Jules Martinez on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jules Martinez. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Jules, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Being out in nature, wether in the hills hiking or at the beach. It really helps disconnect with social network and the overall urge as an artist to be advertising and over working.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jules, a French-American Songwriter based in Santa Ana, CA. I’m also an instructor/band director and a session musician for anybody in need of my services (Church gigs, private parties, cover bands…). I’m currently finishing the release of my new album, right now in what we call the “mastering” phase.

You can also see me perform on social network and/or stage with original artists based in LA (Avatari, Zack King, Carlos Cipriano…). I’ll be playing at the Hotel Cafe in LA on 10/10, opening for a wonderful artist named Devon Michael Sedrick.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My first guitar teacher, Yann, was an insanely challenging instructor. He was being particular about a lot of things on my playing and somehow, transmitted these visions and values to me. It’s a double edge sword because this can also get you out of the enjoyment of playing music, but also ultimately pushes you to become always better.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
After my second year of music studies. The overall environment at the school was beyond toxic and I felt music was becoming more like a competition. If you’ve seen the movie Whiplash, you know exactly what I’m talking about. Too many rules, too much elitism coming from random instructors or other students, to the point you forget why you started music in the first place.

I really wanted to quit and start something totally different.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That if you work hard enough, you always get what you want. NOT TRUE. Talent in this industry stands for 20% of the final result. Everything else is networking and branding. Know the right people and the right place, and make sure you look nice. If you look at artists or bands in the 70’s let’s say, they look good awful but play the most wonderful music you probably ever heard. Now, we just switched parameters.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What light inside you have you been dimming?
Spontaneity, unconditional love. I know It’s a dimension of mine I had since I was a little child, but the adult environment forces you to create a shield and protect yourself. You start questioning everything and trusting a little less. I’m fighting against that but it’s hard.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://julesjuliomartinez.bandcamp.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/julesjuliomartinez
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/JulesJulioMartinez
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/julesjuliomartinez
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4hn3AObsESMShZlS90Mt56
  tiktok.com/@JulesJulioMartinez

Image Credits
Welkom Studios, Andrew Rozell, Peter Iwasiwka, Cameron Baldon