Today we’d like to introduce you to Jae Jin.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
If you need me to give you something that presents me to be something bigger than I actually am, I am an independent Global Recording Artist, Singer/Songwriter, and Actor (SAG-AFTRA). I have always felt that I have been on a path of art, whether that is visual, performing, or music.
A few years ago, I took a big leap of faith by walking away from the comforts of a traditional career in medicine and business to instead pursue art professionally. I started my journey in NYC through an atypical journey included couch-surfing, floor-surfing, and staying afloat whether by playing to anyone who would listen via house shows, in the subways, or more traditionally via shows/concerts. Over the past 3.5 years, I’ve had the privilege of playing over 210 performances in over 73 cities and 6 countries globally (including Paris, London, South Korea, and Singapore).
Been touring the world including concerts in London, Paris, Korea, and Singapore.
During this time, I have received sign-offs and been recognized as an emerging force in music by the likes of Pat Monahan (Train), Russell Simmons (Def-Jam co-founder), the prestigious Communion Residency, and have also been featured on The Huffington Post and WORLDSTARHIPHOP.
My award-winning debut full-length album titled KAIROS was released independently in 2015 with 3 tracks being pinned for GRAMMY consideration in 2016 in 3 different categories (Americana, R&B, & Pop). This album and the rest of my music was created independently without the backing of a label. I also received his first endorsement/sponsorship with Sinusoid and is a part of their prestigious Artist Guild. In November 2017, I received a coveted 2017 WeWork Creator Award for my story and work.
Similar to other “come-from-nowhere” stories, I inadvertently and suddenly caught the attention of the world with a no-frills viral cover of a 1960s soul classic by Sam Cooke. What followed was widespread interest from music labels, music executives, management firms, and even numerous major network reality TV shows.
After graduating from the prestigious Johns Hopkins University in both undergraduate and graduate studies, and working in healthcare management, business, and social justice for numerous years, I found himself preparing to begin graduate studies in an MD/MBA program. Despite support from family and friends to continue down a well-defined career path, I passed up the opportunity, favoring the passion I have for music, songwriting, and the creative arts. Much of this, I would chalk up to a type of uncommon courage as a survivor. My passions have been honed by these experiences as a 16-year oncology patient and two-time survivor.
My creative passions have also given me an opportunity to study and work in the field of acting. I am an official member of SAG-AFTRA and have also been featured as a principal actor as a musician on the original NetFlix TV show, HOUSE OF CARDS. I just recently finished filming my first lead role in a short film, which was accepted and played at the Atlanta Film Festival this past April, and I eagerly anticipates receiving further opportunities in Hollywood.
I just moved to Los Angeles only a few weeks ago and would love the opportunity to share more in-depth about my story and journey!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has definitely NOT been a smooth road. If you look back at my slowly and organically developed social media over the past few years, for every positive bit of news or accomplishment, there have probably been 20 failures/rejections. Being independent has served to be quite difficult, but in essence, this has been similar to running a start-up company… complete with bootstrapping, and basically spearheading all the different roles of a label (marketing, production, etc), but on my own, singlehandedly, with the help of amazing people who have been sent into my life.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Jae Jin Music – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
My business/product is art. I write and compose original music that heals others. I write from a place of honesty and authenticity in hopes that people will relate to truth and to suffering. I am also disrupting the music culture by reimagining how people experience music and how an artist can create excellent music by aligning with a team of similar and like-minded individuals. I’ve only been doing this almost 4 years and have been able to release 3 studio album projects, and built up an organic following. It’s not about having millions of fans/supporters, but rather to develop and cultivate relationships with a team and with supporters who continue to support your vision.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m getting ready to release my newest full-length album, titled ‘Letters and Drinks’ on June 29, 2018, and am starting to build my community here in Los Angeles. I also plan to continue touring with this new album. On the side, I also am script writing and preparing to get my feet wet with new, challenging roles in acting.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jaejinmusic.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaejinmusic
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaejinmusic
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/jaejinmusic
Image Credit:
Whitney Kim, Darren Yau, David Lai, Peter Braverman
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
