DECEMBER 2022- DALLAS, TEXAS– Johnathon Lavigne-Reese, also known as JLR, is a musical artist and producer from Greenville, Texas. JLR has goals that are definitely worth hearing about. “Over the past year I’ve really been getting into different styles of music. And while my heart will always belong to rock music, I’ve been having a lot of fun making hip hop beats lately. My upcoming releases for 2023 are going to be more rap based sounds. I love trying new things and I hope everyone vibes with it as much as I have been.” JLR has been making a solid base in his city and has great intentions in mind with his work. Seen at shows in Dallas this year specifically, he makes a difference in the business with his music skills.
Known as passionate, relatable and genuine, JLR comes from humble beginnings and has strong passions for his upcoming work. “At the end of the day, I’m just an artist. I think that’s all it boils down to. As an artist I wake up everyday wanting to create, and I’m lucky enough to have the opportunity to do so. I’m a quick learner and have always been dedicated to music. There’s always something new I can learn or do, and that’s inspiration enough.”
Give three qualities that describe you:
- I’d say one of my best qualities would be my drive and passion for music. I’m a self-produced artist, from lyrics to instrumentals, right down to the mastering. I just really enjoy the process of creating these new sounds from start to finish, and I like to think that shows in my songs.
- Secondly I try to be relatable and genuine in everything I do and write. Music is really a form of expression and I want others to know that they’re heard just as much as I want to be heard myself. I really try to make music for everyone, which is probably the best way to describe my work. While many listen to my lyrics and get topical meanings from it, there’s typically a deeper question being asked such as “who are you” or “why do you believe what you believe?” And there’s never one correct answer. The point is to look with in and know yourself, to stay grounded.
How have you overcome struggles to be where you are at now?
Everyone has to battle their own demons at some point. My story is no different. I still struggle with depression and anxiety at times, but I’ve come a far way and continue to push forward everyday.
What do you have coming up right now that you want others to know about?
2022 was a great year and gave me a lot to take away from it. This upcoming year I plan to do a lot more. I’m actually super excited to announce the release of my first single of the year, coming January 1st, 2023 and it’s name drop coming soon on my socials! After that I have a few other projects in the works already that I can’t wait to share.
Even though JLR is devoted to perfecting the art of his craft to the highest level, his hardships have made him want to do even better in his business as well. “We’ve definitely hit a lot of bumps in the road while trying to find a permanent location for my business. Turns out there’s not too many towns in northeast Texas that would be thrilled to have another art studio. When it comes to my music the struggles are similar. Rock music will always be my true passion in music and unfortunately there’s not much of an audience for it around here. That’s just part of the life though I guess, having to find that balance between what you want to create and what the people want.” JLR is now focused on continuing to be the best in his city, so that he can build on his already strong foundation even more than it already is with his music.
JLR mentions within the interview that certain individuals in his life have inspired him to be great, starting from his own family. “I credit a lot of my success to two people from my life: Kathleen Smith and Denis Strickland. Without their guidance and encouragement I may never have become the person and artist I am now. I miss them, I think of there lessons everyday.”
As a result of the COVID-19 epidemic, a lot of big-crowd events, like concerts and festivals, were banned in 2021. This was because of restrictions put in place by both the city and the federal government. As a result, the number of chances for artists to show off their skills has been dramatically cut down. However, JLR remains steadfast through it all and ends with a piece of motivation he can have others take back. “I really try to make my music thought provoking. My message is simply, ‘Stay Grounded.’ No matter what you believe or where you come from or who you are, find yourself and stay grounded.”
Public Relations Agency, #Focuseddd, highlights the skills and motivations of people who have a good reason for what they do, like JLR
Tags/Contacts of people who were talked about:
- Instagram: @jlrmusicandproductions
- TikTok: @jlrmusic_productions
- Facebook page: JLR Music & Productions
- @Focuseddd_
