We chat to Polish singer-songwriter J.Wise about his new single Tears, influences and getting you into his performances.
Interview by Jane Howkins
How is 2020 treating you so far?
To be honest, it is no different than in 2019 so far. I work, eat, drink, sleep, love and am being grateful that I woke up each day, trying to extend the circle of life as much as possible. 2020 is just a number.
Please tell us about your recent release.
Tears is a note to a lover, an existential song about fighting one’s own weaknesses and a call for self-acceptance and empathy, concentrating on close and sometimes painful self-examination. It remains hopeful and coveys a willingness to live and take on life’s new challenges.
Are you working on any other new music at the moment, and if so, when will it be released?
I am constantly working on music, and that will probably never end. Creating music is a part of my my existence. As for now, the whole album is ready and waiting for the right moment to be released but, before that happens, there are still two singles to be presented. The second one will be out at the end of February, and it’s my favourite track because it is the first song I made for this album, which gave the beginning of my upcoming album Stories.
Have you got any upcoming shows planned? If so, where are you playing and where are you looking forward to going most?
At this point, I am getting ready to perform live, gathering the opportunities, and considering the best options.
Who/what has influenced you the most as musicians?
My, my, hey, hey, I do not know where to start. Whatever the answer will be, it will be unfair to some, because there are so many artists that many will probably slip my mind. I decided that I will give you 20 names because, otherwise, this interview will be a half-hour read.
Here it goes: Bill Withers; Bob Dylan; America; The Animals; Sixto Rodriguez; Neil Young; Nina Simone; Elvis Presley; The Beatles; Nick Cave; David Bowie; Queen; Fleetwood Mac; Tom Petty, Patti Smith; Nirvana; Jimi Hendrix; Elton John; Blondie; Led Zeppelin.
What have you been listening to recently that you can recommend to our readers?
All of the above! There are also many artists from different generations that are great. Here are some names: Leon Bridges (album Coming Home is one of my favourites of all time); Florence and The Machine; Michael Kiwanuka; Tracy Chapman; Jack White (also White Stripes); Gary Clark Jr; Kaleo; Rival Sons; Hozier; Yelawolf; Wu-Tang Clan; The Game.
Why do you think people should pick up one of your records or come and see you live, and what can people expect from one of your shows?
My music is based on emotions, I think that this the most important factor in my music, or any music. If something is made straight out of “heart”, it is real. It is something that we all know. It is a part of us, all of us, so listening to my music or watching the performance, makes you part of the whole process, because at some point this music becomes your life too. I am writing my songs based on my feelings, and based on yours as well.
Any last words for the fans?
Be good to yourself. Don’t give up. Tomorrow is a new day. Remember, the only things that matter is love, health, and love. You don’t have to be perfect; you just need to be you. That’s enough.