Where are you from?
I am from just outside of Dallas, Texas.
What is your earliest memory of music?
My parents had a compilation CD of soothing music that they would put me to sleep with when I was a little girl. I remember falling asleep to the sounds of James Taylor and The Chordettes, both of which largely shaped the way that I sing and I play.
When did you start being an artist?
Hmm, I’ve never thought of pinning down a moment. I always enjoyed singing, but at the age of about eleven, I began writing my own music. I would say that’s when I began the artist’s journey in an explicit sense.
How would you describe your style?
I enjoy writing songs of many styles, but the ones I gravitate towards most readily are folk and acoustic.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you often explore in your music?
I try not to be redundant, but I do find myself singing a lot about navigating relationships (not just romantic) and trusting through the journey.
What is the story behind your most listened to song?
I wrote “Remind” while I was going to school in California. I remember feeling like I could be doing lots of other things in that moment, and choosing to write a song instead. You can listen to it here.
What is the hardest thing about being an artist?
Making my own schedule and holding myself accountable to times of work and times of rest.
What’s the best thing about being an artist?
Making my own schedule. Ha!
What are your goals for your music career?
My main goal is to write authentic songs that connect with others.
What do you like to do in your free time (outside of music)?
I enjoy reading books and writing poetry. I’m in the middle of the Chronicles of Narnia right now and it is such a delight to feel like a kid every time I turn a page.
Do you get involved with charities or causes that are important to you?
Yes, last weekend I had the honor of singing at the Texas Peace Officers Memorial in Austin at the Capitol. Families and friends came to honor their loved ones lost in the line of duty over this year. As the great granddaughter of late officer Jesse Minton (end of watch September 21st, 1965), it was surreal to play some small role in comforting and supporting those grieving the loss of their mother, father, child, sister, brother. It was a heavy and powerful evening.
What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?
I’m a cat person allergic to cats.
What are some of the standout tracks on your latest project?
“For Giving” is a really dear song to me on my Genesis EP, released last year. I just had the opportunity to make a music video for it with my friends at Silver Lantern Studios. You can watch it here.
Do you have any upcoming projects we can be excited about?
Yes! I’m working on a project that I recorded earlier this year that is about to head to mixing and mastering. There is a lot more guitar on these songs than on my last project and as a whole it continues to explore some fun sonic landscapes. My producer Zach Sandquist has an incredible ear and it has been a delight to see these songs become more of themselves in the recording process.
How do you deal with creative block or artist block?
I keep writing. I don’t believe in writer’s block, as a concept. Not to say that I necessarily always feel like writing or even that I like what I write, but I think that getting past the art that is not good helps me find the thing I actually want to and need to say.
What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?
I have received so much wisdom over the years of walking this road. Something that has really stuck with me is thinking of the place my writing comes from as a well. Sometimes the well feels dry and I need to dig deeper. Sometimes I have to scoop out the sludge to get to the good stuff. Sometimes I don’t realize how deep my well already is. I’ve just got to let down the bucket more— painful though it can be, it is always worth it.
What was the best show or tour you have ever been on?
Each opportunity to share music with others in a live setting is a gift I don’t take lightly. One show that stands out was an opportunity I had to open for Dermot Kennedy at the Clyde Theatre in Fort Wayne, Indiana during his 2022 US tour. I did the show with less than 24 hours notice and on three hours of sleep, but the crowd was electrifying and I had so much adrenaline I didn’t feel a lick of nerves. Everyone on the tour was welcoming and took me in like family. It was a night for the books.
What’s been your favorite moment of your career so far?
That would have to be it! Haha
Where can people find your music online?
You can find my music wherever music is found. The best way to keep in touch is through my “Little Letters” community where I send updates every now and again when I have something new in the works. You can join that right here https://www.jackieminton.com/connect
