Artist Profile: Trace Jory
Introducing Trace Jory, an outstanding musicians, songwriter and member of The Marcy Collective, blending a unique mix of musical styles to create soulful and captivating experiences. Drawing influence from blues, hip hop, folk and indie pop genres – his sound is soulful and engaging. From awakening new perspectives on classic sounds, to crafting entirely original outlets for emotion-filled messages – the impact of Trace’s work is undeniable. Driven by passion and creativity that knows no bounds; catch a glimpse at what makes this international musician so inspiring! Check out the EXCLUSIVE interview with the artist to get to know him and how he could add value to your projects or creative teams.
TMC: What have been some of your most meaningful influences when creating music?
Trace Jory: As far as music goes, I would have to go with Lumineers, Kings of Leon, Jack Johnson, MCR, Damien Rice, Illenium, Oldies, J Cole. I find myself writing in that ‘emo kind’ of melody often but to folky chord progressions and anthemic vibes, if you will. As far as movies go: Tarantino and anything with memorable script ideas. I just watched A Man Called Otto and that inspired a few ideas. As far as content: vulnerability all day. Our world sucks without it, I think. Relationships, emotions, observations and truth.
TMC: How has living in Nashville impacted the sound of your music?
Trace Jory: It has made it slightly more country, if I am being honest. By that I mean I really tapped into my lower register and found a huge love for singing from my gut and chest spaces. It has grounded it a little bit and made it more acoustic all awhile really wanting to make music like Illenium, Skrillex, Big Wild, haha. And it has involved community a lot more due to the co-writing quality of the music scene here.
TMC: Do you ever collaborate with other artists on creating music?
Claire Kelly, Hovey Otis, Luke Zvada, Taylor Tuke, Michael Barnes, Samuel Moore, Wilson Harwood are my usual musician buddy collabs and then also sending most new songs to about 5-10 friends is my usual process. Yeah, I love collaborating, jamming, all that - it makes the process a lot more fun (sometimes) and other times I love a good stoned solo writing session. Weed has been involved in about 98% of all my songwriting, for one reason or another. Anyhoo…
TMC: What are your long-term goals or ambitions as a musician?
Trace Jory: To be able to play Red Rocks, The Ryman & The Gorge and if there are other legendary venues, cool, but those are my 3. Once I play those I can stop trying although music will always be a part of my life. Teach college Psychology year round and then during the breaks, go on epic tours would be most of the life goal. Then eventually open a therapeutic retreat center (w/ my Masters in Psychology I don’t use currently) that involves music heavily would be lifetime goal.
TMC: What was the creative process like for your most recent single, “Smoke”?
Trace Jory: I wrote 75% and brought it to Claire. She finished up the last 25% and made it a SONG. I wrote it about a very lovely ex-girlfriend about a year and a half ago… recorded it with my Blue mic that my buddy traded me for back in college and those are the vocals that are on the song! It was a fun song to make especially once Taylor Tuke jumped in with the keys and bass. Tay, you’re a boss.
TMC: What has been the biggest surprise or lesson from your journey as a musician thus far?
Trace Jory: It’s not about the money cause that might never come. It is about the therapeutic aspect and fulfillment I feel when I finish a song or when I play for someone and see how that song affects their emotions. That is what it always should/will be about.
TMC: What other genres do you incorporate into your sound?
Trace Jory: I love listening to all kinds of music. If I had to make a list, it would have some Folk, Soul, Americana, Electronic, Hip Hop, Doo Wop & Beatbox.
To wrap it up - Trace Jory is a unique artist propelling the boundaries of popular music with his voice and talent. His sound embodies an eclectic mix of global beats, soulful harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, which are sure to keep your toes tapping. If you're looking for thoughtful lyrics and great vibes, Trace Jory is worth listening to. So wrap up that playlist and make some room for one more artist—Trace Jory! Tell your friends too; this is an artist we all need on our radar! And don't forget to follow their journey on Spotify, Instagram, and Twitter. Get ready to be blown away by their entire catalogue and experience something truly special in the world of music. Until next time: cheers to Trace Jory!
