Interview with J.C. Andersen from November 2005
By Janelle Landauer | www.countrymusiconline.net
CMO: At what age did you begin singing?
I began singing at about the age of 3. My dad was and still is a very musical person who always surrounded me with music. It didn't take long before I jumped on stage with him at a Sons of Norway party and sang a Merle song with him. From that point on, it's been my life.
CMO: How would you describe your style of music for those who have not heard you yet?
I have so many influences that it makes it hard for even me. I would say to take a bit of rock n' roll, a pinch of modern, contemporary bluegrass, and top it off with a little bit of just plain old country. That's about it.
CMO: What kind of songs do you look for (or write) when you go into the studio?
When I write a song, I dig down deep to find a memory or idea that I feel will not only impact the general public, but also me every time I hear or perform the song. I use the same process when choosing songs for my album.
CMO: Where do you find the ideas and inspirations when writing songs?
In my life, in my family's lives, in my friends lives, and in the everyday situations that life has to offer. Life itself is an inspiration.
CMO: Do you have a favorite song on your album, "When The Tide Rolls In"? If so, what is it & why is it your favorite song?
"Sweeter Than Sugarcane." I love everything about the song. I think that it is just put together so well from the lyrics to the melody to the production. It's just nice on the ear drums!
CMO: Can you tell us about your favorite song that you've written overall? What does it mean to you? Why did you write it?
My favorite that I wrote on the album is "When the Tide Rolls In." It's a true-to-life song about a girl that broke my heart at about the worst time she could do it. I had to write the song to get it out of my system, and set myself free of an old heartache.
CMO: One of our favorite songs on this album is "Sweeter Than Sugarcane." How did this song come about and what made you decide to record it?
My producer Ted Hewitt played it for me when we were looking for some songs for the album. After hearing it once we looked at each other and didn't even have to say "yes," - our expressions said it all.
CMO: How would you describe the whole process of recording your debut album, and what is a typical day in the studio like for you?
After figuring out what keys to record the songs in to correspond with my voice, we go into the studio with the musicians and they do their music tracks first. I go in later after those tracks are completed, and record my vocal tracks.
CMO: Who are some of the other artists/songwriters you have written with or for?
My buddy, songwriter Mark Trail. My friend, talented artist/songwriter Johnny Bulford. Artist/songwriter Marc Christian. Artist/songwriter Shane Warner. There are tons of others, but I'd be here for a week.
CMO: Do you prefer performing or writing?
Writing is a whole lot newer to me than performing is, but now that I'm doing both, I can't just choose one. I love to do both equally as much.
CMO: While you're on tour, how do you balance your career with your family/friends?
Well, I try to take as many of them as I can with me, but that doesn't always work too well. I spend a lot of time on the phone to them, and I write e-mails back and forth, but it is rough because I don't get to go to the old hometown of Lakeland, Florida much anymore.
CMO: What is your favorite song to perform live?
Leanin'!
CMO: What do you like about touring? What do you dislike?
I love seeing places I haven't seen, meeting people who like my music, and most of all just spreading my music to the world. The only thing I dislike is being away from family and friends for long periods of time.
CMO: If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?
Keith Urban. Our styles of music and stage performing are not far apart. I think we could come up with some great tunes if we were to write together.
CMO: Do you have any expectations as a recording artist?
My expectations for myself are only to improve my abilities as an artist everyday, and not to quit my music, no matter what level of success I achieve with my career.
CMO: What goals have you accomplished and what do you still want to accomplish with your music career?
I have traveled to Norway, Denmark, and different parts of the United States performing for people. I have also done opening shows for many major artists such as Keith Urban, Darryl Worley, Lonestar, Diamond Rio, Brad Paisley, Joe Nichols, and many others. In the long run though, I would love to have someone open for me and list it as one of their greatest accomplishments. Also, one of my dreams has always been to look out into a crowd of thousands of people and see them singing my songs with me.
CMO: What is your motivation behind your accomplishments and what continues to motivate you?
My support from family, friends, and fans is my main motivation that keeps me going strong all the time.
CMO: Who has been the greatest influence in your life? (Music related or not)
My dad. He has taught me so much more than just music. I could go on all day about it.
CMO: What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in the industry?
DON'T QUIT! Also, get out and meet other musicians and music people; you never know who you might meet, and what they could do for your future. Most importantly, there is someone out there that is just as good as you, and wants to make it as much as you. The difference is YOU have to be the artist that works harder to get what you want. You can't sit on your butt and expect a music contract to land on your lap - get out there and make it happen!
CMO: Is there anything you would like to say to all your fans reading this?
Oh, you're a fan? YOU ROCK!
Added: December 10, 2005
