In this day of highly commercialized music by individuals who have more of a “marketable look” than real talent, it’s refreshing to discover someone like Jeremy Thornton to remind you that real music and real musicians still exist.
The Chicago-native’s classic-rock-meets-neo-soul musical vibe is reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix, Prince, and Lenny Kravitz. It might be hard to believe that he got his start in hip-hop and collaborated on projects that launched the early careers of talents like Bonecrusher and Lil Jon.
Thornton’s current album, When Ugly People Made Good Music, is a refreshing collection of heartfelt songs about life and love. His unique musical style and thoughtful, poetic lyrics prove to listeners that this self-taught musician is more than the product of a musical assembly line. He is a true artist.
Six String Theories: When did your desire to be a singer/musician/songwriter begin?
Thornton: It began very young. I was a hip hop artist when I first started out. That provided me with a respect for words and I have just evolved into the person and music that you hear now.
Six String Theories: What artists influence you?
Thornton: Wow, that is a big question. I like so many artists and genres of music that is hard to answer. I really like Prince, Isley Brothers, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Michael Jackson, and Mother’s Finest just to name a few.
Six String Theories: Besides music, what other things inspire you?
Thornton: I think everyday life and situations. When you talk about things you know and experience, it comes off very genuine.
Six String Theories: Tell me about your latest CD…particularly the title?
Thornton: Absolutely! It is called When Ugly People Made Good Music. Basically, there was a time before videos and visuals where you just experienced songs just by hearing them. You actually judged the song on how it felt in your heart. That is what I wanted to get back too with this album. So I just made songs on the CD that I loved and I’ll let the chips fall where they may.
Six String Theories: What do you think about the musical genre “Neo-Soul?” Do you think that is an appropriate classification for your music?
Thornton: I love the music and when people describe themselves as such it is cool. Although, I don’t think that describes me as an artist. It is a part of me, but I am a multi-genre artist. I have experienced all types of music, and I draw from it all.
Six String Theories: What is your reaction or response when people compare you to Lenny Kravitz, Prince, or Maxwell?
Thornton: I appreciate the compliment and keep it moving. Those are all great artist that I respect.
Six String Theories: What are you up to? Are you on tour? Do you have any other projects on the horizon?
Thornton: I am currently working on a series of singles that I will start to release at the end of November. The first single will be Hold on Me, a song about a relationship gone wrong, but you just cannot shake love that you have for that person. It has a kind of danceable feel to it. I will be going out on a few tour dates at the end of November/December to support the songs. I am working out the details now.
Jeremy Thornton’s album previous Rize Up is also available for purchase. You can follow him on Twitter, ReverbNation, and MySpace.
Peace & Blessings