1. Thanks for stopping by “Po Politickin”, could tell us a little bit about yourself?

Thanks for having me man. My name is Jalyn, Im a singer/songwriter originally from the bay area now living in NYC. I grew up in a musical family, the youngest of 10, and Ive been writing and singing pretty much my entire life. Not a day has gone by where I havent felt an overwhelming desire to write something new. Its constant. Im always looking for the next creative high.

2. How was it growing up in San Francisco?

Amazing. The artistic vibe is incredible, and the city is surrounded by mountains and the Pacific ocean. Its inspiring. Ive lived a lot of places in my life, but the bay is always home to me.

3. What is your music background? How long has he been doing this?

My Dad was a choir director, and my mom sang in the choir. All of my brothers and sisters either sing or play instruments – according to my Mom, I was singing and harmonizing when I was 2. I always knew I wanted to do something in music, but I didnt start pursuing it until after high school. Ive been at it for 18 years now.

4. Who are your musical influences?

My earliest influences are Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder. They left such a huge impression on me. After that, it ranges from artists like Radiohead to Pat Metheny, ATCQ to Steely Dan and The Beatles to Coltrane. Im all over the place when it comes to music. I love it all.

5. How do you describe your music to people?

Its always a tough question for me given the influences I have. I try not to limit myself creatively. I write all styles of music, but the music that I perform is more along the lines of Alternative / Electro / Soul.

6. What image do you think your music conveys?

Its all about the melody to me. I always strive to create landscapes that are emotionally moving. Im a pretty positive and peaceful dude, so the overall image I try to convey is about peace, hope and love.

7. I was reading one article you did when you was talking about going green with your music? Can you tell me more about that?

After becoming a vegetarian, I really wanted to start being more conscious about the effect that I have on the environment. I started noticing how wasteful I was, and that even a small change in my routine would be a step in the right direction. There really isnt a point to manufacturing thousands of cd’s anymore, so all of my future releases will be digital with the exception of a limited amount of box sets that will include extra tracks, print and possibly vinyl. Everything will be made from recycled materials of course. Im also working on a way to power my studio with solar energy.

8. How would you define the word “success”?

When I was a 17 and trying to get a record deal, success to me meant money, fame and being on MTV. The journey that I have been on the last 18 years has taught me that a successful artist is one who is always striving to perfect their craft.

9. What are your immediate music career goals?

To finish writing my 3rd album.

10. Do you have any current projects?

Yes, Im collaborating with a few indie artists, and Ive been caught up in the whole remix craze as of late. The remix I did for Kanye’s “Love Lockdown” has been getting a lot of attention. Other than that, I am constantly in the studio writing songs.

11. Are you looking for an independent label deal or a major label deal? (Why?)

Neither. Ive grown accustomed to writing the kind of music I want to write. Knowing what I know about the business, it would have to be the perfect situation for me to even consider signing a deal. Its a dream for any artist to make a living doing what they love, but if you decide to make that happen through the entertainment industry, you better be prepared for it and willing to give up a lot. The business is so seductive. We are constantly subjected to the glamorous side of it, although no one mentions the fact that your favorite artist who has sold millions of records probably hasnt seen a dime from their record sales. The percentage of artists who are successful financially is very small. I would never try to dissuade anyone from trying to be a part of that small percentage, but I think you have to be realistic and understand what you are in for.

12. What’s the most important life lesson you have learned so far?

Hit records, money and fame are never true indicators of great music. Music is an individual experience. An artist can be loved by one person and hated by the next. Once Ive written and recorded something that reflects my true feelings, Ive learned to release it and let it go. As long as I am happy with the end result, it doesnt matter what other people think, good or bad. Its a journey, not a destination.

13. Once again, thanks for stopping by “Po Politickin”. Any last words for the readers?

My music is your music. I do it because I love it.

Download it for free here:
Official Site: http://recycledbeats.blogspot.com/
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jalyn1972
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/JALYN/48482565876?ref=ts