Artist Interviews 2022

Jalen Rance    
By Rebecca Adele



Jalen Rance is a new up and coming R&B singer-songwriter. Originally from Boston, he lives in Los Angeles creating music. He has put numerous singles out over the years, but his first album “Indecisive” was recently released on all streaming platforms. 



You’ve put out numerous singles and now an album! How would you describe the type of music you produce?

The type of music I make would definitely be R&B and pop, but I like to try everything. I just really love the way R&B has always made me feel.



 As an artist and creative, when did you first know you wanted to be a singer?

I have always known that I wanted to be a singer for as long as I can remember. My father growing up had a lot of impact because of his job. He was a bodyguard for a lot of different artists growing up and he introduced me to a lot of the music like Brandy, Mary J Blige, Joe, etc. At 14 is when I started to take it seriously. 



How do you come up with your lyrics? Can you tell us a bit about your process?

Honestly it's experimental. Somedays I know exactly what I want to talk about but other days I have no damn clue and I'll just respond to the information that the beat is giving me. I've been recently trying to expand my vocabulary, take poetry classes, and read more. I love writing and only want to get better. It's the best way to express how I'm feeling. 



What has been one of your favorite lyrics you’ve written? Why?

Some of my favorite lyrics are in the song I wrote called "cloud nine". It talks about some struggles as a LGBTQ+ person. What's funny is I didn't want to write a song like this but Alex kept convincing me too. It's not that the topic is bad, it's just when people write songs about this stuff it gets corny. I just wanted it to come off in a better way so hopefully I did that. I believe I did. 

Do you ever experience writer's block?

Yes, a lot lately right now. I'm pushing through it though and trying to get reinspired. Going outside more, hanging out with friends, talking to guys. Just trying to live, you know? 



You're from Boston. What was it like moving to Los Angeles to pursue music?

It was really exciting but also really nerve wracking. I had $1600 in my bank account. It was hard finding a job at first on my air mattress, lampless room. I moved in with two of my best friends though and I'm so grateful I did. 



Who is your biggest fan?

My forever family, my parents, and my really close friends. Also myself.



 What is something you’ve accomplished and something you want to accomplish with your career?

Something I've accomplished is making a body of art I actually liked. Something I want to accomplish is another album but make it better than before.



 What is your ultimate goal in the music world?

The ultimate goal is to be able to live off of what I love to do and tell my story hoping someone can relate in some way.



 You’ve accomplished so much at a young age. What’s coming up next for you?

Really pushing my latest album release "Indecisive". Some shows are coming up and more music!