Ever since he first emerged, fast-rising singer-songwriter Bob Jeter has always been one to reinvent the classic blues-rock sound for a modern ear. And with a riveting array of delights under his belt lately, he now returns as the head of Jeter N The Jets to deliver his breezy new single ‘A Band With A Mission’.
So with the new track doing the rounds, we caught up with him to find out more about his origins and what he has planned for the months ahead as well.
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Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
I grew up in the 60s-70s in Richmond, Va USA and started performing as a singer in several local R&B bands. Though I played the trumpet in my early years my true love was the guitar which I first picked up and learned to play in my late teens.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound?
There were many great bands and performers during the 60s-70s and my sound was influenced by many but as I started to play the guitar Bob Dylan was writing his greatest songs, so I covered him often, along with Neil Young, Crosby Stills and Nash, and of course the Beatles and Rolling Stones. As I matured musically, I got into such groups as Steely Dan, the Blues as well as Country. In the current scene I really like performers like Ed Sheeran, Teddy Swims, Chris Stapleton and Lady Ga Ga. Strong melodies are what turns me on.
Was there a specific moment or experience that made you decide to pursue music seriously?
When I started traveling and writing/performing songs while living in London and Paris.
Can you walk us through your typical songwriting process?
It varies on my mood and inspiration which can come from anywhere – a song I hear, what I’m thinking about in regards to what is going on in the world, an emotion or feeling. Sometimes I just start with a riff on the guitar – sometimes I start with a lyric. There is no set formula I use.
How do you find inspiration for your music and lyrics?
As mentioned above, other music, a feeling or emotion, or what I’m thinking about in regards to the world around me.
What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I try to stay positive in my messaging – whether it be social issues or getting over a lost love. I don’t mind going into the spiritual realm but I have written novelty tunes just for the fun of it. I’m not personally a big proponent of Art for Art’s sake however. I believe Art should carry some kind of message for the betterment of the world.
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist in the music industry?
As an independent artist, though I have worked with labels before, I find bringing in a steady income is challenging.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your musical journey so far?
Music can be both a curse and a blessing. I try to make it more a blessing and use it not only to nurture my soul but the souls of others if I am able.
How do you stay true to yourself and your artistry in a constantly evolving industry?
You can only write and perform songs that pleases you and hope it pleases others while learning all the time what makes a song work.
What can fans expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects or tours?
I am about to go out on tour again though it might be more local since I have other business interests besides music. I am writing songs all the time however, and try to release a new song every month or so.
Where do you see yourself and your music career in the next five years?
Hopefully, gaining more influence in the music industry and increasing my revenue which would enable me to produce better art and shows. As Walt Disney once said “… I don’t make movies to make money – I make money to make movies”.
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Listen to Jeter N The Jets’ new single ‘A Band With A Mission’ below.
