J. EDMOND – Great conversations with rising stars
Ralph Beauchamp
first time i met J. Edmond When I started AMP, it was about 6 years ago. I believe he was still a teenager and I noticed all the efforts he made to constantly promote his musical world on social media platforms. He is a busy man. Not only is he an artist, he’s also a radio personality, record manager and podcaster. His energy seemed boundless. I wonder how a child so young can fulfill all of these responsibilities without self-destruction. The only person I know who can keep up. J. Shannon Wilk is a staff correspondent and photographer for this publication. She also possesses the fortitude of a bulldog.
Go back a year or so and again Edmond‘s and my paths intersect. He was working in publicity at the Wall Street Theater (now the Regional Music Hall) in Norwalk, and I contacted him to cover the Buckcherry tour stop. Before the show we had dinner and discussed the current state of music. After several years of COVID, things are opening up again. It looks like people are going to shows again. I found his perspective interesting and I’m still amazed by this young man’s determination to leave a mark.
Now to now. J. Edmond He has shed some of his musical snakeskin in order to focus on songwriting and performing. His creativity has never been higher, and his desire to succeed has never been greater. He recently released a new single titled “City Walk” which has been well received by critics and fans alike. His star began to shine. J. On the road to stardom.
J. Edmond Sit down with AMP to discuss all things music.
AMP: Can you give our readers an introduction to your music career?
Edmund: It started when I was 16 and still in high school. My dad and I can play. He always teaches me new things. A high school teacher really got me moving in the right direction. I haven’t been able to put the guitar down since then. Suddenly I started writing songs. It wasn’t until much later that I felt confident in my singing voice. In fact, it wasn’t until this year that I felt like my voice was where I wanted it to be.
AMP: You’ve held many positions such as artist, record label executive and radio DJ. How do you deal with all the chaos?
Edmund: I would rest, which in retrospect was the hardest thing for me to do. It was a silence that was difficult to handle. My mind keeps working. Additionally, I added a new hat. I’ve already started promoting the show. Since my label is done, I want to use my skills to help other artists find a base. I’ve come to realize that in the music scene, if you’re not the hot new thing, why not assist other artists in any way? By doing this, your star begins to rise.
Invest yourself in the show you’re promoting. The online part of my musical world was missing. It’s all about me. My sphere of action now includes “us.” Happily, the CT scene is becoming vibrant and alive, and we as artists can find new avenues of exposure.
AMP: Who are your inspirations?
Edmund: This goes back to The Beatles, The Who and one of my biggest inspirations – Badfinger. So far, I’m digging American Pie actor Thomas Ian Nicholas. He has a really good band and his new album is great. But my inspiration is constantly changing. I just love the music and the history behind it.
AMP: Let’s talk about your new single “City Walk.” Can you tell us a little bit about this song?
Edmund: “City Walk” was written in Florida. I went there with a friend to watch the All American Rejection Game. I just interviewed Nick from the band on my podcast and it turns out their show at Hard Rock happened during my trip. He offered to let me go in and take a look. You think, the first time I went to Florida, I was in a great venue with the All-American Rejects.
This turned out to mean a lot to me. I have a good relationship with Brian Wilson and tend to stay in the background. So, the best thing I can do to cope with this situation is write it down. “City Walk” is all about this experience. A lot of my previous material revolved around fantasies about fictional characters. “City Walk” was the first song I wrote that was relevant to my real life. It talks about mental health which I talk about quite openly. I feel this is an important subject. The next song will be “Search Lights.” It’s made in Los Angeles and has a really cool vibe.
AMP: You’ve played quite a few shows. Any one in particular stands out?
Edmund: I love playing The Cellar On Treadwell. I booked a few shows there. The Cellar stage always seems to be calling my name. I longed to play live, but I also enjoyed my time in the studio. I’ve booked a lot of shows. More than I’ve had before.
AMP: What do you think makes your music unique?
Edmund: This is a difficult question! Being able to incorporate the complexities of my mental health issues into my material. I’m sure other artists have done the same thing, but my writing style lends itself to opening up my inner self. I also think my voice is unique. I’ve found that my recent sounds have taken me to a special place. It took a while to perfect. Also, my songwriting is very philosophical, although I tend to simplify it. No one can sing along to Socrates’ proverbs, so I just have fun doing it. The other thing is I feel like I’m very prolific. Like Neil Young, when I’m inspired, I pull over.
AMP: If you could collaborate with any artist from the past or present, who would it be and why?
Edmund: Pete Ham from Badfinger would be my first choice. I feel like we are soul brothers. I really admire this man.
AMP: What is your favorite activity outside of music?
Edmund: I would have to say playing cards and video games. I’m a nerd. I also enjoy hanging out with friends. I love this question because I’m usually so focused on my music that I forget what I enjoy when I’m not in it.
AMP: What other themes do you embed in your music?
Edmund: So, we’ve talked about mental health, but there’s been a recent shift. Like I said, I used to write about fictional creatures, but now I write about my personal experiences and fears. I am so grateful to my team for helping me on this journey that I have embarked on. Yet it’s all so fluid. I am only 24 years old, who knows where the future will be. Documenting the emotional rollercoaster I’m going through right now in the hopes of helping others not to give up. Pursue what is in your heart.
AMP: What’s next for J. Edmond?
Edmund: My “Search Lights” will be released on July 26th. There’s a whole bunch of gigs coming up. My ability to book shows and become a promoter is very exciting. I now have fun like a young person, not like a 60 year old trapped inside of me. My therapist once told me that I’m not afraid of dying, I’m afraid of living, and I’ve taken that to heart. Now it’s all about living your best life. I live for today.
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