By: Kat Harlton
https://unjefferson.com
Via press release:
Based out of Toronto, U.N. Jefferson fuses the elements of Soul with the fundamentals of Motown and early R&B to create a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Rooted in the vintage sounds of James Brown, The Temptations, and Wilson Pickett the band manages to keep one foot in the foundation of traditional Soul while cultivating an authentic take on a classic genre.
Fronted by singer-songwriter Ajay Massey, U.N. Jefferson’s dynamic live performance delivers a high degree of energy and showmanship. The band’s big sound and Massey’s fervor for entertaining the crowd knows no bounds. Audiences are compelled to move and standing still is not an option.
Their latest album was produced by Jacksoul guitarist Justin Abedin. It offers a collection of soulful tracks that capture the spirit of the band and the intensity of their live show.
We had the opportunity to catch up with Ajay Massey from U.N Jefferson and talk musical inspiration, songwriting and what’s next.
Kat: Could you talk about the inspiration behind your new debut album?
Ajay: I wanted to make an album that people could feel. I also wanted an album that would make people move.
Kat: Could you talk about your songwriting process? How does a song start for you?
Ajay: Every song is different. Sometimes it starts with the beat, and other times it starts with a chord progression, a bass line or a vocal melody idea. For the most part the music comes before the vocal melodies and lyrics.
Kat: Who would you say are your musical influences or role models? How have they inspired or shaped your sound?
Ajay: The band is heavily influenced by the sounds of Motown and classic Soul artists like James Brown and Wilson Pickett. Our sound draws from all that the Soul genre has to offer, from early R&B and funk to elements of jazz and gospel.
Kat: Have you ever been given any career advice that has left a lasting impact?
Ajay: The 6 rules of Arnold Schwarzenegger. For real. But also, work hard and don’t settle has been a lifelong motto.
Kat: What’s next?
Ajay: Play shows, make people move and spread the word.
Don’t miss U.N Jefferson’s album release at Toronto’s Supermarket, November 23: https://www.facebook.com/events/445450095979137