Jesse Clegg was only six months old when he hit the road, touring with his dad he enjoyed the diversity our world had to offer.
In Jesse’s teens his dad’s touring settled down and so he was able to focus more on he’s studies. Throughout school Jesse played a number of instruments but eventually it was the guitar that won he’s passion. He soon began to form he’s own individualism and was pulled towards a more rock genre of music. At sixteen he was already writing he’s own lyrics and developing songs. It was in Jesse’s gap year after matriculating, that producer, Brian O’ Shea jumped on board and together they began working on what would be he’s debut album.
In 2007 he travelled internationally with his dad, he performed alongside him to crowds of people in a number of festivals in France. In the same year a major Belgian producer, Nicolas Fizman, agreed to co-produce on Jesse’s album and by the end of 2007 it was complete. Jesse then signed a major record deal with David Gresham Records and towards the end of 2008 ‘When I Wake Up‘ was released.
Jesse has already experienced some tremendous highlights in the development of he’s musical future and at twenty his career is still an infant. All the same, if his first album is anything to go by, there will be many more unbelievable career highlights for this rock kid turned artiste.
Interview
Even though your debut album has only been out a few months and is still fresh in the air. You have already experienced so much in the world of music, what kind of impact do you find this has had on your career so far?
JC: I grew up on tour with my dad, the first 6 years of my life were spent on tour busses and in hotel rooms. I saw the real side of the music industry, not just the glamour but the hardships as well. When I decided to become a musician I was fortunate that I could make this decision with a good understanding of what a career in music really entails and what is required of a musician in order to be successful. The countless live shows that I attended on tour in Europe and America (not just my dad’s), inspired me and I saw the magic of live performance. As a musician myself I would love to emulate these amazing shows.
For those who have it and for those who are still looking to get your album, can you tell us more about ‘When I Wake Up’?
JC: This album is made up of 11 songs, in which I explore different sides to my writing as well as my own thoughts, emotions and ideas. The album is a sort of collage of sounds, melodies, harmonies and musical styles within the rock genre. No two songs sound the same and in this way I think there is something for everyone on this album. The title is named after one of the tracks on the album by the same name, this was simply because it is one of my favourite songs on the album and the lyrics are particularly meaningful to me. The title is thus open to interpretation, the personal meaning I have given the song may be completely different to how other people relate to it.
‘Today’ is really a thought provoking song with a timeless melody, what were your influences for the music and lyrics?
JC: Today is a very introspective song. It is about somebody working through their life and trying to make sense of their feelings of loneliness, melancholy and alienation. It describes a state of mind where someone cannot find meaning in their life anymore and they are looking into themselves to try and discover why. The loneliness theme could also be linked to a past relationship that never worked out; a feeling of longing and regret. However the song itself is an uplifting one, which ultimately is saying that just because you can’t see the goodness in your life, it doesn’t mean its not there. People go through difficult phases but always emerge out of them a little stronger and a little wiser; the song is saying that we must keep our eyes on the horizon and not let difficult periods phase us!
Who or what is it that inspires you when it comes to your lyrics and music?
JC: Personal experience like my own life, thoughts and emotions. Books and movies are a big source of inspiration for me as well as other peoples’ lives and stories. There is a huge amount one can write about just in daily life, I try to stay aware and sensitive to these things no matter what I’m doing.
You were drawn to music at an early age. Being the son of Johnny Clegg, it was probably difficult to ignore the attraction, but if you weren’t following your destiny to record and perform.What do you think you would be doing?
JC: To be honest I never really wanted to be a musician when I was young, it was only when I was 13 that I actually considered it. I studied BA Law at Wits this year and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I think if I wasn’t doing music I’d probably get into law. I’m going to study part time next year.
So what does Jesse like to do to chill?
JC: Hang out with friends and family, go to movies, play squash, and write songs.
There is some fabulous young talent emerging in the South African music industry. Do you have any advice for these young stars in the making?
JC: Write songs from your heart, don’t try sounding like or being something that you are not; do music because it’s what you love not for any other reason.
What is the one thing that not many people know about you?
JC: I’m a huge film buff! I love art movies and go to cinema nouveau all the time!
So what are your plans for this year going forward?
JC: I want to really focus on my live act and put together an emotional and energetic show, people must leave the performances inspired. I have a number of really amazing shows lined up for this year, such as the Civic Theatre in Johannesburg on the 11th, 12th and 13th of March. I’m really excited for people to hear my first album and the release of more upcoming singles, we’ll be focusing on promoting ‘When I Wake Up’ as much as possible.
Article by Kim Simpson
