Let's go over all of the reasons why someone like me is not likely to be signed.

I'm a black singer songwriter/rock vocalist in a musical genre dominated by whites.

I have no fan base. I have no glowing press reviews to share. I am not an American; I have actually spent almost all of my life as a struggling musician in the Caribbean – a place where most people don't give a damn about rock music. I have recently moved to Tucson, Arizona to pursue my Master's degree at the University of Arizona.

And yet...

My songs defy easy categorization. Reggae vibes. Caribbean flavors. U2 style wanderlust. Americana. Even country.

Given the chance, the resources, I can make a statement in a music world now devoid of poetry, substance and magic.

I have the voice. I have the look. I have the songs. I still believe. And the music world sorely needs another Cinderella story.

Biography

Biography


Let's go over all of the reasons why someone like me is not likely to be signed.

I'm 34. That's already middle aged in a youth obsessed music industry.

I'm a black singer songwriter/rock vocalist in a musical genre dominated by whites.

I have no fan base. I have no glowing press reviews to share. I have spent almost all of my life as a struggling musician in the Caribbean – a place where most people don't give a damn about rock music. A place few Americans have any intimate knowledge of.

My songs are difficult to define. There are elements of rock, folk, reggae, blues, latin, and even soul in my music. Definitely not an asset in an industry and a society that tends to think inside of the box. Simple packages are, after all, easier to sell.

And yet...

Thirty four isn't old – its mature. Kids are as likely to love more mature artists if the music matters. Older acts continue to be forces in the pop music arena, and not all of their fans are 'geriatrics'. The kids are still lining up to see U2, Madonna and Dave Matthews. They don't care how old these guys are – kids care about the music. In the end, its all about the music.

Being a black singer-songwriter/rock vocalist is not as outlandish as it seems. Ever heard of Lenny Kravitz? I don't see my unique nature as being a curse – rather, it is a blessing. It can help me stand out and hold me above the competition.

I currently reside in Tucson, Arizona. I have nothing left to lose. This is my last stand. My last great reach for the elusive dream. To make a record with a great producer. With great musicians. To see one of my songs scale the charts.

I still believe.

Malo Jones