New York-based Taiwanese-American artist Jerry Jean is back in the spotlight with ‘Keep Breathing’, a genre-blending soul-pop anthem that calls for radical authenticity in an age dominated by filters and avatars. Featuring a stunning duet with Chloé Hogan, the track weaves passionate, intertwining vocals over a driving, richly layered production—creating a song that feels both deeply poignant and undeniably anthemic.
So as he prepares for the release of his highly anticipated second full-length album, we sit down with Jerry to discuss the making of ‘Keep Breathing’, his creative journey, and how he’s keeping soul and authenticity alive in today’s ever-changing music landscape.
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Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
As a Taiwanese-American child growing up on the east coast, I took weekly lessons in classical violin and piano until middle school, and then sang in my high school choir. I was initially shy to sing, but using my voice felt so rooted and essential that I had to explore it. I grew increasingly curious about all things music and joined the music composition program at NYU, and finished with a degree in vocal performance. It wasn’t until well after college, when I realized that perpetually playing other people’s music was not fulfilling me, that I began consistently writing and producing my own songs.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound?
Stevie Wonder is the greatest. He combines singing, musicianship, arranging, and songwriting with such an open heart. There are artists who are arguably stronger in individual areas, but I can’t think of anyone else who encompasses as much as he does. I also tend to delve into each aspect of my music, producing and arranging each one of my songs to this day. It can be hard to juggle, but I know that it’s hard for me to do it any other way.
Was there a specific moment or experience that made you decide to pursue music seriously?
After college, I was teaching music at my alma mater and gigging throughout NYC as a freelance musician. While I was making a living, I felt that something was seriously missing. Gigs felt like they just faded away into the ether. But when I began recording music, making videos, and ultimately making records, a large void was filled. Producing my songs felt tangible in a way that really appealed to me. The ability to craft music, record, and distribute independently gave me ownership, figuratively and literally, of my music making.
Can you walk us through your typical songwriting process?
I usually compose at my keyboard, and play and sing simultaneously. Sometimes, I have a song idea or a title ahead of time, and I try to write to that. Other times, I let whatever comes out in the moment take the lead. These raw recordings probably should not see the light of day! I record myself, listen back, and iterate numerous times until I feel like things are where they should be. The final song comes together in a few weeks, but occasionally I sit on something for quite a bit longer. What eventually emerges is unmistakably me, in a kind of purified form.
How do you find inspiration for your music and lyrics?
Since songs can take months for me to finish (when factoring in the producing, arranging, recording, mixing, mastering, etc.), I try to explore topics that mean something deeply to me at the time of writing. It needs to be worth the investment of time and effort. To get in the right frame of mind, I look to my family, think of my personal values, what I want to impart, and imagine what my kids may hear when I’m gone.
What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from your music?
Authenticity, resilience, being rooted in mind and body, being human, leaning into love. Universal themes, recorded through my lens. Hopefully the songs connect and uplift!
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist in the music industry?
Navigating the various social media platforms can be challenging and time consuming. I’m not the biggest fan of spending time on social media, but I recognize its usefulness and I have definitely met some awesome people on the platforms. Technical things like software glitches while producing music, or formatting issues for uploading content on platforms can drain time. Keeping abreast of imposter musician profiles, scams, and murky music business affairs are always a nuisance!
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your musical journey so far?
Putting what I truly want to express out into the world. Each song is a little time capsule, and I learn and evolve after each one. Though I might make different creative or technical choices when looking back, I’m proud of each song.
How do you stay true to yourself and your artistry in a constantly evolving industry?
Sounds cliché, but what the world really needs is for you to be you, not an imitation of someone famous or what you think the audience wants. Please don’t outsource all your creativity and your vital voice to Chat GPT or AI music engines. Keep your soul and express your soul.
What can fans expect from you in the near future?
I’m so excited to release my second full-length album in 2026. It will be the culmination of songs I’ve written since 2020, crafted incrementally and intentionally to form this album. The songs go from intimate to epic, and contain themes and emotions I feel to my core. Almost there!
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Watch the video for Jerry Jean’s new single ‘Keep Breathing’ below.
