We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Joseph Reese a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Joseph, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
I’ve always been surrounded by creativity, whether it was music playing in the house or moments where I could lose myself in discovering new songs, writing, or singing. But the moment I truly knew I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally was during grade school. That was when I began to explore music in a more academic way, learning its foundations and realizing its depth. Being exposed to individuals who had built their lives around music sparked something in me—it showed me that this passion could be more than just a hobby; it could be a career.
That realization became even more solidified in college when I immersed myself in the vibrant opportunities that Austin—The Live Music Capital—offered. Being in a city so alive with creativity gave me the space to grow, collaborate, and perform. It was there that I realized not only that this was something I truly wanted to do, but that it was well within my power to make it happen. That blend of passion and possibility set me on the path I’m on today.
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.
My name is J Reese, and I’m a vocalist, musician, and bandleader based in Austin, Texas. Music has been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember – roughly 20 years. After earning my degree in Music Education from Huston-Tillotson University in 2016, I fully immersed myself in the vibrant Austin music scene. I’ve had the honor of performing as a background vocalist for incredible artists like Diana Ross and Jelly Roll in one-off experiences, and I lead my own band, J Reese Collective. We provide live entertainment for private events, public performances, and corporate gatherings, delivering a blend of R&B, jazz, neo-soul, and Motown. Our goal is to bring a nostalgic yet modern vibe that resonates with every audience we perform for.
I consider my greatest accomplishment to be releasing my original music/collaborations, ‘Midnight’ (2020), ‘Soul Food’ (2024), and ‘Reason’ (2024). These songs/collaborations capture everything I love about music—storytelling, creating a feel-good energy, and a soulful blend of influences to connect with people on an emotional level. Moments in time like this make me proud of the work I’ve put into my craft and the connections I’ve built through music.
What sets me apart as an artist is my ability to adapt and connect with different audiences. Whether performing at an intimate gathering or on a larger stage, I approach every show with the intention of creating an experience that people will remember. I’m also deeply committed to authenticity in my music. Every song, every performance, every project is rooted in my drive for originality. Its not for the fame or the accolades, its a passion for creating something meaningful.
For potential clients, followers, or fans, I’d want them to know that my music is about more than just sound—it’s about connection, it’s about originality, and longevity within the message it delivers. My brand is built on the idea of creating experiences that leave people feeling inspired, energized, and moved. Whether you’re hearing me perform live or listening to one of my songs, my hope is that my work resonates with you on a deeper level.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
In my view, the best way society can support artists and creatives is by prioritizing local talent. It starts with showing up—attending events, buying tickets, and sharing the work of creatives in your own community. When you hire local talent for your events, projects, or collaborations, you not only invest in their growth but also strengthen the creative ecosystem as a whole.
Another key aspect is finding value in what local creatives bring to the table. Too often, people overlook the incredible talent right in front of them, believing that success only comes from being on a ‘Reality Singing Show’ or having a massive online following. We need to move away from that mindset and recognize that meaningful art and connection are often born from the communities we live in.
Society also needs to break down barriers that make it difficult for creatives to thrive. This includes ending the gatekeeping of resources and opportunities, as well as rethinking outdated expectations that force artists to overwork themselves just to prove they’re worthy of performing in certain spaces. EQUATABLE opportunities for musicians to apply and receive funding, grants, and support for their art. Supporting artists means creating pathways for collaboration, connection, and access—not forcing them to jump through hoops just to be seen or supported.
Lastly, becoming part of a creative’s community is one of the most impactful things anyone can do. Engage with artists, share their work, and help amplify their voices. When we foster a culture that genuinely values and invests in its local creatives, we build an environment where art, creativity, and connection can truly thrive.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
One thing I think non-creatives or observers of our art often struggle to understand about the journey of a true musician/artist is how much time, energy, and preparation goes into what we do. People see the final performance—a polished set, a seamless show—but they don’t see the countless hours spent rehearsing, studying, and refining every detail. Talent alone doesn’t carry you; hard work will always outpace talent. It’s the dedication to constant improvement, learning, and adapting that allows musicians to grow and succeed.
What people might not realize is that every performance is the result of an intricate process. It starts with preparation—choosing the right material, rehearsing with bandmates, and working to ensure the sound, timing, and flow are just right. Beyond that, there’s a deep emotional investment. Music isn’t just technical; it’s personal. Every song, every note, carries a piece of the artist’s experience and perspective. That emotional labor is as significant as the physical work of performing.
On top of that, musicians often wear many hats. We’re not just artists; we’re entrepreneurs, marketers, and managers of our own careers. Balancing all these roles while continuing to create and connect with audiences requires a level of commitment that isn’t always visible to others.
What I hope people take away is that music isn’t just about what happens on stage—it’s about everything that happens behind the scenes to make those moments possible. Supporting musicians means valuing the unseen effort, the resilience, and the passion that goes into every performance and every song.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jreesecollective/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCreg5qcN9PjTVmItz5DwF3w
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/musical_reese/
Image Credits
@photohousefilms