JackGeorge is a talented singer-songwriter from Reading, England. His music fuses elements of indie, alternative, and pop music, creating chill bedroom pop vibes. He writes about love, family, current world issues, and mental health. ‘Under the Apple Tree’ is his first release bigger than a single; he wanted to create something that reflected his mental health journey in the past few years. All the songs have hidden meanings that are sentimental to him, but that is the great thing about music. It's subjective, so you can interpret his songs in your own way.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Hello JackGeorge. What strengths do you have that you believe make you a great musician?
Hey, I think I am a versatile singer songwriter, I think I have the ability to sing in different ways to fit the genre, I'd also like to think I can make people feel something when listening to my music.
Who inspired you to make music?
In terms of other artists/bands...the first CD I ever bought was 'Doowops & Hooligans' by Bruno Mars, and I just loved the way he performed and wrote songs in so many different styles and genres. Then, with my music, I used my life experiences to write songs, especially my mental health. Once I was 16 and going through my toughest time, I was writing 2 to 3 songs a day.
Your latest release is 'Under the Apple Tree'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
Do you count changing the chord progression and key of 'This Dream' just before recording the guitar parts as unusual? If yes, then yeah, that. I always have fun recording in my studio, and I've got to give credit to my sister for 'Listen', she helped me perfect the strings in that song and we were both really happy with how it turned out. Also, I had the idea for this EP for a long time and it wasn't until I added 'Broken Hearts' to the list, that I thought this would be a good creation. I'm a bit of a perfectionist, but I think it turned out well.
Can you shortly describe each of the tracks that are on the EP?
Simple:
'This Dream' is about a recurring dream that I had during my toughest time and I still get it now when I'm going through a rough patch.
'September' I had released as a single prior to the EP, and this is about being away from your other half, like a long distance relationship.
'Broken Hearts' is a message to anyone who has been through or is going through a breakup. I wanted to create a sense of togetherness so people feel less alone.
'With You' I wrote 3 years ago, again it's about being away from your partner, and the feeling of longing to see them again.
'Listen' was a message to my mental health. It uses a metaphor, it can be interpreted as a song about a toxic relationship. In verse 1, I'm talking to them, in verse 2, they're talking to me. And the final part of the song is supposed to make you feel like you're floating off into a happy place with a sense of relief.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest musical trends?
TikTok is a good place to keep up to date if you're interested. It's great for promotion, much like Instagram really. I try not to concern myself with music trends as such, I just make music that is good for me and I hope can be good for others.
What makes you different from others?
A lot of the time, I write in metaphors. I prefer it this way. It means you can interpret my songs in anyway you like, and even if it isn't the way that I intended, if you enjoyed it, then I'm happy. I've got some different styles of music coming out this year, so look out for that.
What’s an average day like for you?
I get up early and get out the house to freshen my mind, a walk in the fresh air or a session at the gym, gets me ready for the day. I really recommend it. Then with my music, I try to record something every day, whether that is one guitar part or a whole song. Of course, the mixing and mastering is for another day. You have to make sure your ears are well rested :) Some days I write a song or two, other days I don't write any, but there is no pressure.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans.
I love talking to people. If someone comments on my posts or sends me a message, I'm always going to reply. I always make time for people. You should treat people with respect, it goes a long way. That's why in my logo, I have the words, 'Be Kind'.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Work hard, stay humble. Try to be positive as much as you can. Don't expect too much from yourself, take your time. Some days you can't do it, but other days you definitely can. It might sound a bit cliche, but don't give up. Lastly, if you enjoy what you are making, then it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks. Be true to yourself and your music.
What are your plans for the future?
This year, I want to release some more songs and another EP. I have an idea but I am going to keep quiet about it. I am excited. But I will mention, exclusively, there will be a new single out in February. I'm just going to keep working on my music for the future and share it with the world.