Jesse Montoya is a rising start on the Jacksonville music scene. Her singing and guitar playing style is getting her noticed as the number of venues she is seen performing in increase.
The crew at Monahan's Song have seen her many times and we interviewed her at one of her gigs:
What was the first song you ever learned to play?
The Twilight Zone Theme song was the first song I ever learned.
What was the first song you ever performed in front of an audience?
Waiting for Dawn by Andrew York was the first song that I ever performed solo.
What was the coolest venue you ever performed in?
Its a three-way tie; The Jacksonville Landing, Underbelly for Dylan Fest 2013 and The Riverside Arts Market
Your style more than hints of a classical training in the past. How has that helped your performing/ songwriting?
I am a finger-style player first and foremost, even my country and traditional blues playing is finger-style. My classical training helped me a great deal by giving me the techniques to pursue those genres with fewer obstacles. Of course each genre has its own expressions but that is more a matter of the ear than technique.
What advice would you give someone who is just now starting to write and perform in North Florida?
In the beginning playing every show possible helped me overcome my stage fright. It also taught me that the audience wants musicians to play well and they want to have a good time. So "Go where it's dangerous and say yes" - Ry Cooder
What famous musicians do you admire? Why?
There are so many that I admire, but here are a few:
- Patsy Cline for her perfect voice.
- Skip James for his guitar style.
- John Lee Hooker for his stomping foot.
There are great performers making music in Jacksonville. Who is your biggest local influence?
My biggest local influences are Tala, Newstrangers, and of course Ron Aubrey Johnson. They are all amazing musicians and an inspiration to anyone who loves the study of Music.
How do you balance your music with other life obligations?
Truthfully I have no idea how I balance my obligations. I currently work two jobs and play as many gigs as possible. It gets pretty hectic sometimes but I am lucky to have such wonderful bosses who value musicians and the art of making music.
Where can we see you play?
I perform all around Jacksonville. You can see me at Burro Bar, Underbelly, Bold Bean, Riverside Arts Market, Buddha Lounge, Grape & Grain Exchange, etc. I have also performed in St. Augustine at Jackson's Garage and Shanghai Nobby's. I am currently planning a tour of the Southeast for Spring 2015.
Jesse Montoya: jessecarole@gmail.com
