The year is coming to an end soon (agghhh!) and I feel like this is the most common time people reflect on what they’ve accomplished and things they haven’t. Don’t worry… I ate those few extra powdered donuts before bed too. The beginning of this year, I got in the studio for the first time. I had a slight idea of what I wanted my music to sound like, along with a not so consistent style. I’ve been finding myself, as an artist, pulling away from the cover songs I perform and really thinking about what I want to say, wear, do, influence, and all that good stuff. Right now with the New Year around the corner, I feel like it’s time to take things to the next level with my career. I want more interaction with fans through MY music, not just other artists’. That’s why everything needs to be bumped up a notch to get myself as an artist out there to music lovers looking for something fresh. My website is being re-done by an entertainment pro, along with the logo.

I’m at this point where I’m having a Britney moment (and I’m referring to Britney Spears if you didn’t catch that) “not a girl, not yet a woman.” Not in a literal sense, but that’s how I feel right now with my music, age, and my appearance. I’m learning I’m not going to please everyone and all ages, that’s just not the way life and the music business work. I will never be a “simple” performer, person, or singer. I’m walking this tight rope between what’s known as Country music and what’s defined as Pop/Rock. There’s already a Carrie and a Taylor Swift, that’s not me. I want my performance to be bold, but still FUN.

Nobody’s perfect, so I don’t aim to fit an angel-like persona because that’s not me. You gotta live a little while you’re young and my mistakes along the way have made me wiser. I’m not a “good girl,” I just know when to behave and am respectful.  The more I continue to write here in Cali and in Nashville, the more I’ve come to realize what kind of artist I am. It’s a work in progress!  I’m very thankful for the fans and support I have right now, so no matter what may change with my music, I’ll always be thankful for them.

That’s all for meow. Thanks for taking the time :]

About time for an update! How’s everyone’s summer been?  The end of July has crept up on me, like usual time flies. My BIRTHDAY is tomorrow and today I’ll be going with some friends to Jason Aldean concert annnd thanks to my producer I’ll be meeting him before. Seriously have been looking forward to partying at his concert for a few weeks. I’ll be turning the big one nine if you’re wondering. The first thing that comes to mind is Bomshel’s song 19 and Crazy ;) but it’s also a reminder that time goes by quickly and I needa make the most of what I have! Soo some purdy cool thangs coming up this weekend. I’m competing in the next level of the Texaco Country Showdown at the Amador County Fair. I get to sing three songs and although I’l be naked without my band;( I’m gonna put on a hell of a show for em’ nonetheless. Also next month my band gets to open for Nashville touring and recording artist Hunter Hayes at Stoney Inn! I’m excited about that one. I’ve been playing  new original songs at acoustic shows lately and it’s been a nice change from all the covers to get peoples input on the songs. Gonna be writing lots more when I’m back in Nash in September! I’ll post some new video soon and update you all more often!! Promise.

<3JC

Ok, soo it's about time to update you! I just recently spent a week in Nashville where I played two acoustic shows. One at Hotel Indigo and one at The Commodore Lounge. It was something new for me playing at a writer's round, being that i'm used to having the full band with me and playing multiple sets of songs  through the night. Got a chance to write with some very talented writers while I was in town thanks to Sea The Desert's production team and the awesome Greg Friia for setting up the co-writes and shows! People are so nice and welcoming there that i've met so far. A common question I get is "when are ya moving to town?" Basically i'll know without any hesitation when i'm ready. Until then, it's a fun and productive trip to take every few months. :) I wrote alot this trip about a possible relationship or love and wondering how it's going to unfold based on past ones since there was a boy on my mind during that week...inspiration at it's finest--LOL!  Now the song ideas have changed since being home but i'll save that for another blog ;)

Last couple of gigs my band and I have performed, we've made a lot of new fans (or at least they seem to
be...hopefully! haha). Nothing compares to playing live shows and having the interaction with people of all different ages. Letting my "quirky" personality show on stage has been fun :D We have our firsttt ever TV appearance tomorrow on  Good Day Sacramento. Maybe something crazy will happen...crazy good of course! 

