Meet Jenessa Noland | Musician

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

Hi Jenessa, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work/life balance for me used to be school then gigs. This is when I was under the excellent instruction of Internationally recognized instructor Roger Letson. Then it was job then gigs. Then it was raising 2 kids, no time for gigs for many years. Nobody can prepare one for parenthood. The immediate loss of personal time is shocking. Personal passions, and sleep become a luxury. But my kids getting older has allowed me more time to pursue my passions.

My continuous and most important balancing act is working on the establishment of my kids and my own future of becoming whole human beings while also nurturing their and my music goals.

How do I think about balance:

I think of balance as frustratingly unattainable at times. I entertainin the idea of teaching myself to Lucid Dream so I can get stuff done while I’m sleeping. Ha! Kinda serious 😊

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others:

My big hair, freckles and sense of humor

What you are most proud of or excited about:

In my professional life, I am most proud of my Amy Winehouse Cover Band Project.

How did you get to where you are today professionally.

Lots of hard work coupled with instruction, guidance and support from excellent teachers, family & friends.

Was it easy?

My elementary through college years were easy. I was a sponge, 100% committed to music, learning everything I could as fast as I could. It was easy for many years until life threw in a couple plot twists. Though I never stopped being involved in music, I did take some time away from performing.

If not, how did you overcome the challenges?

We all have challenges. I think as an artist, at least for myself, it can be difficult to stay on track. There are 1,000 creative things I want to do. Overcoming the challenge of over committing has been difficult. I’d say being a perfectionist has really helped me take a step back and be more selective in how I spend my time and narrows down the projects I choose to take on.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way:

1) You never know who’s in the audience! So always do your best.

2) Being early is on time.

3) No explaining or complaining

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story? “Of the wonderful things that you get out of life there are four. And there may not be many, but nobody needs anymore. Baby so it’s truth, honor and happiness and one thing more, meaning only wonderful, wonderful love, that will make it four!” These lyrics are from the jazz standard “Four” written by Miles Davis. Lyrics written by John Hendricks. This song really resonates with me. Four simple things. Truth, Honor, Happiness & Love. I’d like people to know that anything artistic/music wise I do, always comes from a place of truth. My hope is that my artistry sparks a connection or is inspiring in some way to others.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a huge foodie and love a good thrift store. Here are some of my favorite places!

Food:

Versailles Café & Pastries in Encinitas www.v-pastries.com

Mariah’s Restaurant in San Marcos www.mariahswestwind.com

Plan 9 Ale House in Escondido www.plan9alehouse.com

Pine Valley Honey 100% pure Honey U.S. Grade A www.PineValleyHoney.com

Shopping:

Goblin Shark Emporium: in Oceanside, CA www.goblinsharkemporium.com This thrift store/gift shop is AMAZING! And carries jewelry from one of my favorite artists Avery Stone! www.averystoneartwork.com

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It’s difficult to narrow this list…The following people have made and continue to help me in my music journey: My family & friends, Terri Tomlinson friend & consultant, Roger Letson Musical Artist & Vocal Instructor https://cajazz.org/2011-hall-of-fame/roger-letson Musical Artist & Vocal Jazz Instructor, Andy Machin with Bigrock Studios in Escondido www.bigrockstudios.com , Amy Throckmorton vocal teacher with Luminary Arts in San Marcos www.luminaryarts.org , Danny Gonzalez with Swag Wagon Band, Lexi Pulido vocal performer and vocal instructor in San Diego also with Swag Wagon Band www.lexipulido.com , Anastasya Photography in San Diego www.anastasyaphotography.com, Black Rail Kitchen + Bar in Carlsbad www.blackrailkitchen.com , Julianna Latin owner of Julianna Latin Salon in Oceanside www.juliannalatinsalon.com , Patty Graham owner of PGfitness in Oceanside www.pgfitness.com

Instagram: jenessanolandmusic

Facebook: Jenessa Noland – Sowell

Youtube: Jenessa Noland

Image Credits
Anastasya Photography Jenessa Noland Zander Sowell