Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacen Pierre-Louis
Hi Jacen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The concept for EarthTonez Music Collective took shape around 2017, thanks to Ben Franklin and Jacen Pierre-Louis. Motivated by some of our favorite artists, we wanted to create a group dedicated to the music we loved. Our initial effort faced challenges due to differing viewpoints among members. However, through various events like band jams and performances, we eventually connected with musicians such as Matt Harris, Collin Oliver, Rhemy Ventura, Lenon Toussaint, and Dante Dunbar. We enthusiastically sought out any venue willing to host us because we were eager to perform. Before the pandemic hit, we played a lot of cover songs and Top 40 music. When the COVID-19 outbreak halted gig opportunities, we found a chance to unite and write original music. Blending jazz, hip-hop, soul, alternative, and various other genres, we crafted our unique sound. In 2021, we released our debut single, “Honey Yellow.” Since then, we’ve had the pleasure of performing at numerous venues, including Timucua, Tuffys, and Gasparilla Fest.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Our journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. In the beginning, it seemed as though opportunities were scarce and fleeting, but through perseverance and dedication, we continued to climb the ladder of success.
Along the way, we encountered challenges with venues and bookers who expected us to conform to their standards, yet we remained steadfast in embracing our unique sound and identity. Balancing our passion for music with the demands of family, careers, and daily life has also been no small feat. Additionally, as the band evolved, we experienced shifts in our lineup. Our second keyboardist/auxiliary player moved forward in his career path, and our primary drummer relocating, Though their paths have taken them elsewhere, they will always be an extension of Earthtonez.
Despite these changes, our journey continues to unfold. We’ve welcomed new members into the Earthtonez family, each bringing fresh energy and creativity to our collective vision. Through every challenge and transition, our passion for music and our commitment to one another remain unwavering. This is just the beginning of an ever-evolving story, one that we are proud to share with all who support us.
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?
As a band, we all juggle our day jobs, but we’re committed to coming together on weekends for our performances. Despite our hectic schedules, we regularly meet to rehearse for upcoming events, work on new music, and discuss our future plans.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Practice, stay consistent, master the fundamentals (theory, playing by ear, sight reading), stay encouraged, network, never stop building your brand, never compare yourself to others, always play with confidence. Creating your own lane is a reoccurring theme. There’s alot of musicians and artists we pull inspiration from, but we definitely create our own waves and sound. Our own vibe we like to say!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/earthtonez_music_co?utm_medium=copy_link
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EarthTonezBand/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@earthtonezmusiccollective7871?si=T6dX-WrKXRF4Ek8T
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@earthtonezmusicco?_t=ZT-8uxOOFJ2gkU&_r=1
Image Credits
Jacen Pierre-Louis: Guitar/Vocals
Matt Harris : Guitar
Collin Oliver: Keys
Ben Franklin: Bass
Dante Dunbar: Drums
Lenon Toussaint: Keys/Aux
Rhemy Ventura: Drums
