Jeris Johnson Talks Touring, His New Dragonborn Album and Connecting With Fans
Dec. 18 at The Echo in Los Angeles was a night to remember as Jeris Johnson delivered an electrifying performance that left the crowd buzzing with excitement.
Known for blending rock, pop and electronic influences, Jeris brought his unique sound and magnetic stage presence to life in a way that exceeded our expectations. We also had the chance to interview the artist after his concert, but before we dive into that, check out our thoughts on the show.
From the moment Jeris stepped on stage, the crowd was captivated, feeding off his infectious enthusiasm and powerhouse vocals. His guitar and drum players added to the quality of the show, and Jeris's charisma complemented the live band.
His ability to engage the crowd was admirable, with plenty of call-and-response moments that turned the performance into a communal experience. There were moments of head banging, matched with moments of being fully immersed in his vocals.
Jeris' charm, talent and fearless creativity shone brightly, leaving no doubt that he's an artist destined for even greater heights. If you ever have the chance to see Jeris Johnson live, seize it. His show is a reminder of why live music remains such a powerful and transformative experience.
(Photo credit: Stefanie Moser)
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Sweety High: What's been the most rewarding part of seeing your music take off, especially this year?
Jeris Johnson: I think this year specifically felt so good because it was really my first year that I fully embraced being a "rock/metal" artist. That was previously something I had run from; even though I grew up playing in bands, I wanted to be seen as this forward-thinking genius making the craziest s*** possible. And while I still enjoy being creative, I also just let myself make some songs that 15-year-old Jeris would love. So, it has been extremely rewarding to see those songs do so well.
SH: Your music has a raw energy that feels both nostalgic and fresh. How do you balance honoring rock's roots while creating something fresh?
JJ: I think the key part of making something feel fresh is putting your true soul into it. That's what great bands that have come before me have always done, and that's why their music always feels like "them." Every human being is unique, so in order to make your music mirror that, you have to give up a piece of yourself for it.
SH: You're very hands-on with production. How important is it for you to control the sound and aesthetic of your music?
JJ: Extremely important. I learned a long time ago that completely relying on someone else to make your music is a lost cause. It will never be what it could or should be. That doesn't mean collaborating isn't great because it is. It just means that when you are actually hands-on with the production, it gives you the freedom to put more of yourself into it. Which, as I just said in the question above, is very important, especially for me.
SH: Your image and energy scream "modern rock star." How do you see the role of the rock star evolving in the new year?
JJ: I think the brand of a "modern rock star" is always evolving, but the principle stays the same. When you see someone who's a rock star, you kinda just know. It's a feeling more than anything tangible or recreateable. As I've gotten older, I've cared less and less about having the perception of a "rock star." At the end of the day, it's just about the energy and spirit you bring to the music and performance.
(Photo credit: Slater Goodson)
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SH: Your live shows are known for being high-energy. What's your favorite part about performing live?
JJ: Playing shows is like the reward for making the music. To get into a room full of people and be able to watch them sing and enjoy music that means so much to you (and maybe even more to them) is the ultimate prize.
SH: And with this being your first headlining tour, what's something you've learned about yourself during the process?
JJ: I've learned that I love headlining.
SH: Do you have any pre-show rituals or habits that help you get into the zone?
JJ: I usually just hang out in the green room and play video games. Nothing crazy—just relax and have fun.
SH: Dragonborn is a no-skip album. Do you have a favorite song from the album, and why?
JJ: "Welcome To Valhalla" is probably my personal fave just because of the journey that we had to go on to make that song. It took the most time for sure and was the most painstakingly crafted, so the blood that I had to sacrifice probably made it my fave.
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SH: Where do you see yourself and your music a year from now and five years from now? What legacy do you want to leave behind?
JJ: I just want to keep making great music that connects with people. At the end of the day, that's all I care about. Whatever legacy comes with that, I'll be okay with that.
SH: Do you have any exciting projects coming in the new year that you can tease?
JJ: More new songs, videos and art. I am unsure of how they will be packaged yet, but I'm most excited to keep evolving into my artistry and climb new mountains.
For more insights from our favorite performers, click HERE to read our interview with Stephen Dawes on his previous tour.