We were lucky to catch up with Jimmy Massa recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jimmy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I think parts of it just came naturally.

Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. A crucible of blues, soul, and R&B, has been a profound influence on my musical journey. From an early age, I’ve been surrounded by the sounds of legends like B.B. King, 8 Ball & MJG, Three Six Mafia, Otis Redding, and even more obscure artists like Jay Retard. I don’t think there is much I need to say about Beale Street, with its vibrant nightlife and live music scene — or the legendary Stax Records, and the way that music told all of these different stories.

All of that history sparked something in me for sure but many people don’t get to see the other side. There is so much beyond Graceland and Beale St. that drives the culture and creative pulse of the city and I have to give credit to that exposure too, if not more. A city of dreamers and go-getters, in a sense disenfranchised and forgotten, we always had to kind of do our own thing because growing up in the city you know from a young age nobody is coming to save you. So everybody has big dreams, we’re all just trying to dream our way out of different circumstances, and for a lot of us, music just seems like the natural path because that’s all we’ve ever really had.

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

I’m American singer-songwriter & Record Producer, Jimmy Massa, here with Canvas Rebel.

My journey into the music industry has been a passionate journey, shaped by the rich heritage of my hometown and a lifelong love for storytelling through art.

My entry into the music world began at a young age, inspired by the soulful sounds that filled my home and the iconic musical landmarks of Memphis. I started singing in the local church choir, where I learned the fundamentals of vocal performance and harmony. My passion for songwriting developed during my teenage years, as I began to jot down my thoughts and experiences in a notebook that eventually transformed into lyrics and melodies.

Determined to make my mark, I performed at local venues and open mic nights, gradually building a following. A pivotal moment came when a local producer noticed my performance and offered me the opportunity to record a demo. This led to my first recording contract and opened the doors to a career in music production and songwriting.

After over 15 years working in and out of the studio, I provide a range of creative services:

Music Production: I produce tracks for myself and other artists, ensuring that each song captures the intended emotion and message. My production style blends the soulful roots of Memphis with contemporary sounds, creating a unique and compelling sonic experience.

Songwriting: Crafting lyrics and melodies that resonate deeply with listeners is at the heart of what I do. I write songs across various genres, always aiming to tell authentic stories that connect with people on a personal level.

Performances: I perform live at concerts, festivals, and intimate venues, bringing my music to life and creating memorable experiences for my audience.

Collaborations: I collaborate with other musicians, songwriters, and producers, contributing my skills and vision to create innovative and impactful music.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

In essence, what drives me to create is a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of art. It is both a personal journey of self-expression and a communal effort to foster connection, empathy, and positive change.

My earliest memories of music come from my grandmother’s music collection. I was raised in a large family home with all of my relatives 23 of us total, and a lot of mouths to feed. We didn’t have it easy, but despite our circumstances, she always found a way to fill her home with everything we needed, and that included music. My grandmother had a nice collection of vinyl and 8-track tapes so we’d just play music all day and that got us through some really hard times.

I’ve always understood that music has the power to change the world by inspiring empathy and understanding. In a world that often feels divided and disconnected, the right song can bridge gaps and bring people together. It can challenge perceptions, spark conversations, and foster a sense of community. By sharing experiences and perspectives in this creative space, I hope to encourage others to reflect on their own lives and discover their creative powers.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist is witnessing the impact my work can have on others. When someone tells me that a song I wrote helped them through a tough time or that a piece of art I created inspired them to pursue their own creative passions, it reaffirms the importance of what I do. Art has a unique ability to touch hearts and minds, provide comfort and hope, and motivate people to take action in their own lives and communities.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Buy the art directly from the artist. Remove the middlemen and support creatives directly.

In today’s music climate, buying music directly from the artist has become increasingly important. With the rise of streaming services dominating how people consume music, direct purchases offer significant benefits both to the artists and to the fans who support them.

One of the primary reasons buying music directly from the artist is crucial is the financial impact. Streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and others pay artists a fraction of a cent per stream, which makes it difficult for musicians, especially independent ones, to earn a sustainable income from streaming alone. When fans purchase music directly—whether it’s through platforms like Bandcamp, artist websites, or live shows—the artist receives a much larger share of the revenue. This direct support can be a lifeline, helping them to fund future projects, cover living expenses, and continue creating music.

So buy the art from the artist.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://bka.massa