Exploring New Horizons: An Interview with Jaco Jaco
After making waves as a member of the indie-pop band Sports, Jaco Jaco (formerly known simply as Jaco) has stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist, forging a path that blends introspection, groove, and creative freedom. In this exclusive interview, we delve into how his move from Tulsa to Philadelphia has shaped not only his outlook on life but also his music. With a penchant for Brazilian jazz-funk, Jaco’s latest single, “Favorite Kind of People,” highlights his evolving sound—a lush and rhythmically vibrant exploration that feels both playful and personal.
Jaco’s creative journey extends beyond music, incorporating visual artistry that reflects the themes of his work. As he prepares to release a new project in Spring 2025, we catch up with him to talk about his transition from Sports to solo work, the challenges and rewards of relocating, and his approach to staying present in the creative process. Join us as Jaco gives a candid glimpse into his evolving artistry and what fans can expect from his upcoming releases.
1. How did the transition from being part of Sports to pursuing your solo career as Jaco influence your approach to music and creativity?
It really just allowed me a little more freedom to explore ideas without worrying about whether something would work for the band. It also forced me to hunker down and get better at writing and recording.
2. How has relocating from Tulsa to Philadelphia shaped your sound and artistic direction compared to your time with Sports?
Philly is beautiful. You get what you give here. It’s rough at times and will challenge you in a lot of ways mentally, but it’s unapologetically human, and the real ones here are the realest. It’s humbling—very few are putting on a front. Hard to say if it’s shaped my sound, but it’s definitely influenced me lyrically. The people here, especially the native Philadelphians, have won me over for sure.
3. “Favorite Kind of People” draws inspiration from Brazilian jazz-funk. Can you elaborate on how this phase influenced the song’s structure and lyrical themes?
I’m always scrounging around for inspiration, and I got into Quarteto Em Cy, which sent me down a rabbit hole. I translated one of their songs just out of curiosity and loved the straightforward, easygoing feel of the lyrics, even if the translation may have been a little off. That era of Brazilian jazz-funk—or whatever you’d call it—is so melodically lush and more rhythmically rich than what I usually lean toward when recording. Gotta love it.
4. You mentioned wanting to write something simple and real in “Favorite Kind of People.” How do you balance staying present and avoiding overthinking during your creative process?
I try and give every idea a chance. I’ll take breaks and come back with a fresh perspective. If I’m not feeling it, I’m not afraid to toss it on the back burner. For every good song, there are at least ten bad ones in its wake. Sometimes the bad ones turn into funny ones, and I’ll just ride that out and have a good time.
5. How do your experiences as both a musician and visual artist influence each other, and do you plan to incorporate more visual elements into your upcoming releases?
It’s nice to have other creative outlets to express myself. Once a project feels finished, I enjoy exploring the lyrical themes and sounds to create visuals and build a world around it. For ‘Favorite Kind of People’ and the upcoming singles, it felt fun to make something tangible, so I sculpted little gremlins and took their photos. I always say I want to work with an artist or designer on creative direction, but that day has yet to come. At the very least, it saves me some cash.
6. What can fans expect from your new project coming in Spring 2025, and how does it differ from your previous work, both with Sports and your recent releases?
I feel like I’ve matured as a songwriter and producer with this project. It’s funkier at times. Maybe more sentimental. I dunno, we’ll just have to see!
Check out “Favorite Kind Of People” below: