Check out our interview below & get to know Amy Jack!
How did you get your start in music?
I grew up with a passion for music. My mother was a music teacher and we were always playing the piano or listening to the radio growing up. I was involved in music lessons and choirs all throughout my childhood and even into college. But I never considered becoming an artist until I connected with Dwayne Hitchings and he asked me if I was interested in trying a writing session with him. I had only written a couple of songs at the time, so this was a huge milestone for me and where I discovered my love for writing and performing.
What was the inspiration behind your debut album Introducing Amy Jack?
I would say that Merle Haggard was a huge inspiration behind my album. When recording, it was so clear that Merle was ahead of his time. He was a perfectionist in everything that he did and I learned so much about writing and performing through him. He was always so encouraging and always gave incredible advice that made a lasting impression on my album.
What was your experience working with Merle Haggard?
I was blown away when Merle’s sound technician called me and asked me if I was interested in recording an album with Merle and his team. I learned a great deal from Merle while recording the album. He was always so encouraging and spoke genius words of advice. His suggestions made a significant impact on my album.
Who are your biggest musical inspirations?
Willie Nelson, Barbara Streisand, Elvis Presley and Reba are some of the most influential artists that are showcased in my music.
Name one personal and one professional bucket list item.
I would love to have more humility and graciousness. I am a people person, so building and strengthening those relationships is incredibly meaningful to me. To be there for those people and acknowledge those people is of huge importance to me. Professionally, I want to continue to write and record more music. I have learned so much from friends and mentors from my debut album, and I look forward to learning more through experience and through others.
What was the writing process like when you penned your album.
It was truly incredible, the writers and musicians involved made the process smooth sailing. Dewayne Hitchings (Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Rod Stweart) and Don Goodman (Blake Shelton, Alabama, Lee Greenwood) were on the team. I would usually come in with an idea for a song and maybe a chorus or a couple of lyrics, and they would just take it and run. It was crazy how creative their minds were, and they really inspired me to become a better writer.
How are you staying positive during quarantine?
Initially, it was a pretty big adjustment, as I’m sure it was for everyone. During quarantine, I have had the opportunity to write more music. My goal for every day is to find happiness in the small things. I have been spending a lot of time outside and have drawn a lot of inspiration from encouraging messages that friends and family have sent me. I am so thankful for the medical professionals that continue to give their all for the health and well-being of others and am praying for those who have been impacted by the virus. We will all get through this together, and I am so excited for the future, I know that there are great things to come.
What can fans look forward to for the remainder of 2020.
I’m excited to hit the road and go on tour when the timing is appropriate. I have been looking forward to my tour ever since I released my album, and I’m so excited to share my message and my music with everyone.
Keep up with Amy on her socials!
[ photo courtesy of Amy Jack ]About The Author
