Music is an ever-evolving organism. The independent artist of today can feel free to experiment and dive into multiple genres to find their own unique sound. Our recent discovery Jack Shea has developed his own style that although based on simple acoustic guitar, goes in many different directions. His passion for music and lyrics is evident immediately and will help him connect with fans that truly listen.
The latest single from the Boston singer-songwriter is called “Newsman.” The peppy track will grab you right away with its simple beat and lyrical attack. The message is clear that Jack Shea does not have much faith in the mainstream media. He has found a way to eloquently describe his feelings with a bouncy song that will make you think. The chorus will weave its way deep into your mind.
We had a chance to catch up with Jack Shea and try to get into his mind and see where his musical passion comes from and what is coming next from this talented songwriter. Enjoy the interview here:
Music has been a part of your life for a long time. What continues to draw you to it?
Music is a part of me, and I don’t know what I’d be doing without it. I don’t think that I could find the visceral rush I get from listening to music and the release I get from creating it anywhere else. I’m constantly discovering new sounds that inspire me, so that’s probably why I never get bored with it.
How would you describe the Jack Shea sound?
I like to use the term “adventure music” for a lot of what I make. My sound often bounces between hip hop, folk, alternative, rock and other things, but there’s always an acoustic guitar at the center of it all.
Which artists have been the biggest influence on your development?
I’ve had some great musical mentors and guides throughout my life who have influenced me greatly, but some of the most important artists for me were definitely The Beatles, Pearl Jam, Incubus and John Butler Trio, as well as guys like Xavier Rudd, Bob Marley, and Ben Harper.
What do you hope people get out of your music?
I just want my music to carry a feeling of freedom and openness, while also being connected to nature and the outdoors as well as each other. Like, I want people to feel liberated from the things that might weigh them down during their daily lives and feel like they can do anything.
Take It All In With The Lyric video for ‘Newsman’ by Jack Shea
The lyrics of your latest single “Newsman” really caught my attention. Where did you gain such a way with words?
I have a journalism degree, which is a big part of the inspiration for that song. But I love words and the way they can cut right to your core when employed the right way, but when you’re writing a song about something you’re truly passionate and honest about, the right words just spill onto the page.
Tell us about the meaning of that song?
I was home watching TV one day and just got really angry with the way news is done on TV. It seems to me that it’s all part of a greed-fueled system that, in the United States and elsewhere, has created a culture of fear, inequality, and oppression. There’s so much misinformation, and people tend to eat everything up without questioning anything, so the song is all about thinking for yourself.
What advice would you give to other songwriters out there trying to get known?
Honestly, I don’t have a great answer for that because I don’t really know how to get known myself.
What is next for Jack Shea?
A lot of new songs are on the way, and I’ll have an LP later this year.
“Newsman” is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music. You can find Jack Shea on Facebook and Instagram @iamjackshea
Listen on Spotify
