We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jade Fink a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jade, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve been around music for as long as I can remember. Growing up both of my parents loved music and had an extensive CD collection that my sister and I would go through and choose from. Their collection ranged in genres from hard rock, to ska, to jazz and more. I’ve always been drawn to music and art, and although I tried participating in many of the typical activities of my peers in school – soccer, running, football games, etc. – the only thing that ever stuck was music. I started playing drums when I was 8 years old, and when I was 12 I picked up the electric bass, which has since become my primary instrument. Playing music with others gave me a sense of community and belonging. The friends I made through bands and shows were the ones I were closest to, even though we went to different schools. When I was 15, I did my first tour through a program called the School of Rock All Stars. That week of traveling and playing shows in new places every night was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. I felt truly joyous and connected. Nothing else ever made me feel as electric and passionate as music and I knew that was what I wanted to do with my life.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a bassist and songwriter based in Los Angeles and I tour with bands and artists across many genres. I primarily tour as a hired bassist and background vocalist, but I write and release my own solo music as well. My music falls in the indie alternative category, but what I love most about being a freelance musician is getting to play so many different types of music with so many different people. Every tour brings new thrills and experiences that I cherish. I feel that my ability to adapt and chameleon to whatever the artist or band I’m playing for needs me to be is something that sets me apart from others. I have my core values and my bass tone preferences dialed in, but I can change my look and approach in many different ways to fit into all kinds of gigs. My flexibility without losing any of my consistency and reliability is a quality I pride myself on. I would love for those who do not know me to see my passion for forming new friendships and connections. Exploring new music through the unique experience of sharing the stage together is one of my biggest joys.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

To me the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ultimate freedom of expression I have. Whether it’s writing my own music and lyrics to directly share my thoughts and feelings, or putting my all into a show for an artist playing their music with them, I feel so lucky that my job is also my outlet. You can be having a terrible day or going through something really difficult, but once you hit that stage nothing but the music matters. That escape is something I hold very dear, and it’s an escape not only for myself, but also for those who come to the show. I value the ability to connect with strangers and share a moment with them. At a live concert you become one with the audience and you have that time together that unifies you.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

I think a general misconception about being a musician is that it is not a “real job” and that we don’t actually work, we just party. This is quite the opposite of reality for most serious professionals in the industry. Most people have no idea how much behind the scenes work goes into every show. While I do think playing music is the most fun career you could have, at the end of the day it is my job and I have to remain professional. You have hours of practicing and prep work that go in before a tour, not to mention the fact that you have to show up to every show every night and give the crowd the best time of their lives. It doesn’t matter if you’re tired, sick, your bus broke down and you had to leave behind half of your gear. You still have to come in and perform at your highest level. Music is an extremely competitive industry, and working hard is essential if you want to continue your career. You have to be your own advocate, business manager, and coach.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @jade_fink
• Other: Spotify: Jade Fink
  Inquiries: [email protected]

Image Credits

Jacqueline Day, Ryan Falcoa