In the often bustling city of Philadelphia, PA, a notable country music star was born, Jeremy McKern. Now residing in Salem, Oregon, and heavily influenced by his early years spent in the quaint town of Siletz, Oregon, McKern has made waves in the independent music scene. We caught up with him to discuss his intriguing journey, musical influences, and future plans.
Jeremy McKern: A Late Bloomer in Music
Like many, the global pandemic ushered in significant changes for McKern. He found solace in a guitar, intending only to sing around the campfire. Yet, his captivating performances at a local karaoke bar during the pandemic drew attention, leading many to believe he was a professional singer. The questions and admiration drove him to form a band and start creating music. Listen to his enchanting vocals on Spotify.
Shaping the Sound of Jeremy McKern
With influences ranging from Johnny Cash to Chris Stapleton, McKern weaves tales through his music, much like the tradition of country music. However, his style is uniquely his own—a hearty blend of country, blues, and rock. His vocals are reminiscent of the country legends he grew up listening to, yet they possess an undeniable modern flair, as if John Prine, Johnny Cash, Chris Stapleton, and Sturgill Simpson collaborated on an album.
Whiskey Bound: The Journey of Band and Album
Collaboration hasn’t been much of a focal point for McKern, but his band “Whiskey Bound” is currently working on an album produced by a seasoned professional. They aim to complete the album by October, with singles being released as early as next month. Follow his journey on Instagram.
A memorable moment for McKern and his band was their first live performance at a local bar’s grand opening. The crowd’s overwhelming response solidified their decision to venture into the music industry.
Messages Through Music: Jeremy McKern’s Perspective
Aside from creating heartfelt country music, McKern emphasizes the importance of personal growth and the pursuit of dreams, no matter one’s age. He believes in focusing on individual lives and communities, leaving politics aside. Despite hip-hop’s pervasiveness in today’s music scene, he notes its influence on his music is minimal, limited to the genre’s roots in rhythm and blues.
Facing Challenges and Looking Ahead
In navigating the music industry, McKern’s biggest hurdle has been understanding the intricacies of the business and determining his next steps. Yet, his entrepreneurial spirit keeps him moving forward.
His yet-to-be-named album “Whiskey Bound,” offers insights into his life, relationships, and strong views about government and military. Being a country boy with a Christian upbringing and a retired Navy Veteran, his music mirrors his beliefs and experiences.
Over time, music has evolved from a source of enjoyment to a way of life for McKern. He’s determined to keep grinding in the competitive music industry, believing that it’s a marathon and not a sprint. He has plans for a 2024 tour and hopes to continue building a robust team around him to aid in his journey.
