We had the pleasure of catching up with rising artist JoDavi, who is making waves with his powerful new single, “I Won’t Go.” With his dynamic vocal range and ability to create resonating songs, JoDavi is inspiring listeners to overcome any obstacle that comes their way.
Often referred to as “Mr. Maestro,” JoDavi infuses his soulful roots with his passion for orchestration, resulting in a unique sound he calls “Cinema-Soul.” Drawing inspiration from genres such as gospel, R&B, reggae, and funk, his music evokes elements of Earth Wind and Fire, the 5th Dimension, and your favorite movie soundtracks.
Having opened for Grammy award-winning artists like India Arie and Anthony Hamilton, JoDavi’s talent has been recognized on notable stages. He has also backed renowned singer Alex Isley and shared the spotlight with Jeremy Passion. With over a dozen albums and singles under his belt, including his latest full-length album, Zion, JoDavi has captivated audiences across the United States, premiering his work in cities such as New York, California, North Carolina, and Georgia.
Now, let’s dive into our interview with JoDavi as we discuss his empowering new single, his unique musical style, and his journey as an artist.
Can you tell us about your journey as an indie musician? What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I’ve always loved movie scores, and music in general. My father taught me how to play and write, and my mother, even though she isn’t a professional musician, used to make up silly songs in the house all the time. That actually taught me about rhyme and rhythm as well.
How would you describe your unique style and sound as an artist? What sets you apart from other musicians?
I’ve come up with my own genre, and it’s called ‘Symphonic Soul.’ It’s soul music, but with echoes of Motown with the strings, horns, bells, and all of the orchestral nature of that era. My engineer calls is Philly Soul which I think it’s also accurate. I also love reggae and afro, and it’s reflected in my music as well; but as a whole, I think it all falls under the category of Soul.
Could you share some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an indie musician and how you overcame them?
The biggest challenge to date is just keeping up with staying connected to everyone. Having to be my own marketer, manager, booking agent, and executive assistant is tiring and not my strong suit, but over the years, I think I’ve managed to have a decent system in place until such a time as I’m able to afford a team around me.
What is your creative process like? How do you approach songwriting and composing music?
It depends on the day. Sometimes I go to the piano with something already on my heart. Usually a phrase is rattling around in me that I have to get out. Other times, I sit and try to be as intentional as possible with searching myself and creating something. I try to be open.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you aim to convey through your music? What inspires your lyrics?
Lately, themes of life and truth. Like meaning, in some of my music, I’ve referenced eugenics, or how abortion has negatively impacted the Black American community. That’s something that always makes my heart sink. That naturally comes through in some of my songs. Others are just themes of redemption and committed love.
What are your long-term goals as an indie musician? Where do you see yourself and your music in the next few years?–
I see myself playing festivals all over the world with my band and orchestra, uplifting hearts and souls and speaking life into them with scripture and music. I am a Christian, and I believe the power of music infused with the Word is the most powerful force we have. I hope that I can bring light in dark places, and do it at a high level in the next few years.
About JoDavi:
Often referred to as “Mr. Maestro,” JoDavi fuses his soulful roots with his passion and schooling in orchestration to create what many call “Cinema-Soul;” a sound that likens to Earth Wind, and Fire, the 5th Dimension, your favorite movie soundtrack, and his background in gospel, RnB, reggae, and funk.
JoDavi has opened for Grammy award-winning artists India Arie, and Anthony Hamilton. He has also backed renowned singer Alex Isley, and has shared stages with Jeremy Passion. As far as his own work goes, JoDavi has released over a dozen albums and singles, including his latest full-length album, Zion, which he has premiered in New York, California, North Carolina, Georgia, and many other parts of the US.
