#MusicExchange: Jesse Clegg
12 Nov 2019
At least 18 months since his last single, platinum-selling artist Jesse Clegg is back on the music scene with his hot new track, "Let It Burn".
The catchy, upbeat pop-inspired song makes an exciting variation from his acoustic rock sound.
“As a songwriter, I enjoy the challenge of experimenting with my sound. The vibe of this song was exciting to me because it combines my writing style with a really bold and unpredictable production,” says Clegg.
“Let It Burn” is a product of his time spent in Los Angeles – writing and recording music with different musicians and producers. The song explores embracing fear.
“I wanted to write a song about embracing the things that you fear. In the context of a relationship, there are always these moments when you have to make yourself vulnerable to the other person and let them into your life and we all have fears of being hurt or disappointed. Ultimately, it’s about that moment of conquering your doubts and embracing an experience or a relationship wholeheartedly,” he says.
The official music video for "Let It Burn", featuring a host of South African celebs such as Abby Nurock, Francois van Coke, Jack Parow, Khan Morbee (Parlotones), Kim Engelbrecht, Odelle de Wet, Ross Learmonth (Prime Circle) and Sjava, was released last week 7 November 2019.
I caught up with him to chat more.
When are you happiest?
In the studio – writing new music.
What does music mean to you?
It’s my most important way to express my feelings, ideas and perspectives.
What drives you: ego or humility?
A bit of both.
Any funny moments on stage?
Having a bra thrown at me during a show.
Your heroes?
My family.
What is your most treasured possession?
My home studio.
It’s your round, what are you drinking?
Double Jameson on the rocks.
Nicknames?
J-Crag.
If you were not a musician, what would you do?
I have a law degree and honours in English literature, so I suppose I’d be a lawyer or a writer.
Pick five words to describe yourself?
Introspective, passionate, ‘control freak’, curious, loyal.
Whom do you love?
My family and friends (and my cats).
Favourite fashion garment ?
Leather jacket.
What is your fear?
Change or failure.
Happiness is?
Chilling on the couch with my cat.
On stage, I tend to?
Lose myself in the music.
Where would you like to be right now?
In the studio.
Do you do charity work and, if you do, what do you do?I have worked with the Smile Foundation, Paws R Us, The Click Foundation and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. I have played shows to raise money and awareness and I’ve attended events for them.
Wishes and dreams?
To keep making music that connects with and inspires people.
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