BSCkids recently had the opportunity to chat with Jackson Harris, a talented singer and songwriter who is joining Cody Simpson on tour for the upcoming European Tour!
Jackson has worked with many notable talents both within his music videos and in the studio, such as Vita Chambers (Universal Republic), Judah Friedlander (30 Rock) and Lucy Hale (Pretty Little Liars). He has also toured with R5 and up-and-coming act Before you Exit, amongst others.
With his four-song EP and hit singles “Go Crazy,” “Come Back Down To Earth” and “Gone In a Heartbeat” under his belt, Jackson was thrilled to release his new album, Sharks & Vampires, in early 2014. The first single, “Miss Me,” was an instant hit among critics and fans alike. Most recently, his single “Life Through a Lens” was featured as the intro in videos for YouTube sensation The Shaytards, who have over 1 billion YouTube views on their channel and 2.6 million subscribers.
You can read our interview with Harris below!
BSCkids: Jackson Harris
How young did you first realize you wanted a career in music?
I think I was around 11 years old when I started to notice that music was something I really enjoyed.
How supportive were your friends and family when you growing up of your career choice?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have such a supportive family. My mom and sister always keep me grounded and my friends have continued to be so positive about the whole process.
Tell us about your song, “Fight No More.” What is the meaning behind it?
The song speaks to a relationship I had in which the girl continued to be defensive and throw up walls. I wanted to show her I only wanted to love her.
Do you write all your own music? What is your process?
Yes. I write all of my own music, usually in collaboration with a producer. I try to take the experiences I have had and put them into songs.
Who in music do you find inspires you and your music the most?
Love and the relationships I’ve had are usually the centerpieces for my music. But I’m always inspired by my surroundings.
Tell us about your album, “Sharks & Vampires.” Does it have any overall feel or theme?
The theme for the record is honesty. I wanted people to hear where I am in life. Almost like a musical journal.
You have worked with so many talented people, who has been the most inspiring?
The most inspiring people I have met are the people that are battling much more difficult things than I. We do a fair amount of charity work, and to me, people who help those in need are true heroes.
What does it feel like to open for a big name like Cody Simpson?
It feels amazing. Cody is not only a great musician but also good friend. I’m very thankful to get the opportunity.
What is your process to get ready before a big show or crowd? Do you still get stage fright?
I nervously drink a lot of water before I go on stage. Easily about 6 bottles. I also warm up my voice about an hour or so before I hit the stage. Other than that, I just try to breathe and enjoy the moment.
What has been the most difficult but rewarding moment in your music career so far?
The most difficult part has to be the traveling and the “down-time”. I’m on stage for an hour or so a night and then there are 23 other hours of the day to fill. But even if I am tired or under the weather I always bounce back to put on a show.
If you could record a song with anyone, who would it be?
Paul McCartney
What do you do in your free time?
I watch a lot of YouTube and movies. I also love using my free time to try my hand at other creative things like photography or drawing.
What is your favorite song right now and why?
FourFiveSeconds By Rihanna , Kanye West and Paul McCartney … I love it because it is so different yet seemingly familiar.
Do you have any advice for young singers and songwriters trying to breakout?
Collaborate with as many likeminded people as you can. Always record your random ideas because they could turn into something great, and don’t be afraid to fail!
Tour Dates:
April 22, 2015 – Helsinki,Finland
April 24, 2015 – Gothenburg, Sweden
April 26, 2015 – Bergen,Norway
April 27, 2015 – Stavanger, Norway
April 28, 2015 – Aarhus, Denmark
April 29, 2015 – Berlin, Germany
May 1, 2015 – Warsaw, Poland
May 3, 2015 – Hamburg, Germany
May 4, 2015 – Cologne, Germany
May 6, 2015 – London, UK
May 7, 2015 – Manchester, UK
May 8, 2015 – Birmingham, UK
May 10, 2015 – Utrecht, Netherlands
May 12, 2015 – Paris, France
May 14, 2015 – Zurich, Switzerland
May 15, 2015 – Milan, Italy
May 17, 2015 – Barcelona, Spain
May 18, 2015 – Madrid, Spain
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