Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Charlie J Memphis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Charlie J, thanks for joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Though I’m happy to be a creative and have the opportunity to do what I love as a career, I do often ponder what life would be like under the umbrella of 9 to 5 living. Following your dreams and passion will never be convenient till you’ve “made it” and there are a lot easier ways to make money in this life than to pursue life within music. What I tell folk is to either love it or leave it; there’s enough artists struggling to make it who’re passionate about their craft. Admittedly however, If this ship does sink into absolute obscurity I plan to get my Class-A CDL and drive eighteen wheels ‘cross the country! It’s like bein on tour, but without the music.

Charlie J, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I was 11 years old without any real passion or direction to my life, just playing video games and finishing school really. My parents had thrown me in different directions with Soccer, Boy Scouts and Lacrosse, but nothing kept my interest. However, after moving back into Illinois my parents decided to enroll me into School of Rock Naperville- I learned to play guitar and destroy my vocal chords to the likes of the Clash, Offspring and the Misfits for a show at Lincoln Hall (Chicago). After shaking like a toy Chihuahua and performing for half an hour I felt what I could only describe as a “Destiny Ring”! I remember looking up at my Dad and telling him that this (performing music) is what I wanted to do.

However, It wasn’t till I was 15 that I decided to do it professionally. My family moved from Naperville, IL to Roanoke, TX valentine’s day 2015 and I had been in a year long slump not playing a single melody outside my house. Nonetheless, once 2015 rolled around I decided I’d get up off my ass and start playing! Granted, I didn’t know anybody and figured punk wasn’t all that popular, so I’d learn to play on my own. In turn, after years of playing by myself, in a band and as a bassist for multiple acts I’d becoming the artist I am now!

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

The most rewarding thing for me, wether playing a show or playing to a small group of people, is to see the music I play have an impact on them. Wether they’re dancing, stomping their feet, hollering, clapping and even crying! Nothing touches my heart more than to see someone tear up to a song I wrote.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My ultimate, and admittedly selfish goal, is to be able to live off my craft that I’ve worked so hard on for about 10 years now. To prove that pairing both determination and passion can get you to where you want to be, no matter how big or small!

Contact Info:

• Website: charliejmemphis.com
• Instagram: @charliejmemphis
• Facebook: Charlie J Memphis
• Twitter: charliejmemphis
• Youtube: Charlie J Memphis

Image Credits
Cover Photo: Bethany Johanna 1st Photo: Conrad Lenzmeier 2nd Photo: Joe Swink 3rd: Nazanin Ashorzadeh 4th: Bethany Johanna