Jyrice “Again” Interview Michael Stover

1. You were born and raised in Jacksonville, FL. How do you think that area influences you and your music?

When I think about Jacksonville, FL, the awe moments I experienced my first time attending the Jacksonville Jazz Festival and going to the Jacksonville Landing, I heard so many great talents of different genres perform. I often go back in my mind and think about all of the other great musical experiences I've had from my Head-Start, listening to music all day and singing. These actions led to the shy version of myself singing at my Head Start graduation ceremony. My elementary school allowed my class to sing on the radio, and my teacher chose me to sing lead. Like many people, I thought I was in love in middle school, and I wrote my first love song. In high school, I was singing in the Ribault Trojan Gospel Chorus under Dr. Eugene White's excellent leadership. While all of those experiences mean a great deal to me, I would say it was my mother's love and eclectic taste for music that ultimately ignited the fire. She would blast some of the greatest hits daily and line my four brothers and me up like the Jackson 5 and have us sing – I miss those days!

2. Tell us about some of the singing competitions that you performed at over the years?

While I do note competitive singing as a milestone in my life, I often look at it as just that a great way to meet other great talents. Before social media and the video phone age, local school competitions were the best ways to showcase your talent and be seen. I believe the last contest I was in was for the Mister Jean Ribault Highschool competition. I even tried out for American Idol in 2008, which was an incredible experience for me. Even though, at the time, the show centered around exposure for the individuals with minor talent levels for comedic relief over those who have mastered their craft, it was still one of those unforgettable experiences. Thousands of us camped out at the break of dawn, waiting to enter the stadium for our chance to sing in front of the first set of judges.

3. What led you to join the Navy? What was your military experience like? How did it influence you as a musician?

While in high school, I was part of the U.S. Marine Corps. Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program, and while at the time I saw it as a fun experience, and that's it, I didn't plan to join any of the military branches after highschool. However, in 2007 I felt that I wasn't doing anything that set me apart from the people in my circle, and I craved to be part of something much bigger. I was working two jobs being a certified Pharmacy Tech by day and a Night Auditor by night. It felt draining at times, giving all my time to two jobs that didn't do much to help me meet any of my music goals but provide minor financial support to procure home recording equipment.

The military offered me what I note to be once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I will cherish for the rest of my life. It provided me mentorship, cultural diversity, travel, security, new skillsets, and the opportunity to meet some beautiful, spirited people I call family. Amongst the people that I met are talented musicians, singers, and songwriters just like myself. As a Navy Veteran with eight years under my belt, I'm often asked why you didn't stay in the military and retire? In response, I felt that I gave all that I could give to that particular part of my life. I am grateful for the opportunities presented to me to serve my country; however, my passion has always been music. My goal has always been to play a significant part within the music industry and help other artists find their platform to give them a place for their voices to be shared. Some talented artists currently serve and have served in the military, and I think of them often and how reaching my goal would be beneficial for so many other talented artists. I will forever be grateful for my Navy family and inspired by the resilience displayed by those veterans who serve/served and still listen to the music in their hearts and minds.

4. Tell us about your most popular track to date, "Again." What is it about? What is the inspiration behind it? Why do you think it's been your most popular?

The song title "Again" was written to express the hurt and loneliness felt from an unhealthy relationship. Often you hear people say, "Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt me," well, yes, that is a good thing to say to help boost your self-esteem; however, realistically, words can knock you down and have you hurting on the ground. I just thought about how it feels to be lied to again and again by someone you love, and to be honest; it doesn't feel good at all, it's like a knife to the chest. I believe the "Again" song is the most popular song I've written to date because many people feel honestly felt. We all have felt hurt, and this song is truly a song of acknowledgment, which is the first step in the healing process.

5. How has the Covid Pandemic affected you on a personal level and as a songwriter?

Indeed, the pandemic has done its share of damage, yet we still must continue to press forward and be strong in times of grievances. We must be resilient people and learn to adapt and flourish even after the disaster, just as the earth itself does. After a volcanic eruption or other catastrophic events, the land is perceived to be ruined, and the air is polluted; however, in time, the grass and trees will grow again. Gratitude starts with the acknowledgment of opportunity, the opportunity to live and see another day. Gratitude is something we all must have to survive and make it to see another day. This is the optimism in my mind speaking; I have to say that acknowledging the limitations presented has also allowed me to focus more on the things that I can do as an artist, which of course, is to write and create more music and reach my audience with empathy and gratitude. I also hope that my content presents itself in the way of inspiration and allows those individuals who are having a bad day to find a reason to smile and not give up on themselves. Depression and suicide awareness is something that I feel strongly about because they are also the silent killers in tough times like these. If you require help or know someone in need of help, please do not hesitate to contact the 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, Http://suicidepreemtionlifeline.org.

6. What's next for Jyrice? Any new music coming out?

As an artist, I want to be known for making authentic music and music that reaches the ears and hearts of millions as organically as possible. I believe the Jyrice name and brand will someday become a household name that celebrates artistry that extends past the limits of just music. I claim to be a creator, and with that title, the possibilities are endless and often extends beyond what many imagine to be possible. For a great experience into my life and the making of music, or as I call it magic, the audience of fans/supporters will just have to make sure they are following me on social media to see what's next along this journey – tickets are free to ride this rollercoaster at my smart-link: https://linktr.ee/Jyrice.

7. If you weren't a musician today, what would you be doing professionally?

I've thought about this question so often, and in my head, the same answer repeats itself. I would still be pushing myself to be a part of the entertainment industry and using all my available resources to help as many talented individuals make their dreams become a reality. Often so many people only associate success within the music industry with major label deals. Success is conditional and contingent on the individual's goal and their willingness to pursue it. I would still claim to be a creator, even if that means that I'm a creator of opportunity for others.

As always, I'm Jyrice, and you're forever listening to the music in my head!