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

Jimena, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

I’m from Mexico City. I moved to Los Angeles to pursue my career in music, starting by attending Musicians Institute. After graduating, I started some small gigs and tours in town, and around the U.S. There were, of course, ups and downs throughout the years. I’m proud to say now I’m an international touring guitarist who has played in arenas, coliseums, stadiums and theaters.

I’ve worked for Disney +, ABC, played with various musicians like grammy winners, Latin grammy winners, Steve Vai, Dave Weiner, Philip Bynoe, Paul Reed Smith(PRS Guitars), Scott Paige(Pink Floyd), Gilby Clark (Guns N Roses), Dave Evans (AC/DC), Mike Beal (Earth Wind and Fire) Tim Pierce, Plain White T’s, HS NATION, Drake Bell, Rockland, judge of The Voice Mexico Maria Leon, among others.
As well as endorsed by big companies such as PRS Guitars, EMG Pickups, Elixir Strings, Mono Cases, 64 Audio.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

At first, it wasn’t easy, I had doubts along the road and fears of not making it. As soon as I got on the plane on my way to move to L.A., the uncertainty kicked in. I think whenever we are facing challenges to get out of our comfort zones, the uncertainty can cause some fears because we’re taking a risk. A risk of failing but also a risk of making things better than they are at that moment. After going through experiences, you learn how to work your way and form a path for what you believe, for what you want, and for what you stand for.

I firmly believe, being consistent and disciplined is what makes a difference. I had to learn the hard way to be able to know as an artist my craft and my worth. I started going out to multiple events that had to do with the music industry even when I didn’t have much to offer on my resume. Meeting people and learning the process of networking is key.

I think finding what sets you apart from the crowd is a big advantage. As artist we create constantly and it’s a form of leaving something in this world for others to share.

I think playing with different peoiple and using social media to reach out to people has helped me to be in the public eye that the result of it and people spreading the word got me auditions and eventually big gigs.

It was always a dream to play in arenas in front of 60K people. Once you hit that point you have to maintain the spark that keeps you going.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

A year after I graduated Musicians Institute I wasn’t sure how to get bigger gigs. Something I always dreamed about.

I was uploading videos on Instagram and Facebook and a producer for musical theater reached out to me about a play. I personally have never been interested in musical theater so I didn’t take the offer too seriously until he sent me the material and I loved the musical challenges of odd time signatures, diverse genres, etc.

The play was produced all the way from the UK. The show was so successful we won 7 awards for it. We toured all across Mexico and that gave me the chance to play in front of 60K people in arenas for the first time at 23 years old. That was a pivot that changed my resume completely for further opportunities.

Accepting that gig opened a path for me in Mexico that led my career back to the U.S. and eventually touring other continents as I do currently.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

As I always say, consistency is key. I uploaded videos regularly, playing different things. I started searching for people in the niche and learned the ways that helped those creators. I tried them myself and made variations. Learn to be organized, create a schedule, know what type of content to post, and consider the production like the way it looks, quality, audio etc. At the end of the day, social media is a way to get gigs as a musician.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jimenafosado.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimenafosado/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimenaFosado/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/jimenafosado

Image Credits
Eduardo Pineda