We’re looking forward to introducing you to JudyAnne Jackson. Check out our conversation below.
JudyAnne, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
It’s funny because my answer to both of these questions is music. Whenever I pick up a guitar or sit down at the piano, I immediately get lost in it. The melody and lyrics transport me somewhere else. When I check my phone after playing for a while, I often see that 2 or 3 hours have passed, and I didn’t even notice. Music also helps me to find myself again. When writing songs, I feel most myself, and it helps me to understand my emotions. I’ve written songs where, as I’m writing, I’m gaining new perspectives on experiences in my life. Every song I write is like a little time capsule for me. I love listening back to it, reflecting on my growth and how it applies to my life now.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m JudyAnne Jackson. I’m a singer/songwriter born and raised in Tampa. Music has always been a center point in my life. I’ve known since I was a little kid that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Over the years, I’ve released two EPs, Old Soul (2021) and Dear Me (2023), and I’ve been granted many wonderful opportunities and honors, including being selected as one of NSAI’s “Best of the Seminar” songwriters at Tin Pan South for my song “Lonely Crowd, chosen by NBC’s Today Show as a finalist in its aspiring singer/songwriter contest, and performing at major festivals like the Gasparilla Music Festival. Songwriting is one of my favorite parts of the process. It has always been an outlet for me to express myself and to connect with others. I’m also passionate about giving back to the community that has fostered a supportive environment for my growth and creative expression. For the past 4 years, I have partnered with Recycled Tunes to deliver musical instruments to local Title I schools. Music is hope, joy, and belonging. I believe it is meant to be shared, so no one is deprived of its impact.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents have taught me the importance of hard work and that when you have a passion for something, you have to give it all you’ve got. My dad has also instilled in me the value of organization, including keeping a calendar and spreadsheets, which helps me keep track of my performances, songs I’ve written, and plan out my days to be the most successful and productive.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Rejections and setbacks have taught me more about myself than success ever could. When you achieve something, you feel empowered and strong—but when you overcome something difficult, you discover a deeper kind of strength. There can be a lot of “nos” in the industry, and I’ve learned that perseverance is key. Achieving my goals will not happen overnight, but I will continue to work hard. The only way to reach those “yeses” is to learn and grow from the challenges.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m all-in on building a full-time career and growing an authentic brand that’s true to who I am. My dream is to tour and play for people all over the world, connecting with them through the power of music. There’s something magical about live music—when strangers come together to sing and feel something real. That’s the kind of connection I want to create.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people tell stories about how my songs made them feel. There is a Maya Angelou quote that perfectly encapsulates the way I want to live and my motivation for my career: “People will forget what you said, they’ll forget what you did, but people will never forget the way you made them feel.” If I could accomplish one thing in my career, it would be to make others feel heard and understood. Words and music are the language of understanding. That’s the true magic of music and why I could never see myself doing anything else.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.judyannejackson.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jajacksonmusic/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jajacksonmusic/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyAnneJackson
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-635514839
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jajacksonmusic?lang=en
Image Credits
Sara Jin
Jeremy Ryan
Leo Lobo
