Interview with Christopher Jackson

Jun 6, 2023

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

I’m the youngest of three kids. My older sisters brought home “Kiss Alive” on 8 track and that was it. I heard Peter Criss’ drum solo and I was hooked! I started on the drums and then picked up the guitar. Eventually I was obsessed with anything that made music. If I hadn’t started playing music it would have been something to do with art. Drawing, painting, theatre. The right side of my brain is dominant for sure.

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

By day I work with students who have special needs. It is a rewarding profession that instills empathy. Opens your mind to many walks of life and provides inspiration.

How long have you been making music?

I’ve been making music since I was little. I started taking music lessons around the age of nine.

Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?

I am based out of Kingston ON Canada. This city is full of great music and musicians. I have been fortunate enough to play with some of the greatest in the area. I have taken what I can from those experiences and have made me a better musician for it.

Tell me about your most memorable shows, if you haven’t played live what is your vision for a live show?

One of my most memorable was playing bass in a band called QueenSize. Our last show was twenty years ago which happened to be the leads singers due date for her first child. Her guitar laid flat across her belly. In between songs I would wipe her brow to keep the sweat from running into her eyes. The place was packed!

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

My favourite place to play is the BluMartini in Kingston ON. It is a gig I have every Friday. There are a few places I want to get into. The Cameron House in Toronto being one.

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into making music and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

I would say to anyone including my younger self, don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Let the process happen naturally.

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

“Best of Me”. This song represents positive changes in my life. Overcoming challenges and being the best person I can be.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

I think “Eyes the Prize” is my favourite song of mine to play. I love the big vocal harmonies and the energy this song has. My most requested is my first single “Only You”.

What is your creative process, and what inspires you to write your music?

My process varies. My songs start on guitar, sometimes drums. I just never know how it will happen. Writing music is therapy for me. Music is therapy for many. Seeing how my music makes people happy is my fuel.

Do you have messages that you like to get across in your music, if so please tell me about them?

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

My plan is to play, write and record music for the rest of my life. I was born to do this. My recent album is just that start of what’s to come. I’m very excited about the future.

How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?