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

Hi Austin, what do you want your legacy to be?
In the past I had all these secret answers like making the coolest thing or being the coolest guy; doing this constantly for a while now has alleviated me of that mindset. I just want it to be apparent that I helped/cared about people and had a blast doing what I love.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been messing with versions of recording software since I was 13, and playing/singing in bands constantly from ages 9-21. Put those two together and you basically become the designated demo guy for your bands and the friend bands. It just turned out that I really loved making recordings and writing songs that made people excited. When I was 21, I got started making music Belaganas and decided to put all of my resources into working with them and other artists. Doing this full-time has definitely not been a cakewalk so far although I’ve had endless blessings and support along the way. What’s made it so worth the effort thus far (I assume this will stay pretty consistent over time) is the payoff of simply knowing something awesome was made, and what that means to the artist, myself, and everyone who will hear it. That warm, fuzzy feeling is a really good sign.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re coming to visit me in Phoenix, then we have to go out to a show, probably at Crescent Ballroom or The Rebel Lounge. You can get in a vibe at Cobra Arcade Bar and Valley Bar too. But realistically I’ll probably be cooped up in the studio.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It’s about time to give a shoutout to Matthew Keller (producer/mixer) who I was able t0 assist for while I was starting. Multiple people gave me significant boosts in life, and Matt was the one who really set me up for the life I have today. From learning to be a good hang all the way to the technical stuff, I’m a different dude and much more qualified at what I do because of him.

Instagram: @austinparkerjones

Image Credits
Eric Daniels (@ericwdanielss) Jack McMillan (@whitewallsphoto) Raina Virginia (@rainavirginia)

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