Jei-Rynn is a unique voice in the music world. His real name is Jason Ledesma, and he is a multi-ethnic artist who has forged his own musical identity. His songs are like “journal entries” that capture his emotions and experiences in a powerful way. His alt-pop style is influenced by various genres, such as 90s grunge, 2000s emo, pop-punk, and 2010s indie. His music has a nostalgic and fresh feel that appeals to many listeners.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Jei-Rynn’s journey into the world of music began at a young age. He started taking piano lessons at the tender age of nine, laying the foundation for his future musical endeavors. By the time he was twelve, he had already acquired his first guitar, marking the beginning of his songwriting journey. Growing up in Orange County, California, his childhood was typical, but as he entered his teenage years, he began to feel increasingly alienated from his peers. Struggling with anxiety and bouts of depression, music and songwriting emerged as a lifeline and a means of self-expression and exploration.
It wasn’t long before Jei-Rynn found himself playing in various bands, opening for notable artists such as John Nolan (of Taking Back Sunday) and The Higher. He even played guitar for Olivia Rodrigo’s backing band before her major label debut. His musical talents extended beyond playing instruments as he worked with mixing engineer Dan Konopka, the drummer of OK Go, on his own compositions. The music served as a refuge during tumultuous times.
The Pandemic as a Catalyst
With the onset of the 2019 pandemic, the world grappled with unprecedented challenges. For Jei-Rynn, this period marked a pivotal moment in his career. He began writing songs as a solo artist, turning to music to navigate the isolation and identity crisis that came with being an introverted misfit and an Asian-American in the face of rising anti-Asian sentiments. His debut single, “screaming inside,” released in 2022, resonated deeply with his personal feelings of isolation, loss, and coping in a post-pandemic landscape.
As the world grappled with its collective trauma, Jei-Rynn continued to pour his emotions into his music, releasing singles such as “walk away” and “still alive.” These tracks delved into themes of broken relationships, suicidal ideation, and finding the strength to endure. His ability to address complex and often painful topics with raw authenticity struck a chord with his growing fan base.
The Debut EP: “overreacting”
In a significant milestone in his career, Jei-Rynn released his first EP, titled “overreacting.” Produced by Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount, who have worked with acclaimed bands like Mayday Parade and Cartel, and with one track produced by Alex Arias, this collection of songs further explored themes of isolation and loss in its various forms. Jei-Rynn’s music served as a poignant mirror to the challenges faced by many during the pandemic era.
Visual Storytelling
Beyond his music, Jei-Rynn also expressed his artistic vision through self-directed music videos. Drawing inspiration from dark film auteurs such as David Lynch, Tim Burton, and Stanley Kubrick, he crafted visuals that enhanced the emotional depth of his songs. These videos provided a rich and immersive experience for his audience, adding another layer to the storytelling in his music.
Taking the Stage: Live Performances
In 2022 and 2023, Jei-Rynn took his music from the recording studio to the stage, performing at prominent southern California venues like the Whiskey a Go Go and the Viper Room. He had the privilege of opening for artists like Love Ghost (Cleopatra Records) and Tommy Next (One A Records), a member of Bad Wolves under the Better Noise Music label. These live performances gave Jei-Rynn the opportunity to connect with his audience on a deeper level, sharing the raw emotions that permeate his music.
A Multiethnic, Multigenre, Multi-Instrumental Artist
Jei-Rynn’s identity is as diverse as his music. With Japanese, Italian, and South American heritage, he embodies a rich blend of cultures and influences that inform his art. His music transcends traditional genre boundaries, drawing from a wide array of styles to create a sound uniquely his own. His versatility as a multi-instrumental artist allows him to experiment with various musical elements, resulting in a sound that defies easy categorization.
Looking Ahead
As Jei-Rynn continues his musical journey, he remains committed to exploring complex themes in a relatable and tangible way. With additional releases planned for 2024, the world can expect more of his emotionally charged, thought-provoking music. Jei-Rynn’s artistry serves as a testament to the power of music in transcending the challenges of the human experience and connecting us in the most profound ways. His journey from a troubled teen finding solace in music to a promising alt-pop artist is an inspiring testament to the ability of music to heal, empower, and connect us all.
To gain deeper insights into Jei-Rynn’s music and artistic journey, be sure to follow him on Instagram. You can also immerse yourself in his soul-stirring tracks on Spotify. Furthermore, don’t miss the opportunity to explore his captivating music videos and more on his YouTube channel.
