Today we’d like to introduce you to Jesse Kelly.
Hi Jesse, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
Growing up in Jackson, Mississippi, music was a part of our home. My dad was a full-time radio host/announcer/DJ. He would bring vinyl records home constantly…it grew to a decent collection. Mom and Dad (Jesse and Dye Ann) played piano. I remember hearing my mom playing a song one Saturday morning while I was watching cartoons. I ran into the living room, sat down on the bench beside her, and began playing by ear. This was at age 5. To me, the piano is an instrument that if played skillfully, can interpret any expression, any emotion. You can literally tell a story with those keys. This moment in time kicked started my path to music production. My wife, who is a very skillful singer, was my production beta tester. I would drag her out the bed late at night with a crazy song idea. I’d spend my entire payroll check on music gear, and would stay up all night til daylight the next morning learning my craft. Like any artist, I’ve experienced dark times, chasing this dream, losing things, and feeling abandoned, but my wife and kids supported those endeavors every step of the way. I moved my family to Dallas for better jobs and opportunities, and I have no regrets. It’s been nothing but up since. My technical career has taken off beyond my expectations, and I’ve embraced the Dallas music scene. There’s so much talent in this big city, and my goal is to be the go-to producer for Grammy-winning hits. Because of the success and flexibility of my day job, I’m able to devote more and invest more into my music goals. I’ve recently become a rapper. Not by desire, but by urgency. I’ve chased down rappers and singers looking for someone to give me a chance to produce. Unfortunately, a lot of music artists wanna make it to the top but are not willing to work for it, no urgency, can’t manage their time, and they get caught up in performing weekly at local venues…which is cool and exciting, and I support them on a weekly basis, but there’s more to accomplish, more to reach for, and it takes commitment and dedication around the clock. I got tired of waiting and chasing artists, so I became one by desperation to produce music (Jesse Del Queens). The neighborhood I grew up in was called the Queens, and my middle name is Delaney, so I combined those into one name. I gave away all my living room furniture and transformed it into a studio. I don’t have a TV or any furniture to lounge on. I’ve dedicated all of my spare time to this dream to become Dallas’s premier music producer, and things are lining up (as the ole western movie characters would say). Our record label is called J Posse Media. We’re a posse, a group of creators, summoned by passion, armed with hits. Passion to create is what drives us. Kelly Ross (my wife’s stage name) is releasing her first single later this summer entitled “London Bridge”, a song about the ups and downs of love, and how the complexity of it all is like an addiction that keeps you held hostage in that toxic cycle. It’s a beautiful cinematic R&B arrangement that will definitely take off. My first single is to be determined. I have so many songs I’ve recorded, not sure which one to release first. Whichever one I choose; I’ve made it a personal goal to feature another Dallas artist.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
One of my struggles is finding quality time to create. I remember my teachers in elementary school discussing how kids learn better in the morning when their minds are fresh and their stomachs are full of breakfast. I understand and have witnessed this for myself. Having the mornings and the early afternoons to create would be a dream come true. With the responsibilities of a husband and father, quitting my 9 – 5 hasn’t been an option, at least right now, Evenings, late nights and all weekend is my only time to devote to music.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
During the day I manage a group of technical advisors at CellGate. We provide technical support for dealers and installers who install our products. I was once a field technician myself for approx. 15 years, even started my own installation company. When I moved to Dallas in 2012, I traded my tool belt and work truck for a desk phone at a call center. I moved up from a front-line support agent to a supervisor, and now a manager. Managing people is fun and challenging, and I’ve enjoyed this journey so far. If things don’t pan out in music, I definitely have a plan B that’s looking really nice!
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Don’t be afraid to politely ignore other people’s opinions about you. Family and friends have no problem letting you know what they think you should do with your life. The sooner you understand that what you want is important and should be viewed as a priority, that’s when happiness begins. It’s a choice. Another lesson I’ve learned is to not be afraid to pack up all your stuff and move to where the action is. Yeah, it’s scary and things may be uncertain, but man let me tell Ya, experiencing a new town, new people, new places to go, new feel good. Take advantage of the new!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jpossemedia/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JPosse-Media-107266221548302
