Atlanta-based guitarist, producer and songwriter Jermaine Hardsoul recently teamed up with Grammy-nominated artist Eric Roberson and D. Scott to release “Merry Christmas,” a heart-winning romantic ballad that every girl wants to be serenaded with.
When asked how he defines his brand and sound, he shares, “My personal brand is Hardsoul. I create sounds of traditional soulful melodies and instrumentation with hard beats and the slick writing style of hip-hop.”
Prior to holiday single, JHardsoul released a seven-track EP featuring a cover of The Gap Band’s “Yearning For Your Love” and the single “We Can’t Finish” also featuring Roberson in November.
Read what else he has to say.
Do you most often actively seek inspiration or does it find you? Or is it a combination of the two?
If I’m aiming to create a certain feel I may listen for inspiration from some music. But most of the time inspiration finds me driving in the car or in the shower.
What led you to art in general and to your art form in particular?
My father led me me to playing guitar at a young age. I was led to production in high school while making beats for my hiphop group.
How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft?
I pay attention to new producers and the new records that people respond to. At the same time, I study the masters of the timeless classics.
Do you think that there are any widely held misconceptions about artists? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?
With all of the reality shows about artists, there aren’t as many misconceptions about artists. I think artists need to maintain a level of mystic.
How do you map out your goals? How do you measure your success?
Even though I’m creative, I’m pretty calculated and strategic about my goals. I measure success by how much I complete my plans.
Who do you consider to be your peers in your field? Who do you see or use as examples to emulate?
I look at people like Eric Hudson and Ryan Leslie as peers – people who keep musicianship and soul in today’s music. I look to emulate people like Salaam Remi, Warryn Campbell and Raphael Saadiq who do the same.
Name two of your top role models: one in the art world and one from outside of it.
Will Smith appears to be dedicated to success and winning. He seems to balance it well with family. I also like how he comes from a background – hip-hop – that i can identify with.
Name books, works, performances or exhibits that changed how you view life and/or yourself.
The Bible, The Secret
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?
Do what you do well and God has a path for you to succeed.
What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?
Technology plays a big role in my life. It allows me to do more quickly and more efficiently.
What software, app or other technological innovation has made the biggest difference in your life and/or career?
ProTools has been the most important software in my career as a musician.
