Meet Rico Jones | Music performer, composer, band leader, and educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rico Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rico, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I didn’t have a choice. At least it felt that way. Once I found creative means of expression I would become totally enthralled. It’s been like this my whole life, from make believe, to visual art, and finally music. Once I made a connection music I developed an obsession and passion for it. Music shook me to my core, it made me joyful, it made me weep. I had never found anything that made me so happy and determined. I was lucky to be exposed to many adult role models in Denver in the beginning if my development. Exposure to these elder role models further cemented my determination for certain.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is adventurous, and creative improvised music. The music I make is heavily influenced by Black American artists from the long standing tradition of “Jazz”. My music for me is a meditation, and a way to expel and emote my deepest feelings. It is a spiritual practice for me.

In many ways my original music is an exercise in self exploration as well.

I come primarily from indigenous, latino, and European ancestry. This is a part of myself I’m still learning about and discovering. Music is a way for me to express my identity, the parts I know and the parts I have yet to discover.

I got to where I am today through an extreme dedication to practicing my craft coupled with a passion that at times allows me to completely let go in the music. I spent thousands of hours, listening to music and practicing. The process is still ongoing and it won’t stop.

When you have a passion hard work can be effortless, there are still moments when it can be hard to find motivation.

Another aid in my success is my pursuit of mentorship and advice from elder and more experienced musicians.

I do my best to be outgoing and personable while subsiding my fears of judgment or rejection that might deter me from reaching out to artists.

I would like the world to know that love, compassion, self expression and the pursuit of knowledge are of the upmost importance. Be wary of that which distracts from your passion and goals.

Our purpose is to serve our gifts tirelessly so when our lives come to a close we can offer something to our people that may help them in their journey.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The meadowlark Monday night jam session would be sure to entertain my friend. I would certainly take my friend to Domo, a wonderful Japanese restaurant with a gorgeous outdoor garden.

Next on the itinerary would be the Denver Modern art Museum.

In the evening I would take my friend to Dazzle for a concert.

The flat irons would be a must for hiking fun and perhaps lair o’ the Bear too!
The Denver museum of nature and science would be a very stimulating outing as well!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many special mentors in my life, I’m truly blessed. My mother and father Chuck and Patricia Jones, Director of Bands at DSA Dave Hammond, directors of Colorado Conservatory for the Jazz Arts of Chris and Paul Romaine, Band leader and educator Jon Romero, Michael Weaver, Ron Wright, Vlad Girshevich, Laura Newman, Ellyn Rucker, Jon Hayden, Marcus Firillo, Danny Meyer, Adam Larson, Daryl Gott, Hugh Ragin, Brad Goode, Harold Summey, Joe Anderies, Vincent Herring and many other patient, giving, and gracious people.

Website: https://www.ricojonesmusician.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ricojonesmusic/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rico-jones-726ab9b1

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/ricojonessaxophist/

Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/user/ricojones197

Other: https://m.soundcloud.com/rico-jones-9 https://www.rmpbs.org/blogs/rocky-mountain-pbs/sloans-lake-front-porch-jazz-rico-jones/

Image Credits
https://instagram.com/adigitalvision?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= @adigitalvision Jack Sasson photography