Folk Musician Jerron Paxton Transports Us To the '20s
Dec 2, 2024
auto_awesome
Jerron Paxton, a dynamic folk musician known for blending traditional and contemporary sounds, shares his insights on music inspired by the 1920s. He discusses themes of love, gentrification, and self-discovery reflected in his new album, 'Things Done Changed.' Jerron recounts his journey learning instruments, particularly the banjo, and the importance of heritage in his work. He also opens up about navigating life with vision impairment and how music serves as a healing force, further enriching his artistic expression.
Jerron Paxton's latest album, 'Things Done Changed,' showcases his growth as a songwriter through original compositions addressing modern themes like love and gentrification.
Paxton emphasizes the importance of organic inspiration in songwriting, preferring to create music driven by significant personal experiences rather than a strict schedule.
Deep dives
Jerron Paxton's Unique Musical Style
Jerron Paxton's music is characterized by a vibrant blend of genres that resonate deeply with history while reflecting contemporary themes. He draws inspiration from traditional folk, blues, hot jazz, and ragtime, often performing pieces that are over a century old, including songs from the Civil War era. His latest album, 'Things Done Changed,' marks a milestone as it features entirely original compositions, demonstrating his growth as a songwriter. The tracks address modern issues such as love, loss, and gentrification, effectively bridging the past with present-day experiences.
The Art of Songwriting and Inspiration
Paxton discusses the nuanced approach to songwriting, emphasizing that he waits for inspiration rather than forcing the creative process. Acknowledging his background as a folk musician, he reveals that many songs on his album were born from personal experiences and emotional reflections. He prefers to create music when something significant sparks his motivation, rather than adhering to a rigid writing schedule. This organic method allows for a genuine expression that resonates with both the artist and the audience.
Influences and Instrumentation
Throughout the conversation, Paxton highlights the significant influence of acoustic instruments on his music, particularly the guitar and banjo. He strives to evoke a full, rich sound, similar to solo musicians from the country blues genre who could create entire musical landscapes with just their instruments and voice. Paxton’s performance integrates elements like rhythm and harmony, showcasing his skill in playing multiple parts simultaneously, which captivates listeners during his live shows. His dedication to this approach emphasizes his desire to share the depth and intimacy of acoustic music.
Personal Background and Cultural Influences
Growing up in a multi-generational household near Watts, Paxton was surrounded by love and music, despite financial constraints. His upbringing played a crucial role in shaping his artistic identity, as he was heavily influenced by family traditions and the musical heritage of his ancestors. He identifies as a 'throwback,' expressing a preference for older music styles and aesthetics, which reflects in both his performances and personal tastes. The rich musical legacy of his family instilled in him a profound appreciation for traditional music, guiding his artistic journey.
We're going to hear from a musician whose music is vibrant, exciting and new — even if it sounds like it could have been found on a scratchy record from the 1920s. His name is Jerron Paxton and he has a new album called Things Done Changed. He brought some of his instruments to the studio when he spoke with Fresh Air's Sam Briger.