Jae Franklin: Keeping the Reverb Alive

Recording Artist, Jae Franklin talks with Editor in Chief, Jerris Madison about her latest single, dream collaborations and her thoughts about the current state of music being an independent artist.

Leather Dress •  Pink Sheep Heiress
Booties •  JF London
Earrings •  Stylist’s Own

Left
Faux Leather Dress/Top • Fulani
Heels •  JF London
Earrings •  Rozaliya Jewelry

Right
Pink Dress •  Hottie + Lord
Bunny Ears •  Kisskill
Earrings •  Rozaliya Jewelry

Flower Romper • Mimi Tran
Earrings •  Stylist’s Own

Left
Faux leather dress •  Fulani
Knee suede boots •  JF London
Earrings •  Stylist’s Own

Right
Jacket/Bandeau •  Mimi Tran
Suede knee boots •  Evaluna Shoes
Earrings/Belt •  Stylist’s Own

Interview

You have come a long way. How did you get started in the music business?

I started in the music business singing with my sister, performing for label execs in Houston and around the country. Those opportunities fell through. As a solo artist, I released my two EPs, Universal Language: Prelude 1 and Universal Language: Prelude 2. I also released two more EPs and began traveling and touring with other well-known artists, experiencing life on the road as a working artist.

Originally, you were a duo with your sister, what made you go solo?

I wanted to explore my own voice. I also wanted to grow personally and professionally.

Being a native of Houston, how did the recent natural disaster affect you?

That was my childhood home. It’s still a big part of me. Many of my friends and family were affected in different ways. I was immediately compelled to donate and share information with others about how to help Houstonians.

If you could collaborate with 3 recording artist, who would it be and why?

Maxwell. He’s set the blueprint for emerging artists to create long-term success. Most recently, he showed me love after he heard my remix of his song, Lake by the Ocean. I feel that’s a step in the right direction.

Amel Larrieux. She’s an artist of substance also seems accessible although she’s been in the industry for decades.

Angelique Kidjo. She’s a legend and modern-day chameleon. Oh, the lessons I will learn from her about life, music, humanitarianism, and empowerment one day.

Fried chicken or baked chicken?

Tofu. How ‘bout that?

How do you balance your career and marriage?

I never fake the funk. Neither does my husband. If we’re apart for an extended amount of time, we make sure we communicate on a schedule that works for us.

What do you love about being married?

Marriage is an extension of our friendship.

Do you want children one day?

Yes, I do.

What do you know now that you wished you knew when you started?

I wish I had known that traditional marketing wouldn’t be as valuable as digital marketing.

Favorite genre of music?

Soul music, especially soul music created around the late 70s.

Tell us about your latest single?

Love is Not Hard has a clear message. It’s about loving you. It’s about loving people who rub you the wrong way. They need love too since they don’t understand how their actions hurt other people. Love is Not Hard was digitally released in September. There’s live, soulful music throughout the song.

Love is Not Hard was produced and mixed by David Kennedy, who most recently mixed the latest A Tribe Called Quest album We Got it From Here… Thank You 4 Your Service. The artwork was created by Nick Liefhebber.

Do you plan to drop a full album, EP or mixtape?

The Jae Franklin EP drops in November.

What do you feel is hindering you from getting your ‘big break’?

With the right amount of effort and quality content, I think my journey will blossom just as it should. I’ve learned that inconsistency versus consistency plays a big part. Digital marketing and branding are huge.

How do you feel about the current state of music?

I feel that there is space for everyone. There is an audience for everyone. The current state of music is starting conversations about politics and good versus evil. It’s sparking movements and building communities. It’s empowering people. It’s bridging the gap between generations. More artists are creating content with important messages. The current state of music is important and groundbreaking.

Is the music industry fair to the 

independent artist?

Life isn’t fair. I wouldn’t expect the music industry to be any different. There’s music then there’s the industry. It’s good to have an understanding of both. Indie artists have to stay in the game. We have to be well-rounded. I don’t have a big machine behind me yet. I have to create content consistently. I have to wear a lot of hats, which takes more time to execute. From digital strategy to marketing to music, I have to make sure my music is created and released. Ultimately, I’m determined to reach music lovers, executives, brands, and potential corporate sponsors.

Where can we see you perform live in the future?

I will be performing in Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York very soon. Check my website for more details. http://www.voroso.co.

Favorite quote from ‘you’?

A mistake on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part.

Romper or Dress?

Depends on the day.

Any regrets?

Nope. None at all.

Any shoutouts?

Big shoutout my husband, parents, and sister. Another shout out my supporters, my creative peers, and out to music. Last shout out to the Universe. I see you (Universe) shifting things in my direction.

www.voroso.co

Follow her Instagram @jaefranklinmusic

Cover

Recording Artist, Jae Franklin @jaefranklinmusic wearing @fulanifashion. Earrings @RozaliyaJewelry. Photographer @thejrwest. Fashion Editor @jerrismadison. Makeup @alexisfaganmua. Hairstylist @zarahair1.