We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamie Hansen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jamie, what inspires you?
As a singer/songwriter, I am constantly inspired by the human experience. Throughout my teen years and early 20s, heartbreak was a common theme – in my life and songs. It gave me a perspective necessary to become a better songwriter. Now, I am inspired by my work and adventures in the outdoors, the different relationships in my life – whether that be romantic, familial, or friendship – my calling to a greater purpose, and more. There is so much detail in our daily lives that is just waiting to be written about. I am also inspired by the great artists who have come before me, as well as those I am currently working with in the industry. When I started writing songs, the way I learned was by listening to CDs in my bedroom – Taylor Swift, Shania Twain, Tim McGraw – all made a huge impact on my songwriting style. Now, I am incredibly grateful to be in an industry where you can work and collaborate with your competition, and not be scared of it. There’s room for everyone.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was born three months too early. When I was in the NICU, my grandmother Mary would come and sing to me. I honestly believe that’s where my love for music came from. I’ve been running around singing ever since. I started writing songs at 6 years old, and its taken hundreds of songs to get to where I am today. I moved to Nashville when I was 20, and quickly learned I wasn’t meant to take the same route as everyone else. So, I returned to the West and have been forging my path here since then. I like to call my music ‘backcountry pop’ because I usually find my inspiration running horse pack trips in the backcountry of Wyoming and then jump into the studio to blend my kind of country with pop production. This year, I have 7 singles currently in the studio that I cannot wait to put into the world. Some of these songs I have waited three or four years to put out, so its been a long time coming.
The music industry is never easy. The sucess the outside world sees is the tip of the iceberg. Before the success comes failure after failure, trial and error, hard work and late night tears, prayers, and many redirections. The only way to succeed in this industry is to persevere, be yourself, and put in the hours. No one wants to follow an artist who isn’t authentic, and you can only give that if you truly know who you are. If I had made it at 16 or 20, I wouldn’t have had a clue. I still haven’t ‘made it’, but I’m creating art I’m proud of and working my tail off. I just have to believe one day its going to pay off.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I ama nature lover – so a lot of time would be spent in Rocky Mountain National Park. We would have to hit a show at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre – as there is no better place to see a concert. We would visit Cherry Creek North, perhaps take them for breakfast at Snooze. I do enjoy a good trip to the Denver Zoo, though I haven’t been in ages! My boyfriend is a big fan of the Colorado Avalanche, so I would highly recommend going to a hockey game. Other places I would recommend for a good time: Comedy Works, going ice skating in Skyline Park, and visiting the Botanic Gardens.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It takes a village to build a business, brand, or career. And I certainly have a village. I wouldn’t be the vocalist I am without my Grandmother Mary, who has been my vocal instructor over the years. My entire family has been incredibly supportive and my parents come to every show they can. In the past three years, I have been incredibly lucky to have the support of my boyfriend Nick Sullivan. Not only has he been my cheerleader and pushed me towards my goals, but he has taken on the painstaking job of being my videographer. My circle is filled with amazing friends who help in all of my endeavors – helping shoot a music video, setting up for shows, sharing on social media, and so much more. So many people have taken a chance on me – playing my song on air, giving me an interview, inviting me to play at their venue, and I can’t thank them enough. Above all, my success is God’s. He opens doors and opportunities that I couldn’t dream of, and closes ones that aren’t meant for me.
Website: www.jansenhamie.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jansenhamie/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jansenhamie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jansenhamie
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JamieHansen97/videos
Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jansenhamie
Image Credits
Anita George Joel Moline Nick Sullivan Jordan Wertman