We recently connected with Juan “jay Cali” Calixto and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Juan “Jay Cali”, thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
First of all, I’d like to send my sincerest heartfelt sympathies to the Los Angeles community and surrounding areas. My heart truly breaks for everyone right now. I think it’s important in times like these to continue to be there for your neighbor and lead with compassion. There are so many unsung heroes who’ve stepped up and I hope they get their flowers.
I think the earliest memories I have would be me watching VHS tapes of Michael Jackson Concerts as a kid. That was my first real glimpse of a “complete show”. The art of performing seemed so magical to me, between the band, the production and the crowd fully immersed. I knew I too wanted to perform and entertain others. Those feelings have resonated with me and have sustained me over the years.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
So, I am Drummer first and foremost, that’s what the majority of people who may be familiar with me associate me with. I got my start on the drums at 11 years old in Rochester, NY. At the Age of 14 I auditioned for a new band that was forming, that would later be called
“A Thousand Shades of Cold. This is the band I grew with, learned the business with, honed my craft with; creating the foundation to my roots and identity as a player.
I’ve played with a bunch of bands and artists in my time as I ventured down the “Session Player” route.
I am currently the Live Drummer for Synthwave Artist “Timecop1983” and Indie Rock band “All Them Squares”. The “Timecop1983” camp is gearing up to hit the road in March for our ‘ On The Run’ tour ft. Josh Dally with support from another Synthwave Powerhouse “Droid Bishop”. We will be ending our Tour in L.A. March 22nd at “The EchoPlex”.
I think through hard work and dedication I’ve been able to build a reputation as a drummer who is reliable, professional, easy to work with. As a client, you know what to expect when working with me. I pride myself on my attention to detail and delivering the best product I can when being hired for a studio session or tour. I always bring a bit of my identity along with me and try to leave a positive lasting impression. I also make that the goal with friendships and interactions with fans.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me it’s the freedom. Everything I do on a personal level starts with me, for me. As artists, often some of our best work comes from the most vulnerable places in our mind and hearts. Once the Music is ready for the world to hear, there is no greater feeling than sharing it with people who appreciate it. The goal is to always to make the listener feel something.
From a performing standpoint, there is no greater adrenaline rush than stepping onto a stage where there’s an audience eagerly waiting for you. I love taking the time to chat with anyone who supports us and has traveled to see us. I think it’s such an important part of being an artist. face to face connections will always win.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
This one is simple. As much as this journey is for me. It is also for My late Grandparents, Carmen and John Martinez. It is for everyone Who has ever fed me, housed me, believed in me, gave me a word of encouragement etc. I just want to make those people proud. I want to be a shining example of resilience and never giving up: That if you work hard and never give up on yourself, anything is possible.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/Jaycalidrums
- Other: http://www.instagram.com/iamtimecop1983
http://www.instagram.com/allthemsquares
Image Credits
Image 3, 5 and 6 – Emma Jaye