A Chat with J Terrell (03.09.25)
Known for pushing the boundaries of sound, poetic lyricism and passionate melodies, J Terrell creates music appealing to all audiences. We speak with them about their new album, Cowboy Tango, what music means to them, recommended songs, and much more.
OSR: Cliché, but what made you decide to pursue a music career? What drew you to music?
J Terrell: I have always been involved with and surrounded by music. I have been singing for a very long time, all the way up into and past my school years.
OSR: What inspires you to make music?
J Terrell: I am inspired by the audience’s experience of music. I am excited to be a part of one of the best creative processes audiences can enjoy.
OSR: You just released your debut album, Cowboy Tango. What can you tell us about it? Is there a particular backstory or theme?
J Terrell: Cowboy Tango is an auditory journey full of unexpected twists and turns. These are songs that are unexpected dance partners. I am so excited to not only share my experience and perspective, not only from an honest but also from a fun and more exaggerated perspective. It is light and familiar but also brand new.
OSR: I know many musicians say they wouldn’t change anything about their work. Is there anything you’d like to change about Cowboy Tango?
J Terrell: While I have made it known to my immediate circle that I am looking at a Cowboy Tango rerelease, I was pretty intentional with all the pieces. I guess I might make it longer, most of all.
OSR: What do you hope people take from your music?
J Terrell: Light-heartedness. I do my best to have the fun be felt throughout the album.
OSR: What does music mean to you?
J Terrell: Music is the stream alongside the path we have to walk, you can stop to be refreshed or to reflect, but you can also see where you’ve been and where you might go.
OSR: If you had to introduce your music to a new listener, which song would you recommend?
J Terrell: While I wouldn’t say any of my songs are the same, I would recommend ‘Odyssey’. It’s the most honest song on the album, which is why it’s in the middle.
OSR: What advice do you have for upcoming musicians?
J Terrell: Music is a great way to show up in a new way. So be excited to surprise yourself with what you can do.
OSR: What can we expect from J Terrell in the future?
J Terrell: There are so many projects currently underway like a promo project coming soon, and even attempting a fun, spicy and rocky song in time for the fall holiday.
OSR: Do you have a message for our readers?
J Terrell: From my heart to the stars, thank you for reading my Q and A about my project, Cowboy Tango. I dream and hope wholeheartedly that my music finds you if it is meant to be with you. And if it does, I hope you enjoy it and share it with those you care for. This is an album for all under the sun
Many thanks to J Terrell for speaking with us. Find out more about J Terrell on their Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
