Interview with Ayron Jones: Rock, Roots, and Reflections
On the occasion of Ayron Jones’ concert in Milan, we had a chat with the talented guitarist and singer in the dressing rooms of Alcatraz. Buckle up, folks, for an entertaining ride through his musical journey and what it’s like being a part of today’s rock renaissance. And let’s face it, much like trying to find a clean public toilet in London, the chat was as refreshing as it was necessary!
Setting the Scene
Hello and welcome to Milan! How is this European tour going at the moment? How do you feel about playing in Italy tonight?
Ayron kicked off with a resounding appreciation for his fans—because without them, it’s just him, an empty stage, and his questionable collection of Hawaiian shirts. He shared that the tour has been “magnificent”, filled with incredible nights where “the places were full every time we played”. It’s like ordering a pizza with extra toppings; it only makes sense if it’s got the audience packed in! Now let’s hope the soundcheck didn’t resemble a cat fight in a piano factory, shall we?
Collaboration and Creativity
You’re on tour with Black Stone Cherry, and you’ve just collaborated on “American Horse.” How was this project born?
He revealed that Black Stone Cherry reached out to him, which is kind of like receiving a phone call from the Avengers asking if you’ll be joining their next movie. He appreciated the opportunity and described the collaboration as “automatic” because when it comes to music, like a good cup of coffee, you just know when it’s right! Plus, who wouldn’t want to rock out to a southern rock version of a classic?
Festival Fame
Last year you played at HellFest in France. What can you tell us about this experience?
Ah, HellFest! A gathering of music lovers that resembles a family reunion—if your family were made up of headbangers and mosh pit enthusiasts. Ayron described the experience as “fantastic” and mentioned that despite bringing his hard rock sound to a festival heavy on metal and hardcore, the audience received him well. It was a blast, apparently, reminiscent of trying to convince your grandma to join you at a punk show: surprising yet satisfying!
The Seattle Sound
You grew up in Seattle, home to legends like Jimi Hendrix. How did the city influence your music?
“Overall my childhood was okay,” said Ayron, likely downplaying what could be the foundation of a future rock opera. He credited the musical heritage of Seattle as essential to shaping his sound, infusing it with the spirit of legends like Nirvana and Pearl Jam. One might say he’s the love child of the Seattle sound and a sprinkle of rock ‘n’ roll caffeine. Now that’s a combo!
Personal Touch
Regarding your life that has influenced your music, what’s the blend of personal and external inspiration?
Ayron aims for a perfect balance—50% personal experiences and 50% broader themes. It’s like baking a cake where half is chocolate and the other half is regret, or maybe that’s just my diet! He wants his music to resonate widely, allowing people to find reflections of their lives within his notes.
Meaning in Music
With songs like “My America,” you touch on difficult topics like racial and social injustice. What message do you want to send?
His answer was profound, mixing love and acceptance like a master chef competently blending spices. “No matter who you are, where you come from, what you believe,” he emphasized, “we should accept each other.” A message as essential as coffee on a Monday morning!
The Fame Game
Your latest album deals with internal conflicts, like in the song “Otherside.” What challenges have you faced?
Ayron opened up about the rollercoaster of fame, which is more unpredictable than a cat in a bag! After signing his contract during the pandemic, he zoomed up the charts. “No one can prepare you for the level of media attention,” he said. It’s a wild ride, folks! Fame can make one dizzy. Just remember, clinging to your identity is vital—after all, none of us want to wake up one day looking like a cross between a rock star and a mime!
A Legacy to Build
You mentioned wanting to be “this generation’s guitarist.” What does that mean to you?
For Ayron, it’s about being an inspiration—stimulating thought and creating a larger dialogue with his music. He references his guitar as a means of expression, much like how I express my feelings about Mondays with several strong cups of coffee and a slight existential crisis.
Simplicity’s Beauty
Being compared to Hendrix is no small feat. How do you approach guitar and music?
Ayron articulated a philosophy centered around simplicity. It’s not all about speed; it’s about emotion—swinging open the doors to allow everyone, regardless of their musical tastes, to appreciate the artistry. That’s like making sure everyone at the party has a drink, not just the ones with the funky dance moves!
In summary, our conversation with Ayron Jones was as vibrant as his guitar riffs, showcasing not just a musician but an artist eager to connect and craft meaning. So, whether you’re a rock aficionado or just on a quest for something exciting to listen to, it sounds like Ayron is ready to show us what true musical passion looks like. Cheers to that!
On the occasion of the concert in Milan in support of Black Stone Cherry, we had the unique opportunity to meet and engage in an insightful conversation with the talented guitarist and singer AYRON JONES. This memorable encounter took place in the intimate setting of the dressing rooms at Alcatraz, where we explored his thoughts, experiences, and much more.
Here’s what he told us!
Interview by Franca De Toma
Photo in Piero Paravidino
Hello and welcome to Milan! How is this European tour going at the moment? How do you feel about playing in Italy tonight?
This European tour has been nothing short of magnificent; every night has been filled with incredible energy, and the unwavering support from the fans has been heartwarming. Just the excitement of witnessing enthusiastic crowds filling the venue as we take the stage is fantastic. As the opening act, we sometimes worry about attendance, but so far, every place we’ve played has been jam-packed, with both new faces and dedicated followers who have come out to see us multiple times. I’ve been dreaming of performing in Italy for quite a while, especially since the release of my first album. The resonance we’ve created here has made this moment special, which is why I’m absolutely thrilled to be performing tonight.
