We had the good fortune of connecting with VERSE and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi VERSE, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
One of the main reasons I chose to pursue a career in music is mostly because it’s one of the few things in life that make me feel free! It’s what I love to do, I eat, sleep, and breathe music. It’s a way for me to escape the reality around me but also use that energy to create songs. In an overly saturated industry it’s difficult to find success or stand out from the crowd but the passion I have for recording, writing and performing are immense and I couldn’t see myself doing anything else with my life. Sharing my voice and creative works inspire a sense of wholesomeness not to mention a legacy that I truly feel is my soul purpose for being.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Diversity is a big thing for me at the moment. The music industry is saturated with new aspiring artists from every genre, city and state which makes it extremely difficult to separate yourself from the crowd but I guess what makes me different is my raw mentality to continue to be myself in any situation whether that being a new song or even just a conversation with someone. I like to leave my mark on peoples lives with laughter and character yet a wild relentless persona to always push the limits and boundaries. My style tends to be let’s say outlandish at times but I enjoy every minute of my chaotic yet colorful life.
I’ve come to be where I am today with one word “Perseverance”. The perseverance to help maintain my focus on the love I have In my heart for music. Life is a constant battle of ups and downs and I’ve always told myself to keep a positive attitude and optimistic outlook on life also to try not to control everything and let things happen naturally.
I’ve learned that we are not promised anything and that death is inevitable. Every moment is precious and I plan to take advantage of every second I have here on earth and leave behind my life’s work for the world to share.
I want people to feel the energy and emotion I’ve provided in my music and if it can bring some form of comfort or stimulation then that is where I have succeeded. To strive through life as a warrior, a student, a teacher, and as a leader.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico aka DUKE CITY, has molded me into the man I am today. It’s gritty street life and culture with an eminent local cuisine Are phenomenal.
The land of enchantment speaks for itself
with the sandia mountains lining the city limits.
Anyone who is familiar with me knows the first place we are eating is DIONS PIZZA. I started my career Albuquerque with some of my first shows residing downtown at burts tiki lounge, launchpad and other local bars around the city.
Los Angeles, CA has impacted me majorly based on the fact I’m a desert kid. Living in Venice beach was perfect for me simply because it felt like home. Gritty and artsy with a beach, such a perfect fit.
One of my favorite spots to go is the Erwin hotel high lounge and just gaze onto the ocean and watch the sunset. Teddys tacos, Hama sushi, jinya ramen etc. all go to’s for me.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Being an Artist of any sort is a lifetime of failures, losses, struggles and defeats but it’s about learning to correct those failures and learn from mistakes not to mention the good people around me that have always helped shape and critique my work. My older brother Christilli has always had an impact on my life and is definitely the reason I’ve pursued a career in the music industry. Justin Gray one of my best friends whose always had the patience to help guide and direct some of my biggest projects like the album “FOREVER FREE” which he personally executive produced dedicated to my daughter Forever Grace. My homie Shane Louis always being there for support and good guidance along the way. My Mother, Father, and Ashlie scott who have continuously put up with my shenanigans over and over again but yet continue to support me and guide me through this with love.
There’s a handful of people to acknowledge and thank for leading me to this point but most of all I’d like to thank God for never giving up on me and giving me the insight and strength to navigate through some of the toughest times of my life. Thank You
Website: https://www.versatileverse.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/versatileverse
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-michael-0a9853132
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/versatileverse
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VersatileVs/
Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/VERSATILEVERSE
Other: Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/versatile-verse/1040642881 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0v2zNtYXJeOb5B7yRyCOrL
Image Credits
@Versatileverse I take my own photos