TJ Jones
TJ Jones opens up about the inspiration behind “My Muse (Jazz Version),” the emotional power of silence and melody, genre exploration, authenticity, and what’s coming next.
1. My Muse (Jazz Version)” is described as a soulful tribute to someone who unlocked a different side of your creativity. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the song and what made this particular muse so meaningful to you as an artist?
My particular Muse inspired me with their enduring presence and unwavering support for my newly embarked-upon, aspiring songwriting career. They have been a catalyst for my own growth and for my ventures into multi-genre songwriting. They have helped me to believe that all things are possible, and I am capable of what I put my mind to do too.
2. The track combines silky saxophone lines, warm melodies, sophisticated grooves, and a romantic atmosphere. What drew you toward a jazz approach for “My Muse,” and how did you shape the musical arrangement to reflect the emotions behind the lyrics?
Jazz was chosen as the vehicle to best display this song as it captures your attention without spelling everything out, has an old-school feel which makes it timeless and captivating and creates a sense of curiosity and/or intimacy.
3. You mentioned wanting the song to feel “like a conversation between two people without saying a word.” How important is the relationship between silence, melody, and emotion in your songwriting, and how did you translate that idea into this track?
As a songwriter, it was vital to leave actual empty space after an important lyric to help it land properly. Silence became part of the meaning, whether contemplation, revelation, anticipation, hesitation, or longing. Melodies can say what lyrics cannot and make you want to move and groove. Letting the melodies rise and fall exposed the rhythmic vulnerability of instrumental phrases.
4. “My Muse (Jazz Version)” is your second jazz single and has already begun receiving radio attention. How does exploring jazz compare with your previous musical work, and do you see this direction becoming an important part of your artistic identity?
Great question. Lyrics really guide the artistic interpretation of all my singles. I am a feeling type of person, and I must love the sensation, emotion, and melodic expression of what I am truly trying to convey. I have released multi-genre songs to date: pop, gospel, country, Lo-Fi, and jazz. With more to come 😊. Some songs fit multiple genre. In that case, I only need to decide which to release next. I do try to mix it up and not release the same genres back-to-back. Requests from friends and family members, who are my unofficial listening party members, are factored in as well.
5. Your music places a strong emphasis on authenticity and relatability and encourages people to express their feelings openly. How do you balance personal experiences and emotions with the desire to create songs that listeners can interpret through their own experiences?
As an emerging songwriter, I only know how to write and release songs from an authentic place. A place of reflection, expression, fears, tears, triumph, transparency, and faith. I now realize that not all songs reach everyone, but it is my hope that they reach anyone who needs them.
6. With “My Muse (Jazz Version)” marking another chapter in your musical journey, what can listeners expect from TJ Jones next? Are there any upcoming singles, projects, collaborations, or new creative directions you can share with us?
I have another jazz single which will be released in October 2026. My goal is to release monthly singles, including yet unreleased songs specifically written for the upcoming holidays.