Artist Interview: Jae Cabrera
Interview By: Emma Lum
Jae Cabrera is a first-generation Filipino-American singer/songwriter who infuses both R&B with Pop music and creates songs that reflect many artistic forms. Soulful and energetic are only a few words to describe the style of Jae Cabrera’s music. A veteran to the music industry, Jae’s music not only reflects today’s trendy sounds, it keeps his listeners wanting more, and that’s what keeps Jae motivated and excited about writing music that his fans can enjoy. Jae is also the Creator/Host of a weekly Instagram livestream series highlighting independent artists and creatives, “Friday Night Hour w/Jae” (currently in its 3rd year) and launched his daily internet radio show “Indie Vibin’ w/Jae” this year.
AADN:
What inspired you to pursue music and become a singer/ songwriter?
Jae:
I was exposed to music from a very young age. Watching Michael Jackson perform Billie Jean on Motown 25 was the spark that lit up the creative/performer side of me. I didn’t start to develop the urge to write until late middle school and continued throughout high school.
AADN:
The genre of music you write is very unique, what sparked the idea to infuse R&B with Pop music?
Jae:
I was influenced by the Pop, R&B and Hip-Hop music of the 80s & 90s. It just made sense for me once I started to get more serious about being an artist and creative. I have to give a lot of credit to my long-time mentors and collaborators, Angelo “Doc” Velasquez and Patrick Kelly at Invite Only Studios in NYC. They really helped shape my sound.
AADN:
How has your background influenced the music you make?
Jae:
Growing up as a first generation Filipino-American in Queens, NY in the 80s/90s, R&B, Pop and Hip-Hop music were some of my favorites. Being able to experience that time in music was amazing, and I can definitely say that it totally had an influence on the type of music I make.
AADN:
What does music mean to you?
Jae:
Music is powerful. It’s a universal language that has the ability to make you feel all different types of emotions. Music has the power to transport you back into the past or into the future in your mind.
AADN:
With your Instagram lives every week, you are constantly in connection with your fans and feature other artists. Why is this connection so important to you?
Jae:
I do what I do because I love it! Having the opportunity to connect with fellow artists and fans week after week, is such a blessing. Seeing them enjoy the vibes and connections is really a joy. This connection is important to me because without it, I would never have had the chance to meet and continue to meet so many amazing people. Also, the opportunity to possibly create and collaborate with these other artists in the future is exciting!
AADN:
Are you working on any future projects, performances or showcases in the future?
Jae:
Well, I have my Instagram livestream series, “Friday Night Hour w/Jae” (12am EST/9pm PST) which is currently 118 weeks deep. I also host my daily internet radio show, “Indie Vibin’ w/Jae” which airs from 12-2am EST/9-11pm PST on indie1015.com & jamz953fm.com. Those keep me fairly busy! LOL. I do have some more music to release, as well as continuing to write and create for future songs. So stay tuned!
Editor: Ezel Urul
