By Kieran Webber

On a chilly winter’s day I met up with Falmouth based artist Jordan Jane, an acoustic singer songwriter who’s emotive songwriting is nothing short of moving. We decided to meet in the quaint mediterranean cafe Provedore, located near Woodlane, Falmouth. As I stepped in a nervous looking Jordan sat and waved as I walked in, it wasn’t long before we started talking about music and his work for RouteNote (who are doing some really cool stuff at the moment).

I was surprised at how nervous he seemed, especially as his music carries a such foreboding honesty but after a pot of tea the conversation began to flowing, here it is in full below. Enjoy.

Kieran: So how did you get into music then?

Jordan: My mum bought me a guitar when I was about four, I remember I really wanted one. It didn’t take long for me to pick it up and start playing but I didn’t start writing songs until about 10 years ago. 

Kieran: What prompted you to write your own music?

Jordan: I was a really big fan of John Martyn, even when I was 13-14, his songwriting helped me realise I could so something like that. His songs really resonated with me and I thought maybe my music could too with other people. Weirdly enough I took some time out to play jazz fusion, I tried to be a jazz drummer. It was fun but it wasn’t what I wanted to do.

Kieran: Was there any particular artists that influenced your music?

Jordan: Definitely John Martyn and controversially John Mayer, his songwriting is really impressive. He is able to capture the audience he wants to capture. The opening track on his recent album, ‘Still Feel Like Your Man’ is so impressive. 

Listen to Jordan’s full RouteNote session here:

Kieran: What artists are you listening to at the moment? 

Jordan: I quite like Tom Misch at the moment and that whole scene, so artists like FKJ, Masago and Honne. Also, because of the work I have been doing with RouteNote I have been listening to a lot more local artists such as Milo Gore, Fare and Ronnie Cook. I have been listening to a real wide variety of music. I actually didn’t know Falmouth had such a big music scene. A lot of Cornish bands get a good local following but that is normally it, but those guys are doing a great job in recognition outside of the county. It has pushed me to listen to more local stuff. 

Kieran: Do you think there is a scene building again in Cornwall? 

Jordan: I think there is certianly something happening in Falmouth, it has an interesting culture. Obviously the fact there is a university here helps but a lot of bands are now opting to stay in the county and I think that is great. 

Kieran: What has been your experience of being a musician in Cornwall? 

“There are loads of unique and beautiful places to play, from The Rockpool down in Gwithian to St.Agnes”

Jordan: I think there is certianly a struggle, I put hours and hours of work into promotion and social media and stuff like that. It is never going to be easy but there is a scene here but you can only play in certain pubs and venues so much before you’ve played everywhere. The best thing is that there are loads of unique and beautiful places to play, from The Rockpool down in Gwithian to St.Agnes. Although, a lot of artists fall into the trap of playing in the place where they feel comfortable. Personally for 2019 I want to start playing a bit more in places like Bristol and London but it takes time and money. One thing that has been evident to me is that you’re not just a musician any more, you’re making Spotify Playlists, blogging and doing social media. I cannot tell you how much time I have spent online. 

Kieran: Do you think it is a good thing that as an artist you essentially have more control over yourself and brand? 

Jordan: I wish it was easier and I wish there was someone who could do it all for me (laughs). However, it makes sense as an artist to do all this stuff yourself, until you get to a position where you have the funding for someone to take over. I would find it hard to give it over though as it is my baby, it is my career. Pushing my social media etc though has lead to some opportunities and has allowed me to become more legitimate as an artist. I’m not just some bloke playing songs. What I am waiting for his a record label to take notice. 

Kieran: Do you think signing up to a record label is a good thing? 

Jordan: Not at the moment. They can help you with PR and recording time but it’s not enough. I’ve had some offers recently but currently the way I am running things is working, so why change that? 

Kieran: I agree, I think we will start to hear your name more often very soon. You’re a young artist with a lot of time ahead of them. Thanks for sitting down with me and answering my questions! 

Jordan: My Pleasure!

 

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