Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jason Chaffee has developed a deeply personal approach to alternative pop-rock, combining atmospheric production with songwriting that confronts life's more difficult emotional realities. Drawing inspiration from artists including Peter Gabriel, David Sylvian and The Blue Nile, his music balances nostalgic electronic textures with an intimate, reflective sensibility.
His latest single ‘Silence’ explores the emotional weight of everything we struggle to express. Inspired by personal experiences with chronic illness, addiction, recovery and mental health, the track examines the fear of becoming a burden to others and the isolation that can emerge when important feelings remain unspoken.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Even though I started playing the alto sax when I was 10, it was guitar that I instantly fell for when I picked it up at 15 years old. By 16, I was playing “gigs.” Albeit terribly, I was able to chord the songs I listened to.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was raised on the bands of the ’60s and ’70s. I distinctly remember The Last Waltz being on repeat, along with Van Morrison, Talking Heads, and Joni Mitchell. I then discovered “grunge” and fell in love with Pearl Jam. In fact, I learned the basics of solo playing by learning the guitar solo to “Alive.”
What was the first album you remember owning?
Oddly, Kenny G’s G Force. Maybe it was the alto sax playing that inspired my grandmother to buy that for me.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
“The Great Gig in the Sky.”
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not really. I often wait for the motivation to spark and find out right away if I am in the flow state. It’s an unmistakable, amazing feeling where music and words are simply given to you by the universe.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I listen to a lot of ambient music and am an ambient producer myself. In fact, the album that is the response to my upcoming The Weight of the Sky is an ambient release responding to the angst of the first album. To answer the question: HAEVN, Peter Gabriel, and Beck’s new album Ride Lonesome.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
David Gilmour, although he doesn’t use openers.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Having a song affect someone else. Telling my story is essential, and if I can touch another person emotionally, then my job is done.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The jealousy of seeing other artists, or even my friends, excel while I feel like I am treading water. It’s something I think every artist experiences but doesn’t admit. The feelings of defeat and self-criticism are terrible, but they often come from the inner critiic which is of course the harshest critic.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Never stop. Art is mandatory in any form in this world where freedom is at stake, and music is resistance.
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Jason Chaffee's new single 'Silence' is out now. Check it out in the player below.