We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kyle Jordan a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kyle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your career and how did you resolve those issues?

Life took a dramatic turn when I was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumor. Battling a pituitary adenoma and undergoing emergency neurosurgery, profoundly influenced my music. This forced me to pause playing music for a few years but ultimately brought me back to the industry in a new way. I had always been a drummer for hire, forming my own bands and positioning myself behind the kit. I never sought the spotlight, but music was an integral part of who I was—and still am.

When I got sick, I was too weak to play the drums. It was devastating. To keep music in my life, my wife would place a guitar in my lap for 5 to 15 minutes a day, and I would attempt to strum, despite the pain. This marked the beginning of a new journey as an artist in my own right. Drawing inspiration from visionaries like The Alan Parsons Project and modern artists like DJ Khaled, I channeled my renewed passion for music into this project where I acted as both Musician and A & R.

​Now, as I recover from brain surgery, I can play the drums for long periods and write several songs each week. I’m focused on building a heavy online following during this time of healing. We’ve also recently signed with Sodeh Records and are excited about the upcoming opportunities.

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.

Music has been a fundamental part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in a small farming community west of Rimbey, Alberta, Canada, I was immersed in music from an early age. My mom was a gospel singer with a couple of Christian radio hits, so our home was always filled with musicians and musical instruments. My dad was incredibly supportive too, always encouraging my musical pursuits and buying me various drums.

At 11, I started playing the drums, and it quickly became a serious pursuit. I played with various groups until I was 19, then started a band named For the Cause. We enjoyed some radio play and were even nominated for three music awards. I had the opportunity to tour and play drums for notable artists like Matt Brouwer, Kemper Crabb of Kings X and Caedmon’s Call, and Joanne Cash, Johnny Cash’s sister. We even recorded an album with Ron “Obvious” Vermuelen, known for his work with Bryan Adams and Colin James.

Life took a dramatic turn with a life-threatening brain tumor, which forced me to pause playing music for a bit. During this difficult period, I felt like a piece of my soul was missing. Music, quite literally, saved my life. When I nearly died, I reevaluated some things and realized it would be foolish not to open myself up again.

My music is narrative-driven, blending genres such as Modern Rock, Americana, Canadiana, folk, rock, blues, and alt-country. I draw inspiration from a diverse array of influences, from the timeless classics of Led Zeppelin and Janis Joplin to contemporary sensations like Sabrina Carpenter, Imagine Dragons, and Hozier. My sound is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, rooted in my upbringing and nurtured by my early experiences.

One of the unique aspects of The Kyle Jordan Project is our emphasis on collaboration. Core members like Greg Van Kerkhof and Erick Gerber contribute to the depth and richness of our music. I hold multiple roles including Group Leader, Songwriter, Producer, Drummer, as well as occasional Lead and Rhythm Guitarist, and occasionally Vocalist. Greg acts as songwriter, producer, bassist, rhythm guitarist, organist, and lead vocalist. He contributes a wealth of musical versatility and a spirit of collaboration to the project. Erick is also a multifaceted musician, known for his roles as a songwriter, producer, lead and rhythm guitarist, and electronic music programmer, with occasional stints as a vocalist. His artistic input brings a unique depth and innovation to the project’s sound. The collaborative nature of the group involves a rotating cast of guest musicians and vocalists, ensuring fresh and varied music. Notable contributors include Leeroy Stagger, Katie Burke, Ryland Moranz, Tyler Lieb, Lucas Renshaw, and Josué García García. It is because of this that we compare the project to The Alan Parsons Project and DJ Kahled.

My journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. Within 12 days of releasing our first song, we were featured in numerous online blogs and magazines, added to many playlists, played on several radio stations, and contacted by a few record labels. We eventually found a home at Sodeh Records.

For anyone following my journey, I want you to know that my music is a reflection of my journey, filled with passion, resilience, and a commitment to genuine artistry. I’m most proud of how my music resonates with listeners, providing a sense of connection and shared experience. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me and my work. Your support means the world to me, and I look forward to sharing more of my musical journey with you.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Society can best support artists like me by providing financial assistance, accessible platforms, and promoting arts education. When I was first diagnosed with a brain tumor, the financial burden made it challenging to focus on my music. Grants, scholarships, and financial support from various entities can alleviate these pressures, allowing artists to devote themselves fully to their craft. Additionally, having accessible platforms, both online and offline, such as playing local galleries, bars, community events, and selling our merchandise on online marketplaces, can help artists like me reach a broader audience and gain recognition. Arts education is also crucial; integrating it into school curricula and offering extracurricular programs can inspire and nurture young talent, ensuring the next generation of artists is well-supported.

Encouraging collaboration and community, supporting mental health, and advocating for fair compensation are also vital. My journey has shown me the power of collaboration—working with talented musicians worldwide has enriched my music and opened new creative avenues. Providing mental health support, such as counseling and wellness programs, is essential for managing the emotional demands of the creative process. Fair compensation through transparent contracts and intellectual property rights is crucial for sustaining an artistic career. Promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity, and engaging the public through art projects and festivals, can build a society that values and supports artistic endeavors, creating a vibrant and dynamic cultural ecosystem where artists can thrive.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One lesson I had to unlearn was the idea that stepping into the spotlight wasn’t for me. For much of my early career, I was comfortable being the drummer for hire, forming my own bands but always staying behind the kit. I never sought the spotlight; I felt my role was to support rather than lead. This belief was deeply ingrained in me, partly due to my upbringing and the environments I was part of, such as playing drums in church.

This mindset isn’t unique to me; many artists and creatives struggle with the idea of stepping into the spotlight. It can stem from a fear of vulnerability, a desire to avoid criticism, that they are not good enough, too old, too young, or a belief that their contributions are best made behind the scenes. However, unlearning this lesson is crucial for growth. Embracing the spotlight allows artists to fully express their creativity, share their unique perspectives, and connect more deeply with their audience. It also enables them to inspire others and create a greater impact with their work. By stepping into the spotlight, artists can break free from self-imposed limitations and discover new opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kylejordanproject.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylejordanproject/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552559876251
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBmlMB1GqLIxZ0kSDFgSPjQ
• Other: Spotify: https://artists.spotify.com/c/artist/5nJWHzgZP6AmEVCbxaDa5p/profile/overview