In the realm of music, there exists a rare breed of artists whose songs resonate with such raw authenticity that they can be likened to personal journal entries, bearing the unfiltered emotions and experiences of the artist. Jei-Rynn, the enigmatic alt-pop musician, is precisely one of those artists. Drawing inspiration from a diverse spectrum of musical eras, his songs are a reflection of his journey through life, encapsulating moments of introspection, struggle, and self-discovery.
Born as Jason Ledesma in Orange County, California, Jei-Rynn’s early years were typical, filled with the joys and tribulations of growing up. However, as he ventured into his teenage years, he began to feel a growing sense of alienation from his peers. Anxiety and periodic bouts of depression cast a shadow over his adolescence. Music and songwriting emerged as not just a pastime but as a lifeline, offering him a channel for self-expression and exploration.
Jei-Rynn’s musical odyssey began when he started piano lessons at the tender age of nine. By the age of twelve, he had acquired his first guitar and commenced writing his own songs. These formative years were the incubator for the unique blend of influences that would later shape his music.
One of the defining qualities of Jei-Rynn’s music is its eclectic yet singular nature. He seamlessly melds elements from the 90s grunge, 2000s emo and pop-punk, and 2010s indie scenes to create an alt-pop style that is hauntingly nostalgic while also bearing the stamp of something strikingly new.
With the musical groundwork laid, Jei-Rynn embarked on his journey through the world of music, performing in various bands and even opening for accomplished artists like John Nolan of Taking Back Sunday and The Higher. Notably, he also had the privilege of playing guitar for Olivia Rodrigo’s backing band just before her major label debut.
Jei-Rynn’s journey reached a turning point in 2019 with the onset of the global pandemic. As the world retreated into isolation, he turned inwards to find solace and creative inspiration. This period marked the genesis of his solo career, and under the moniker “Jei-Rynn,” he released his debut single, ‘screaming inside,’ in 2022. Produced by the renowned Alex Newport (known for his work with L.S. Dunes, At the Drive-In, and Bloc Party), the song delved into Jei-Rynn’s personal feelings of isolation and identity crisis, mirroring the experiences of many introverted individuals. It also touched upon the sense of isolation felt by Asian-Americans during a tumultuous era marked by an upsurge in Asian hate.
Following the release of ‘screaming inside,’ Jei-Rynn continued to pour his heart and soul into his music, producing a series of singles that explore themes of broken relationships, suicidal ideation, and the indomitable will to survive. ‘Walk away,’ produced by Alex Arias (known for his work with The Mowgli’s and Matchbox Twenty), and ‘still alive,’ produced by Marshall Gallagher of Teenage Wrist, were poignant pieces that captivated listeners with their emotional depth and lyrical poignancy.
In 2022, Jei-Rynn released his first EP, titled ‘overreacting,’ a body of work that delved further into the themes of isolation and loss, exploring them in different forms. The EP showcased his remarkable ability to translate complex emotions into tangible, relatable melodies. Produced by Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount, known for their work with bands like Mayday Parade and Cartel, and featuring one track produced by Alex Arias, ‘Overreacting’ was an introspective journey set to music.
What sets Jei-Rynn apart not only in the musical landscape but also in the visual realm are his self-directed music videos. Drawing inspiration from dark film auteurs like David Lynch, Tim Burton, and Stanley Kubrick, his videos serve as visual companions to his music, adding layers of depth and mystique to his artistry.
The years 2022 and 2023 marked a significant turning point in Jei-Rynn’s career as he took the stage for the first time as a solo artist. Live performances at iconic Southern California venues like the Whiskey a Go Go and the Viper Room allowed him to connect with his audience in a way that studio recordings simply couldn’t match. Opening for artists such as Love Ghost, signed to Cleopatra Records, and Tommy Next, an artist on One A Records (associated with Bad Wolves on Better Noise Music), brought him closer to his fans and the wider music community.
A multiethnic artist of Japanese, Italian, and South American descent, Jei-Rynn defies categorization. His music spans genres, and his multi-instrumental prowess is evident in the depth and complexity of his compositions. With an unwavering commitment to exploring complicated themes in a relatable and tangible way, he continues to captivate his audience. The year 2024 holds the promise of additional releases that will undoubtedly further enrich his impressive body of work.
In the realm of music, artists like Jei-Rynn are a rare treasure. They harness the power of melody and verse to transform their innermost thoughts and feelings into something tangible, allowing listeners to connect with their own experiences through the music. Jei-Rynn’s journey from a typical childhood in Orange County to the stages of Southern California is a testament to the transformative power of art. His songs, akin to journal entries, serve as a mirror, reflecting the myriad emotions that make us human, and in doing so, they remind us of the enduring power of music to heal, inspire, and connect.
