If you haven’t already fallen head over heels with Jackson Harris and his music, you will after this interview. He’s been to countless cities on tour with fellow musicians such as Cher Lloyd and Fifth Harmony, but his heart will always be in New York City.
Not only has he posted phenomenal covers of some of our favourite songs, but he’s also written many amazing originals and there are definitely more to come! His sound? Think John Mayer meets Parachute. The first time we heard his voice, we had so many questions. Luckily, Jackson Harris himself has the answers!
How would you describe your musical style?
Definitely pop but my take on pop music.
We’re absolutely loving your single “Dance with the Devil”! You also recently tweeted that you’ve been writing more songs in Nashville. What’s your songwriting process like?
Thank you! I have been working hard on trying new forms of writing and working with new collaborators! Nashville has shown me a new world of music and inspired me to be a better songwriter.
Of all the songs you’ve written, which song are you the most proud of writing?
That is hard to say…But I am really proud of “Dance Will The Devil” and my new upcoming single “Feels Like.”
Do you have any favourite lyrics that you’ve written that really stick with you?
“There’s nothing worse than waking up sober. We were drunk in love and now we’re hungover….” It is a line from Dance With The Devil and I love the image it paints in my head.
Describe the moment you decided that you wanted to pursue a serious career in music.
I was 11 years old and I had just performed in the school play. I sang in front of my whole school and I loved the energy of the crowd and their applause. I’ve been hooked ever since…
You’ve been posting some amazing covers of songs on YouTube for the past few years. Of all the covers you’ve done, which song have you enjoyed covering the most?
I would say it would be my first cover; which was Jay-Z’s “Empire State Of Mind” and to this day I just loved how that came out!
You’re involved with a charity organization, Musicians on Call. Could you tell us a little bit about the organization and what you do?
Musicians on Call is a great organization that brings performers/musicians into the hospitals and rooms of those children and adults who are battling some really tough stuff. I try to just go in with a positive attitude and a smile, and play a little music and attempt to make them forget their worries if only for a few minutes. Music can help and heal the soul.
You’ve been around the world on tours with artists such as Cher Lloyd, Fifth Harmony, and Cody Simpson. What’s your favourite part about touring?
I love traveling and I love playing my music for new audiences. Touring allows me to make some lifelong friends and learn from other great artists. I have been so lucky to work with talented people and I try to absorb all I can from those experiences.
If you could choose any three artists to go on a world tour with, who would they be?
Justin Timberlake, Ed Sheeran or John Mayer….or maybe all 3!
Are there any artists that you’d like to collaborate with in the future?
I’d love to work with Ryan Tedder is who the lead singer of OneRepublic and my favorite pop songwriter. He always crafts such memorable hooks and melodies and I would love to produce a record with him.
What do you think has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?
The self-discovery, the ability to make someone happy with my music, and the connection to the fans.
If you had to listen to one song on a loop for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Hall & Oates – Make My Dreams Come True …….it’s classic!
When you’re not making music, what are some hobbies you enjoy?
Traveling, Photography and writing poetry.
Do you have any advice for young people trying to build a career in the music industry?
Practice, work hard, respect all the people around you and be kind…Surround yourself with people that love and support you and your dreams!
Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans?
Thank you, I love you, and I will make you all very proud :)
We’re definitely excited to hear some more music from Jackson! Something tells us that “Feels Like” is going to be yet another hit. There’s no doubt that we’re going to be hearing a lot more of him whether it be on the airwaves or at a concert on tour! You can find him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Have you seen Jackson on tour? Are you excited for “Feels Like”? Let us know by leaving us a comment or tweeting us at @CelebMix!