Was there something (an experience) or someone in your life that was the "catalyst" for you to start writing or performing music? Tell us about it:
It was 2020 and I had nothing to do and nowhere to go. I started going down the YouTube rabbit hole and found some videos of an artist that I already admired, playing acoustic songs and singing. I remembered that once upon a time, I could do that too, so I got my guitar off the wall, cleaned it up, found a great teacher, a co-writer and it was off to the races. I haven't looked back since.
Let's get this out of the way. What is the CRAZIEST thing that has ever happened to you in your music career?
Well, I did win an award last year from the Indie Music Channel. It was for Best Emerging Female Artist of the Year. I had no idea I was even nominated, so that was a very pleasant surprise.
What has been the high point of your music path?
To be honest, the high point comes when I am meeting my musical heroes and even working with some of them. I have some pretty amazing and incredibly talented people in my corner and I am forever grateful.
So, how do you approach songwriting or what is your creative process like?
I am actually more of a lyricist I guess. I have a thought, a word or phrase that pops in my head and I have to write it down. Sometimes it can be an entire song. The words have woken me up in the middle of the night. Sometimes I have an idea for the style of music or the feel, but I work with my co-writers to help with the music and melody portion.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing Indie Artists today? Or, if you could ask the music industry to change one thing, what would it be?
Breaking through all of the noise. So many songs are uploaded to streaming platforms every single day and it's easy to get lost in the crowd. That and having someone to manage the business side of things. That is my very least favorite thing to do. I would rather let someone I trusted handle that so I can just create. Perhaps one day.
If you could share the stage with one other artist or band, who would it be and why?
Anyone and everyone! Lol. I really just started a few years ago and have been unable to perform live due to health issues so I would be happy just to be on a stage. That being said, I would love to share a stage with the man who inspired me to give music another shot again after more than a couple of decades. Myles Kennedy. I would actually love to write a song with him. I can keep dreaming. ;)
Pick one song that was your greatest challenge to write. Tell us about it:
I don't really think the writing has been much of a challenge. Of course, there are times when I have a little writers block, but I just put it aside and do something else for awhile. The music and melody are always a challenge but that is why I have my awesome co-writers.
For fans who have never heard your music, can you pick three words to describe it?! If three words just aren't enough, then tell us more! Determined. Hopeful. Resilient.
What is your favorite part about being an artist? Is it songwriting, performing, recording, something else?
I absolutely love writing and recording. Writing is my therapy. It helps me manage my current health journey and get out frustrations and emotions in a positive and productive way. I have also started doing some video recordings of both original and cover songs that I share on my social media pages. It's my way of "getting out there" and sharing my story and my music with others.
Okay, this a fun question. When you are not doing music, what else do you enjoy doing?
I adopted a new dog in January 2024. She is a Frenchie from Bullies 2 The Rescue in Charlotte. I spend a lot of time with her. She is the best, and makes me smile and laugh every day. I did find out however, that she does not really like music of any kind. I can forgive her though. I also like to cook, paint, and well, collect guitars.
What's coming up in the future for you?
We are working on more songs now to be released over the next few months. Other than that, I just hope to get my health back so I can live my life to the fullest. For more information about Kristi, please visit her website.
About Kristi Jacques
Originally from Charleston, SC, Kristi now resides in Myrtle Beach. Her upbringing was deeply rooted in the local music scene, where she honed her skills through guitar lessons, singing, and assisting at a music store. Additionally, she gained valuable experience working for an entertainment newspaper. Despite life's challenges, her early immersion in music significantly influenced her enduring passion for the art form.
However, Kristi's journey took an unexpected turn when a chronic lung illness began to impact her singing abilities. Currently awaiting placement on the double lung transplant list, she persists in pursuing her musical aspirations, undeterred by adversity and supported by her trusty oxygen tank. "I'll do whatever it takes to keep pushing forward. Music fuels my spirit, sustaining me through any obstacle. I eagerly anticipate a brighter tomorrow."