Gonna plan some fun festivites for summer in between gigs and other work. Going to see my man Jason Aldean the day before my birrfday-- HELLLYAAAHHH! Definitely wanna go camping and all that gewd stuff this summer. Also going to be doing more radio appearances and acoustic shows in addition to the full band gigs! If you come out to one of our shows lemme know what ya think or what you'd like to see. :)

PS: NEW merch and website up soooooon. yeeyyayy.

 <33JC

Spring has sprung and summer festivities are right around the corner! My EP has now been released on iTunes, Amazon, Reverbnation, and many other online music stores. Not only would I love for you to check them out and download, I would appreciate any feedback you have!  I want to get an overall feel for which song people like best and why, since they’re all a bit different and go from there with my future projects and full album.

My manager and I are looking at some different venues for a CD release party--some more local in Antioch, Oakley, or Walnut Creek, and one in Sacramento for radio people and fans out there.  All this stuff takes time but it’ll be so much fun once set in stone! We’re planning for it to be sometime towards the end of  May or June.

I’ve still been writing daily, playing some guitar, and practicing with the band. The practice part is necessary especially since we’re getting booked up a lot more now! Which I’m not complaining at all, it’s exciting.  I’ll probably be heading back to Nashville just for a week or so in June, by myself again, to get more writing sessions and play some shows, acoustically!

Sooo...friends on facebook seem to like my “weird” silly vlogs I post( ha) thinking of doing a little more of that on my new music FB page “Jessica Caylyn Music” and also on Youtube. More videos of me singing different requested songs from you, and some of my favorites!

That’s all for meoow

Much <3

JC
iTunes--Jessica Caylyn's EP & singles
Amazon mp3 store

OhhhhK... now that it's almost end of March, I thought you better know i really did think my originals would be public by now.  Im learning all sorts of things that go into an EP release that we didn't plan for until this month,  such as creating a Jessica Caylyn brand--kinda like "kleenex" for tissue!  So, Ive been workin with some creative types and been given all sorts of homework to do.  

A theme that came out of some of this work is "Natural/Dynamic" which also happens to describe the ocean, where I'll have my photo shoot to present my new brand on websites & cover art for EP. Many of you know that I LOVVE the ocean and will swim in it no matter what the temperature!

Professionals in music & image consulting say my brand should "lean more towards an Edgy direction, very 'now/modern'.  Jessica certainly has a real sultry r&b thing at times as well which lends itself to the sensual/feminine direction but her music is pretty real and to the point lyrically and her delivery has (and is developing) moments and style that are less traditional and more well... dynamic.  Overall, her look and personality strikes me a little more dynamic than sensual too. We can't necessarily see her singing "Shine" or "Should Be Over You" in boots and a sundress with a cowgirl hat on.  Jessica has vibe and power and even when vulnerable, she takes a stand ("I Should Be Over You By Now") and is emphatic about it.  I wouldn't be afraid to go a little 'dark' in her presentation as opposed to say, 'flowery'.  Her music is bright enough to bring a darker/edgier look out.  It's not 'rock' by any means and shouldn't present itself that way but there is a certain edge to her sound and look that should be accentuated." 

Friday, mom & I went shopping in SF to find a few key pieces that are comfortable and fit my brand to add to some clothes I already have.  Never been to Barney's NY before and was told to "not look at the price tags; just see what brown leather jacket I love that fits the brand."  Then, go shopping at "gently worn clothing stores" in Danville.  First time speaking with a "denim expert" and going to Bloomingdales.  Found a pair of jeans I didn't know could exist.  They are sooo comfortable, I can move easily with them and will wear them at my next show, in addition to photo shoot.  Went to basement of DSW, where there are lots of clearance shoes.  Found a pair of cute wedges that hold my foot in place without wiggling around.  Came home & showed my dad an outfit & did karate moves and jumped around to show him how comfortable the jeans & shoes are!

My producer thought the mastered songs would be ready sooner, but things happen to interrupt time lines.  Really didn't matter since we have to wait for photo shoot that was scheduled for this Wed. at the beach, but forecast is predicting rain, so probably will need to reschedule.  Sooo, now I know before announcing song releases that we have to think about the weather in addition to life events, like a death in the family of someone involved with engineering the project (which sadly happened). 

