RFG: How would you describe the music that you typically create and what is your creative process?
JS: I would describe the music that I typically create as vibrant melodic and feel- good. My creative process usually takes about one to three days and I am extremely focused during that time. I do not really feel the need to eat until I finish the song.
RFG: How did the artist named “Jay Shephard” come about?
JS: Jay Shephard came about during my time of soul searching. One day as I was reading the Bible, I saw the name Shepherd coming up so frequently that I took it as a sign. Most people already calls me Jay for short, therefore, I decided to combine them both.
RFG: What is your favorite song to perform and why?
JS:My favorite song to perform is “Pressure”, I love to perform this song because it has so much emotion behind it and I usually get a good response.
RFG: We understand that you wrote a book, tell us a little about it?
JS: My book is called “Take a shot at your dreams before Murphy’s law takes a shot at you” and this book is more of an inspirational book. I speak briefly about me being shot which is a part of my journey in music; but the book is basically about the principles and key tools that I’ve used and that I’ve been taught throughout the years that has helped me along with others to become the best version of themselves.
RFG: What type of impact do you feel the current state of the world will have on your music and the music industry at large?
JS: I think the current state of the world has a significant impact on the music industry and how music will be performed in the future. I think that most performances will now have to be digitally done and as it pertains to my music, I now have more to talk about and I’m motivated because I know that this is the new era in music. I am just excited to be a part of the change and witness it.
RFG: What are your musical plans for the next 12 months?
JS: My music plans for the next 12 months are geared towards, promotion, marketing and branding. The objective is to have my songs recognized and to become more known worldwide.
RFG: If you could pass on words of wisdom to the next musical generation, what would it be?
JS: Be motivated be passionate and never give up on yourself. I would also advise them to always be positive and to continuously strive towards being the best version of themselves.
RFG: If given the opportunity, which reggae artists would you most like to collaborate with?
JS: If given the opportunity it would be a blessing to collaborate with Sizzla, Jah Cure, Gentleman or any of the Marley’s.
RFG: If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?
JS: If I could change anything, I would make reggae more mainstream and I would change the people running the music industry.
https://www.jayshephard.net
