For most, the moment one gets to see their idol in concert is beyond a dream come true. Getting the chance the meet them? A somewhat out-of-body experience. But what is it like to have the opportunity to work with them? Ask Amy Jack, who had that very chance to work with the legendary Merle Haggard on her debut album Introducing Amy Jack, available now.
We caught up with Amy to talk about her opportunity to work with Merle, her songwriting and more.
CN: For our readers who may not be familiar with you, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
AJ: I’m a country singer/ songwriter from Oklahoma currently living in Ft. Worth, Texas. I’m so excited to be able to chat with you all today, given all of the craziness happening in the world right now.
CN: Which musicians, country or not, have influenced you both personally and as an artist?
AJ: Merle Haggard and Willie Nelson immediately come to mind, I have always looked up to them. Glen Campell is also a huge influence to me.
CN: What was the first album you ever purchased?
AJ: Kenny Rogers, God rest his soul. He was one of my favorite artists and was one of the great country music legends.
CN: With everything that’s going on in the world, especially COVID-19, we hope everyone in your circle is safe and healthy. How are you holding up?
AJ: I’m taking it day by day and trying to stay sane while quarantining. But my thoughts and prayers are with those effected with the illness and those who are struggling with their businesses.
CN: Has this pandemic affected your craft in any way? Physically, such as are you in a shelter at home area and/or perhaps productively in regards to inspiration (providing some or a lack)?
AJ: Yes, this has made me appreciate humanity and appreciating the people in my life. So many people have been so kind, even strangers at the grocery store and friends reaching out to me. It is such a unique time and it inspires me to touch people with my music and lift their spirits.
CN: Can you take us through your songwriting process?
AJ: I always write with others, and I always learn so much from each of them, whether there are two writers or fourteen, I always love writing and building stories. I usually supply the idea for the song and the team will help me build it out sonically. I have a journal full of ideas and I’m always eager to share them with my Nashville writers.
CN: You received a BA in TV/ Radio/ Film and have held the position as an account executive in radio. Given the on-going discussion in regards to female representation on country radio, as a female artist combined with your background – what are your thoughts?
AJ: Females are much less represented in country as opposed to men, but some of my greatest influences were women growing up. It’s baffling that the incredible women of country aren’t getting the playtime that they deserve in this day in age, but a lot of corporations, like CMT, are actively making a difference by ensuring that female and male playtime is split equally. The activism and involvement is so inspiring to me.
CN: One of country music’s greatest legends reached out to you and offered to produce your debut album Introducing Amy Jack, which was released this year. Can you share with our readers how such an opportunity of working with none other than Merle Haggard came to be?
AJ: I got a call from Merle’s manager asking if I was available to record with Merle in his new studio and of course I agreed. Merle is one of the most humble and smart people I have ever met and it was such an incredible learning experience working with him.
CN: What was your mindset in going into this album? Can you give us an overview of what fans can expect from it?
AJ: I wanted my album to be the best quality it could possibly be. I have always been a perfectionist and Merle was the best producer for my album. He had the same standards as I did, which resulted in something I am very proud of.
CN: How much additional pressure did you feel wanting to make Merle proud of the album?
AJ: Merle was humble and compassionate. He was sensitive and very helpful during the recording process. His time was so valuable and he was one of country’s greatest legends. He wrote a song everyday and held true love and passion for music. I really looked up to him and aspire to be as compassionate as him.
CN: The album features a cover of “Got Lonely Too Early.” Why did you choose to cover that track?
AJ: I wanted an upbeat song reflecting Merle’s personality. I thought that song held Merle’s joy and compassion. I wanted Don Markhan to play sax and I thought that song was perfect for it.
CN: If you could collaborate with any one artist, who would it be?
AJ: It’s on my bucket list to write with Toby Keith. He’s a genius and I find his music very inspiring. He’s an incredible man and I would love to learn from him one day.
CN: If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?
AJ: I would hope it would be understanding. I love connecting with people and showing them compassion. I love listening to their stories and getting to know everything about them, whether it’s their problems or what they hope to achieve and overcome, I want to be there to help them every step of the way.
CN: What’s next on the horizon for you?
AJ: Hopefully performances. I’m hoping to breakthrough sports performances. I know the world is struggling right now, but I believe we will bounce back better than ever and I can’t wait to share my music when I am able to again.
For more information on Amy Jack, visit her website at www.amyjackmusic.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.