9.01.2015

In The Spotlight: Singer/Songwriter J.R.

Another spotlight for you all! As always, if you are or represent an upcoming artist, designer, poet, etc., please visit our Features/Submissions page for more information!

Today, we have singer/songwriter J.R. (aka Rome)! Hailing from Hartford, CT, the musician got his start in music while his parents were pastors at a small church. J.R. also acknowledged that, at home, his house was “filled with music.” “My mother is a singer and she would sing gospel 24/7,” he said. “I think that’s why melodies constantly play in my head in the sound of my mother’s voice. Sounds crazy I know, but she is a vital part to my creativity.” Jerome’s mother introduced him to gospel music with an R&B twist, which Jerome loved and eventually made his own. The singer was also inspired by his older brother, who produces a lot of his music. “I watched his gift grow and just really wanted to follow in his footsteps,” J.R. said. Around his sophomore year of high school, he realized that he wanted to pursue music seriously, and began to truly hone his craft for a professional career.



Inspired by artists like Tank, Tyrese, Michael Jackson, Teddy Pendergrass, and the Isley Brothers among others, J.R.’s R&B music is truly passionate and emotional, and speaks on several different topics. “From heartbreak records to taboo subjects, I try to give you all a glimpse of what goes on in my head,” the artist admitted. His latest track, “Haunted,” definitely gives us a look into his personal life as he sings of being “haunted” by the memories of an ex. “In the time period where you’re trying to move on, there are certain things that can happen,” J.R. admitted. “Sometimes no matter what you do there will be things that remind you of them. Pictures, a TV show, even smells can drudge up painful or fond memories.” In those times, the artist stated that it’s possible to try to do things to fill that void. Check out the official video for “Haunted” below!


J.R. believes his approach to creating music is what separates him from other singers out now. “I put a lot of emotion and time into creating something that the listener can feel on a deeper level than what most music gives you these days,” he said. Currently, the artist is putting the finishing touches on his debut project, Finding Myself, which is set to be released in the fall! You’ll hear his influences on the project, and will be able to get to know more about the artist and his thoughts. “It will definitely reveal a lot about me,” J.R. said. “Prepare for it. It gets wild!”

In the future, J.R. wants to truly make a lasting mark on the industry, and know that he has it in him to do so. “ I really believe that I make timeless music that the listener can enjoy for years on in,” he said. “Just wait and see.” We look forward to hearing more from this artist in the future!

You can hear more from J.R. on his SoundCloud and YouTube pages!

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