INTERVIEW: ALFRED JONES
BY OLIVIA LEON
Genre blending artist Alfred Jones has been making his debut into the music world with series of singles from “Bittersweet” to “Miracle Mile.” The artist toys the line between indie, soul, and everything in between, creating a sound that pushes listeners to simply sit in the quiet moments and just be. In this interview, Jones pulls back the curtains to it all as he delves into the exploration of his musical journey, writing music for himself, and the vulnerability in it all.
Photo By: Aaron Watson
You first released music in 2020. How do you think you've changed as an artist since then? Were you always into music, even before your 'official debut' into the music world?
I definitely think I’ve grown so much as an artist over the past two years. The pandemic really allowed me to dig deep and explore different parts of myself and my art in a way I haven’t before. Before I officially started releasing music, I used to write reference tracks for producers and other artists that I met over social media. During the early stages of the pandemic, I decided to just write for myself this time. It feels good telling my own stories for once.
Do you have any main inspirations for your music? Is there anyone in the music industry or outside of it that has influenced your work?
I would say my biggest inspiration is Micheal Jackson. From his aura down to his performance, I think he’s what a true artist should strive to be. Prince deserves his flowers too. I loved how Prince carefully curated his brand and was picky about it. I would also have to say that I’m also heavily influenced by Rick Rubin as well. The way he’s able to maneuver from genre to genre is astonishing. How do you produce one of Jay Z’s biggest records and then go on to win a Grammy for the Dixie Chicks? He made me realize that artists don’t have to stay in one box all the time, and it’s ok to be genre-less sometimes.
What are you listening to this month? Any music favorites?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Jazmine Sullivan lately. Her voice is beautiful and she’s very talented. She deserves a Grammy. The Monkees and Jefferson Airplane has been on my rotation as well. I only listen to Barry McGuire when I’m feeling rebellious.
In 2021, you released three new singles and an EP. As we make our way into the new year, what are you looking forward to in 2022?
Definitely stay tuned for this year. I’m going to be dropping a lot of singles. I might turn the singles into an album as the numbers keep picking up. I have a couple features I’m working on as well. Working on getting new management. I’m planning a live show soon, sometime in July or August. So yeah, stay tuned.
You also just released your latest single "Miracle Mile"! What about the new single being released are you most excited for?
I’m really stoked that I was able to get at least one song out this year already. Last year was really rough, but I’m going in a whole new direction this year which is very exciting and I can’t wait to put out what I have for the world to see.
Finally, what do you want listeners to take away from your music and you, as an artist?
I hope my supporters understand that it’s okay to be vulnerable. It’s okay to feel what you want to feel, there is no problem in doing so. And don’t be afraid of change or to change when you need to.
