Start Listening To: Jack Jones

Exploring Jack Jones' Journey: From Band Frontman to Solo Artist, Tackling Mental Health, and the Making of 'Breathe'.

In our latest Q&A, we sit down with Jack Jones, an evocative singer-songwriter from Swansea known for his raw and introspective music. With roots in the vibrant scenes of Trampolene and Peter Doherty's The Puta Madres, Jack has carved out a distinct space for himself, balancing between his powerful performances and poignant lyricism. As he embarks on his solo journey, Jack shares insights into his single 'Breathe,' the inspirations behind his upcoming album, and his personal battles with mental health. Join us as we delve into the mind of this compelling artist and explore the stories behind his songs, his creative process, and what fans can expect from his upcoming projects.

For those unfamiliar with your music, can you tell us who you are, where you’re from and about the music you make?

I’m Jack Jones, I’m from Swansea and always just lived my life in an expressive way - with songs and poems ... It's been my way of coping, I guess.

Your new single 'Breathe' has just been released. Can you share more about the inspiration behind the song and the personal experiences that influenced it?

I think anyone who's had a panic attack knows how messed up the whole thing is. I thought I was dying or having a heart attack or that I would be stuck like that forever, proper scary stuff. Maybe they should be called something else ... something more epic? Mind trip of death, or something? I've been meditating and learning to deal with them. This song helped me to.

The lyrics in 'Breathe' address significant issues like mental health and existential fears. How do you approach writing about such intense and personal topics?

I basically just read pages from my diary over the past 18 months and felt strong enough to be honest.

The video for 'Breathe' features you training to be the first Welsh astronaut. Can you tell us about the concept behind the video and how it came together?

Haha... Our new label manager had the idea and it made me laugh so I said yes. It was a fun day. God knows how we pulled it off.

You've worked with Adam French on your debut solo album. How did this collaboration come about, and what was the experience like?

I love Adam, he’s pushed me in so many different ways. We were introduced by a good friend of mine called Alex Edwards who runs Nice Swan records.

Your upcoming solo album tackles various modern issues. How do you hope your music will resonate with listeners, particularly regarding themes like mental health and technology?

I don’t know, I just try to think of being useful and helpful in my songwriting … showing people what I’ve been through in my life and hopefully making them feel less alone.

You’ve established yourself in the music scene with Trampolene and Peter Doherty’s band, the Puta Madres. How have these experiences influenced your solo work?

I tried to forget about them totally and start anew to be honest.

Your book 'Tour Diaries' Volume 1 is also coming out. What inspired you to document your experiences, and what can fans expect from the book?

I was sober and everyone else was not ... basically, to keep myself on the wagon, but it didn’t last for long.

You mentioned that 'Breathe' came out of a dark time in your life. Can you share how creating this song helped you navigate through that period?

I think whenever you’re struggling with your mental health it’s good to come out and write about it or speak to someone you really trust. I wanted to be that person for anyone listening to the song.

What can fans expect from your upcoming UK headline tour in November? Are there any particular venues or cities you're especially excited to perform in?

I’m just mega excited to be out on the road. I can’t wait actually! It’s gonna be very different. I’m gonna experiment with props and all that kinda thing … to help people connect with the songs.

What do you love right now?

Having a sauna, a run, a cold shower and a huge home cooked meal before watching the Euros ... or feeling like I’ve done well on social media for the day x

What do you hate right now?

Being broke all the time. 

Name an album you’re still listening to from when you were younger and why it’s still important to you?

John Frusciante - Shadows Collide With People. 

As someone who has experienced both band dynamics and now a solo career, what are the biggest challenges and rewards of each? How do they compare for you personally?

The biggest challenge of all is always just to find the will and desire and strength to keep going. I sometimes feel like I could do something else … I will away write songs and poetry but I don’t know if I need anyone to hear them … I suppose that’s a chat for another day.