I'm at a NSAI meeting in Sacramento today with hopes my single will be listened to and considered in the contest they are doing.  I'll let you know what happens ; )

Just got back from Nashville TN; first time going alone for a month.  I didn't really know what to expect going on my own and recording professionaly for the first time. I was nervous at first but more then anything excited. The trip went better then I could have imagined and I had so much fun with the people I wrote, recorded, and stayed with. After the first few days, they definitely got to see my weird side:p The first two weeks were pre-production and making the final decision on which three songs i'd be recording. So happy with the one's that were chosen for my first original project. Going out to shows at 12th& Porter, 3rd and Linsley, The Listening Room, and some others. Seeing such great and wide variety of talent totally inspired me. Yes it was intimidating at times but more than anything it gave me ideas for performances and songwriting.

I'm still defining who I am as an artist because I'm a big mixture of things as a person.  It's not the easiest thing to do, but it's a growing process and takes a little time. I feel like these 3 songs, as of right now, show parts of my style and personality in their own way; which is what I really wanted more than anything. The musicians were so effin' talented in my tracking session! I was just sitting there quietly (surprising I know) and soaking it all up! ha. They were a big part in making the songs come to life, along with my wonderful producer, engineer, and co-writers! Once the songs are released I look forward to promoting them at different radio stations and playing them out with my band. Writing has become a love of mine, but performing is always going to be my favorite. That's something I'll never want to stop doing. Look for video of my time in the studio up within the next few weeks as the songs are released!

<33xJC

2010 seemed to have gone by so slow at the time, yet now looking back; so quickly!  I’m thankful for all the people who shaped me throughout the year-- the good and not so great ones. Even that one boyfriend I thought I loved but realized I didn’t when he said “it’s not you, it’s me.” Or the one or two friends that remained true and the ones who dissapeared or made me realize I don’t need to surround myself with careless people.  Those who have supported my music career and continue to, make me want to work that much harder and not let any of you down. Along with my family which have proven to be the most important people in my life and always will be.      

With the new year I will continue to play many more shows with my band, share original music letting the fans know more about me on a personal level, and build my songwriting craft. I look forward to surrounding myself with more musicians and driven people, building new relationships that way. I would like to put more passion into my work-- what I mean by that is taking it to a new level.  Not sitting at the same comfortable spot but furthering myself and my music in any way possible each day. There’s only so much time and last year has shown to fly by like zipppppp!     

Hmmm... what else, travel somewhere new whether it be for a show or just vacation like Europe or Australia. That’d be awesome! To be more confident and less concerned with what others think. Wear my heart and mind on my sleeve (like I do with certain people) for my fans to hear through the music. I want to learn new things from others and different surroundings! I don't know where i'll be location wise or with my career by this time of 2012 but I hope to have fallen a few times, like last year, and gotten back up to keep swimming through the crazy waves, loving the damn ride.  

"If You Do Not Think What You Want, But What You Are; You Will Be What You Are, Forever.”

So Thanksgiving is right around the corner, seems to change a little every year as I grow up.. same with Christmas. However it's still a peaceful time to be around family and not have other distractions consuming our minds and attention. There has been one thing on my mind alot latley and that is to record finally and play more! Like I said recently in a newsletter i'll be going back to Nashville end of January and have the project rolling along. I wrote a song recently about a guy who dissapointed me (no surprise there) being kinda rude and flakey. After that I got the feeling he wouldn't be able to keep a girl around acting like that, so the song is called 'Alone.' Those who ruin good things or the start of a good thing usually end up alone. I'd consider it a form of karma. I'm still trying to identify, every day, what type of artist I am. Because of this i'll be recording three somewhat different types of original songs to see what you guys think of each!  My band will be playing at Tex Wasabi's Rock n Roll BBQ on Jan. 15th. I had some of their sushi and let me say it was BOMB--the best i've ever had! They have a really nice big place, if you haven't been. For Christmas I asked for a Flip Cam so i'll start making more Vlogs of me singing and other fun stuff... that is if I get it ;) Hope you all have wonderful holidays with the ones you LOVE!

PEACE. xo
Jessica