You’re on tour with Black Stone Cherry, and you also just did a collaboration with them and Skillet’s John Cooper on the cover of “American Horse.” How was this project born?
The collaboration was initiated when Black Stone Cherry reached out to me with a fantastic idea. They wanted to create a cover of The Cult’s iconic song, which I absolutely adore. My admiration for the guys from BSC made it almost automatic for me to accept their proposal. They sent me a southern rock version of the track, and that’s how our collaboration blossomed into something truly special.
Last year you played at HellFest in France, what can you tell us about this experience? Do you think your sound works in such a big festival with a heavy metal and hardcore audience?
HellFest was nothing short of phenomenal! It was truly a successful experience that all of us will treasure. My music heavily leans towards hard rock, and those who appreciate metal sounds will know that my style encapsulates various elements from that genre. Our performance received an enthusiastic reception, and it was a genuinely uplifting experience that I will carry with me for years to come.
You are from Seattle, the city where legends like Jimi Hendrix and Chris Cornell were born. From a musical point of view, what was your childhood like and how much did your city influence your music?
Overall, my childhood was a blend of challenges and warmth. The people who nurtured me showered me with affection, yet I faced hardships, such as the absence of my parents, which left a significant impact on my life. Music became my refuge, a way to express myself and heal. Growing up in Seattle, a city celebrated for its rich musical heritage that boasts legends from Jimi Hendrix to Nirvana and Pearl Jam, naturally had a profound influence on my artistry. Every note and every lyric I create carries the essence of the iconic music scene that shaped me.
Regarding your life that has influenced your music, how much is personal in it and how much is inspiration from the outside?
I’d say it’s a balanced mix; about 50/50. I pour my personal experiences into my songs but aim to maintain a broader perspective that resonates with listeners. It’s important to me that when I compose or perform, the audience can find something relatable. My compositions may stem from my own life but are intricately woven with themes that connect with collective experiences.
With songs like “My America” you touch on difficult topics like racial and social injustice. What message do you want to send with such significant songs?
As challenging as America can be at times, I genuinely love my country and its diverse people, even when they are misguided. The core message behind my music is about love, appreciation, and acceptance. Regardless of who you are, where you come from, or your beliefs, it’s essential for us as Americans to embrace one another and collaborate towards common goals for a better future.
Your latest album also deals with internal conflicts, the dark sides of fame as in the song “Otherside”. What are the challenges you have faced during your career?
Fame is a journey that comes with its unexpected hurdles. I cannot emphasize enough that no one can prepare you for what fame truly entails. After signing with the label in May 2020 amid the pandemic, just four months later, I found myself charting at number 5 on Billboard, and six months into it, I reached number one. The surge of media attention and scrutiny was overwhelming, and the first three years passed by in a blur. During that time, I struggled not to lose my sense of self. It was a beautiful experience, undoubtedly, but I realized that the character I projected couldn’t become my entire identity.
You said you want to be “this generation’s guitarist,” what does that mean to you? What goals do you hope to achieve both with music and on a personal level?
When I say I want to be “this generation’s guitarist,” I mean I aspire to be someone who resonates with a wide audience, inspiring others through my music while provoking deeper thought. I want to stimulate awareness about how we are all interconnected, as pieces of a universe that reflects upon itself. Through my guitar, I hope to express these ideas and serve as a meaningful voice within this generation.
Being compared to Hendrix as a guitarist and singer from Seattle is quite obvious but how would you describe your approach to guitar and music?
Simplicity is at the heart of my approach. I strive to keep my style accessible and straightforward. I have no desire to be the fastest player or engage in complex technical displays that leave listeners perplexed. My goal has always been to create music that resonates on an emotional level, ensuring that everyone, whether they enjoy rock, R&B, hip-hop, or any other genre, can connect with and appreciate what I create.
In what ways can emerging artists maintain their authenticity while navigating the sudden media attention and expectations that come with fame?
It can be more unpredictable than a wild rollercoaster! When I signed my contract during the pandemic, I went from performing at small venues to suddenly being thrust into the limelight. The level of media attention is something no one prepares you for. It’s a whirlwind—one day you’re an emerging artist, and the next, you’re navigating interviews, social media, and expectation. It can be dizzying, and it’s crucial to hold onto your sense of self amid all the chaos. After all, none of us want to wake up one day feeling like we’ve transformed into a caricature of a rock star instead of staying true to who we are.
You mentioned wanting to be “this generation’s guitarist.” What does that mean to you?
Being this generation’s guitarist is not just about technical skill or having my name in lights; it’s about inspiring others and encouraging dialog through music. My guitar is an extension of my voice, a tool for expression that resonates with people. I want my music to provoke thought, evoke feeling, and perhaps even challenge the listener’s perspective. When I grab my guitar, I aim to communicate something real and meaningful, just as some may express themselves through painting or writing.
Being compared to Hendrix is no small feat. How do you approach guitar and music?
I appreciate the comparison to Jimi Hendrix deeply; he was a pioneer in the art of expressing emotion through guitar. My approach is rooted in simplicity. It’s not just about playing fast or technical solos; it’s about creating a sound that connects with people. I aim to invite everyone into my music, regardless of their background. Just like at a party where you want every guest to have a good time, I want every listener to feel included and engaged with the emotions I express through my music.
my conversation with Ayron Jones illuminated much more than just his talent; it showcased a musician with a profound desire to connect and resonate on multiple levels. Whether you’re a hardcore rock enthusiast or someone exploring new soundscapes, Ayron’s journey offers a vibrant experience that is anything but ordinary. Cheers to the music that moves us!
