Meet Jairus Edwards

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jairus Edwards. 

Hi Jairus, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My story starts at church in Prince George’s County, MD, singing in the choir leading songs, discovering something that would lead me to the rest of my life. It lead me to discover my passion for music and performing and lead me to wanting to hone my craft, see how far I could take it, and learn how to make my dreams and aspirations a reality. So, I went and auditioned for the Duke Ellington school of the Arts in Washington, DC, where I was admitted and classically trained and learned what it took to be an artist. With a 10hr school day and rehearsals every day after school and keeping up with academic life it taught me work ethic and organization that was crucial learning for my success today. Upon graduation, I moved to LA and went to USC where I earned my degree in Vocal Jazz performance. Studying under artist like Patrice Rushen and Sara Gazarek, they taught me how to take my gift to the next level, a more professional and career-oriented route. Writing and performing all through college, and to this day, I began to dive into what I wanted my sound to be like and who was I as an artist. Now you can find me creating my music, performing, and encouraging everyone to stay groovy. My music can be described as the “new classics”. A nostalgic feel-good sound that propels the past to the present. I aspire to create a timeless sound inspired by classic R&B/Soul, jazz, funk, and pop. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not, this road is not for the weak. There are always bumps in the road, and you always have to plan for them…because if it was that easy then everyone would do it. For me, some of my struggles are trying to find support whether financial or industry. Another can be trying to figure out how to make the most of what I have on hand. As a completely independent artist, I only have what I have and I can only do what I make happen, so when I’m going up to bat for myself it can be hard sometimes. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an R&B/Soul artist, and I make music, and art that’s supports the music, that I describe as new classics; a nostalgic feel-good sound that propels the past to the present. I aspire to create a timeless sound inspired by classic R&B/Soul, jazz, funk, and pop. With a rich creamy tone, I set a mood and serenade audiences with songs that groove. And encourages everyone to Stay Groovy. I’m most proud of the journey I’m on and how much I’ve accomplished so far from opening for artist like Mereba and Ayoni to creating music videos and making my vision come to life. What sets me apart from others is my talent, my ability to move crowds and perform live is unmatched (humbly). My work ethic, I know how to make something out of nothing and make it the best thing ever because I’m willing to work until I see what I’m looking for. Lastly my sound, my sound is unique but familiar and it’s what’s missing in R&B today. 

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
For me I was able to find mentors through school, so for those who are in school build those relationships with your professors they can mean a lot in the long run. For those who don’t choose school, I’ve also found a mentor through mentor programs I found online. And at the end of the day, it’s about putting yourself out there, and really just going for it. And everyone you meet isn’t going to work, you just have to slide to right, take a step back and take two hops this time…you cha cha’d now slide…on to the next! And the same goes with networking as a homebody I had to go outside and meet people. Go to mixers, happy hours, shows, events…whatever your field is put yourself in those room or as close as you can but ultimately simply start somewhere and just be genuine. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/j.airus?fbclid=PAAaYCshlNqeBam5z0gfmhcGHKKjaOkSJ1JAeWWoshG-vdZ5jvQANHz98UHAk
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j.airus/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCUOwLiLG4LNYiz9iHobASdw

Image Credits
Caleb Griffin
Domia Edwards