Sonicbids Artist of the Week: Jetty Rae

Posted by Marya Mclaughlin on Jan 18, 2011 03:37 PM
Marya Mclaughlin
Find me on:
Based out of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Jetty Rae is a unique songstress with powerful and sweet lyrics. She’s already garnered attention from the likes of MTV’s “Needle In The Haystack” series, as well as the Lilith Fair where she was handpicked by Sarah McLachlan and Terry McBride as the featured local artist. With all this good press following her, it’s no surprise that 2011 will be a big year for Jetty Rae. We had the chance to chat with her about her first guitar, the work she’s put into becoming a great singer, and the importance of lyrics.


 

When/How did you first start playing music?

 

I started playing guitar and writing songs in high school after my mom bought me a black Washburn guitar. I would sit in the hallways at school and practice my new songs. I've always had a passion for singing - but had to put a lot of work and effort in to be decent. My musical abilities were never really talent to begin with - they started with a passion that led to a lot of practice! I still struggle to keep up with my talented musician friends.

 

What's the best gig you ever played?

 

I would have to say Lilith Fair was pretty awesome! I played at the DTE Energy Theatre in Clarkston, Michigan. I got to meet a lot of artists that inspired me as a kid, like Sarah McLachlan, and also share the stage with them. That was quite an awesome experience!

 

How has social media effected the way you market/promote your music?

 

It helps me stay in touch and stay connected with my fan base - to market to the people who want my music and updates. It's really great to be able to distribute online on your own terms. It's also a great way for people to discover your music through shared interests and mutual friends!

 

What's your prediction for the next big advancement in how we find/listen to/share music?

 

Sadly, the album is going extinct and the single is king. I can't see myself kowtowing to this trend though. The album, to me, tells a story that one song can't--and that's what writing is about for me. It seems mainstream is more about the dollar then making good music. I know it's always been like that but I can't stand the junk that's on the radio these days. Whatever happened to lyrics?

 

What's your next big gig coming up? When/Where?

My next gig is in Georgia at Young Harris College on January 25th.

Check out more on Jetty Rae here.







































Topics: Features

Preferred-EPK

Get weekly updates on articles, gigs, and much more!

Posts by Topic

see all