ExcLUsive Interviw With Jeiris Cook
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- October 14, 2021
Focus is such an instrumental part of creating music. How do you maintain your Jeiris?
What works for me is breaking things up into smaller manageable tasks. So if it’s songwriting, I might work on the chorus one day, the verses the next and the bridge the following day. It doesn’t always work that way, but I try to be strategic about what I need to accomplish. Doing things this way helps me really laser in on what I need to do. Right now, I’m working on a full-length EP and honestly I would never get it done if I didn’t do things this way. I also just try to remember that the only validation I need when making music is my own. I know artists can sometimes lose their focus because of external noise. I just do me and let others decide to take it or leave it.
We want to hear all about the highs and lows it takes to create something from an idea into MORE!
The most difficult part for me is just starting, which is especially true when writing a song. And even when I’ve started, sometimes you have to work through writer’s block. Even if it means using cheesy cliches as place holders. I’ve also fallen into the trap of leaving songs unfinished. So during the creative process (for me at least) there are lots of stops and starts. The most gratifying part is hearing a completed song. Even if it’s not fully recorded yet. If I can play it from start to finish with just an acoustic guitar, it’s a good day for me.
Is there a specific time of day you love making music most?
Afternoons are really when I hit my stride creatively. Sometimes I don’t have a choice in the matter because you never know when inspiration will hit. But afternoons are really when my brain seems to be firing on all cylinders. I also have to balance being a musician with parenting and there’s usually nothing left for music most nights. When I do write at night, those songs all seem to take on a somber tone. Maybe it’s all in my head though.
When do you tell yourself you need a break?
When I get to the point where I’m trying to force things to happen is usually when I step away. I’m speaking from experience and you can absolutely tell the difference between spontaneous creativity and something forced. I highly value mental breaks….they are worth it.
Do you grant yourself time for YOU when you know you need it?
I try to. I’m in a place in my life where I almost have to schedule it in. Date nights with my wife have to be put on a calendar or they don’t happen. And sometimes they still don’t if my boys have activities going on. From a musical viewpoint, I know I absolutely have to take time away. Otherwise, I’ll always be unhappy with the end result.
Tell us how and where people should be listening to your latest Date Night?
Absolutely! You can hear Date Night on
Website (for live performance appearances)
It’s available on most major digital platforms! Thank you for having me!
For Press Inquiries: bsquaredmgmt@gmail.com
End of Interview
