On the clock today, Jason Reeves, the midwestern singer/songwriter who regularly duets with Colbie Caillat. He’s our “songs about our feelings” go-to guy, when we’re in the mood to slow it down.

So here’s how it works, we fire off questions, you answer and we post it on the interwebs for all. Should I count you in…

DLT: When did you know you wanted to make music your career?
Jason Reeves: I knew I wanted to write songs when I was 17, but I didn’t know it would become my career. I just knew it was something I had to do.

What was most challenging about breaking into the business?
The most challenging part about breaking in was patience. It always takes longer than you expect. But after that, the hardest part is actually dealing with the insanity of the music business.

What did you do, job wise, while working on getting your music career started?
I used to play at bars in my hometown when I was starting out, and that was enough for me at the time because it actually payed very well. Other than that I’ve always quit my jobs pretty quickly. The only one I kept for a significant time was working with Colbie for her dad when he was archiving analog tape for Warner Bros. Records.

What musical influences do you draw from?
Bob Dylan is my biggest influence, but there are many. Pink Floyd, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Radiohead…and on and on…

What’s the significance of the title, “Cage Birds Set Free?”
The title ‘Caged Birds Set Free’ is a reference to the fact that these songs have been held in the prison of a major label until now and are finally being set free into the world. They have been sitting around for over 2 years and that is insane.

What’s the best think about life on the road?
Life on the road is an unending brilliant crazy adventure and it has taught me a great deal about life and the world. You see things and places and meet people most don’t get to and there are many lessons in that. On the other hand, it scatters your soul and spreads you a bit thin sometimes. I think a balance of being  home or in one spot at least is very important.

You collaborate with Colbie Calliat on this record, who’s your dream collaboration?
I love Colbie. She’s my favorite person to sing with. But I’d like to work with a lot of people, so many it’s hard to narrow it down. I’d say Eminem or Brandi Carlile or James Taylor would be amazing.

What’s your favorite internet site for news?
I try my best not to pay attention to the news actually. There are so many lies and distractions these days, I try to get the necessary information through the filter of my friends for the most part.

Coffee or tea in the morning?
Definitely tea in the morning. I take tea very seriously and the whole ritual is has become a very important part of my life over the past few years.

What’s your favorite at Thanksgiving?
My favorites are stuffing and pumpkin pie. Crazy delicious.

What was it like at Thanksgiving in Iowa?
Thanksgiving in Iowa is cold outside but warm inside. The people of the midwest are so wonderful and I’m blessed to be from there. I love the time I get to spend at home.

Get a free download from the new “Caged Birds Set Free” by clicking here. CD now available at iTunes.

Photo by Jeff Hackbarth for LiveMusicPhotos.net

Tweet