Interview with Pete Devine of Pete’s Rock News and Views – South African Rocker Jackson Colt
PD: How would you describe yourself as an artist?
A: I have been told that I am an old soul. It’s the biggest compliment. Raised on Rock n’ Roll, I have based my whole artistic identity on the music that I love. Classic rock is a very big part of who I am as a musician, as well as a person.
PD: Can you tell us briefly about your background – i.e. where you’re from, how you came to make music, etc.
A: I am born and raised in Johannesburg. Growing up, my family would play Rock n’ Roll music in the house. Everything from Elvis to AC/DC. I got so obsessed with the sound of the guitar that I asked my parents to buy me one when I was about eight years old. It was a beat up, third hand Behringer Strat from a thrift store. I fell in love with the guitar and when I picked it up, I never put it down.
PD: Who and what inspires you to make music, both in terms of musical and other influences? What do you like to write about in your songs?
A: My music is very inspired by classic rock. Bands from the 70s and 80s have been huge inspirations on my writing. I try to write in terms of the music I grew up hearing in the house but with a bit of a modern twist. Lyrically I will write about what I have to say. Whether it’s a song that I want others to hear a certain message, or a song that I might write for myself to help me through a certain part of my life.
PD: What are your aspirations as an artist?
A: I would just love to make music that I am proud of. Something that I could hear my parents playing in the house when I was young. Music is my whole life, so as long as I am doing any form of it, I will be busy living.
PD: What is the proudest moment in your music career so far?
A: There are actually three moments. Reaching the number one spot on the Mix FM SA Top40 charts with our song “Echoes” was an unreal moment. Playing legendary South African radio presenter Darren Scott’s farewell show was by far the proudest show I’ve had the privilege to play. Having the chance to work with a very big inspiration of mine: Dale Schnettler. The first live show I ever attended was one of his shows. Having the chance to work with him over a decade later has been absolutely incredible.
PD: Promoting one’s music is such a challenge these days, especially with so many new artists emerging from bedrooms
in the day of the home studio. How is that going?
A: Without David “Devo” Oosthuizen I would be completely lost. Like you said, there are so many artists nowadays that finding your space is difficult. Devographic Music Agency has been tremendously important in helping me get my music out there.
PD: And how do you book and promote your live shows and tours? Any performances coming up?
A: Everything is on our Facebook page and socials. There is an email where events can book the band. Having a good network within the scene is also vital. We currently have three shows coming up at Rusty Hook on March 11th, Bailey’s on March the 18th and Radium Beerhall on April the 22nd.
PD: What do you think about downloading music online? What about streaming sites like Spotify?
A: As long as the music downloaded has been purchased correctly. I am a fan of Spotify and other streaming platforms. I believe it’s a great tool to have your music heard all around the world. However, I do miss physical albums. I still have plenty of my parents’ vinyl records and my CDs from my years growing up.
PD: What song do you wish you’d written and why?
A: Panama by Van Halen. Eddie Van Halen is my biggest influence on the Guitar. Panama is an incredible display of what a true master can do.
PD: Is there anything you don’t like about the music industry, which you would change if you could?
A: During pandemic, the lockdowns left a lot of musicians without jobs. If something like that were to ever happen again,
I would hope for a change that could help people survive.
PD: So, what are you working on at the moment?
A: Our next single “Strangers” will be released on the 24th of March. The song can be pre-saved from our social media. Also, there’s a full-length album in the works. All of the music is completed for the 14 songs, it’s just the vocals left to do. Our debut album will be released in the second half of this year.
PD: Where can we learn more about you and buy your music/merch online?
All Links https://linktr.ee/jacksoncoltrock
Faceook https://www.facebook.com/JacksonColtRock
Instagram https://instagram.com/jacksoncoltrock
Bandcamp https://jacksoncolt.bandcamp.com
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@jacksoncoltrock
Jackson Colt links:
Band/Artist location – South Africa
Facebook – You Tube – Bandcamp – Instagram –
Apple – Spotify – Amazon – Deezer – LinkTree – TikTok –
Check our page for Jackson Colt
