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