We’re still swayin’ to singer-songwriter Jade Jackson’s latest release, a heartfelt rendition of Woody Guthrie’s, “This Land Is Your Land,” so we figured we’d keep the good times going. 

And we did that by sitting down and having a quick conversation with Jade herself. If you know Jade like we do, you’d also know that she’s an 805 Authentico who is an incredibly easy, and warm person to talk to. From growing up in the small Central Coast town of Santa Margarita to travelling around the world playing her music, she’s always got a story to tell. 

Grab a cold one from the fridge, fire up the playlist Jade curated for us to set the mood, and get ready to learn about her inspirations, advice on keeping calm in the chaos of the music industry, and more. Turn your headphones or speakers to loud, hit play, start scrolling, and read on.

805: Jade, how are things? What’s been keeping you busy these days? 

Jade Jackson: For the past month, I’ve been immersed in preparing for my current European tour. Between writing new songs, getting ready for the tour, and rehearsing with my band, I’ve been incredibly busy.

You’ve been a singer-songwriter for how long? Can you share a bit about your journey with music with us? 

I began writing and performing at the age of thirteen. After a few years of busking and playing at local coffee shops and restaurants, I got my first big break: opening for The Charlie Daniels Band at The Pozo Saloon. That was sixteen years ago. Since then, my career has been a rollercoaster of extreme highs and lows, but I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and blessings that music has brought into my life.

What’s been inspiring you these days? Any specific experiences, tracks, or other artists? 

Lately, I’ve been really inspired by the idea of recording songs at home. The music industry often gives the illusion that there’s only one path to success. However, once you realize that success is relative, it opens up a lot of creative doors.

And let’s say you could work with any other artist, past or present, are there any that come to mind?

I would have loved to sit down and write a song with the late, great Tom T. Hall. 

We heard you have a new single that you’re currently working on. What’s it about and are there any snippets of creative insights you can share? 

I’ve released a couple of singles from my upcoming EP, Silent Wings, which will be out on July 12th!

We recently worked on a new film that we released together, This Land Is Your Land. What was that experience like for you?

I was thrilled to be a part of it. “This Land Is Your Land” by Woody Guthrie is as poignant today as it was when it was written; not many songs have that timeless quality. I had so much fun working with the 805 crew and playing alongside my longtime friend Matt Pynn. I’m really proud of the rendition we came up with and I’m so happy to share it with the world.

What advice would you give aspiring musicians who look up to your work? 

The key to this industry is to never give up. If you believe in yourself, others will follow. Don’t be discouraged by comparing yourself to other musicians, their talents, or their timelines. You’re on your own journey and remember: good luck is when preparation meets opportunity.

Can you give us a quote, or song lyrics, that have always stuck with you?

“The silence of a falling star /

Lights up a purple sky /

And as I wonder where you are /

I’m so lonesome I could cry.”

— Hank Williams