J.ournal
Jeremy Nelson whose professional name is J.ournal is a spoken word poet/artist. He is originally from Montana and currently resides in the Los Angeles area with his wife and two kids. He is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was introduced to the gospel in his early 20’s by his wife (girlfriend at the time) and was baptized after a few years of extensive discussions and study. He currently serves as a Seminary teacher.
He says, “If you can figure out what it is that J.ournal does, please let him know – he’s still trying to figure out what to call it.” There is no existing category for spoken word poetry combined with musical backdrops ranging from acoustic rock to hip-hop to epic cinematic scores. He takes these unique compositions and turns them into what he calls video poems which are visual expressions of the lyrical and musical content. One of his videos was viewed over 13 million times on Facebook.
His topics vary widely, but they all share a core message of hope, perspective, and faith. In his own words:
I believe that we’re spiritual beings having human experiences. So, I try to view everyday life through a lens of eternal truth, as far as I understand it. It’s that search for understanding that inspires me to write poetry – to try and make sense of this human condition we all share. I like to work with musicians from different genres to help create soundscapes that enhance the atmosphere and help bring out what I’m trying to say. And I like to put my poetry to pictures… moving pictures, because it’s more moving.
J.ournal is always open to collaboration ideas. So, if you are a musician of any genre, you can contact him through his social media channels. His latest release, a stirring collaboration with independent American composer, pianist, violinist, and concert performer, Jennifer Thomas, is called “Nine Twelve.” He says, “I don’t know how to fix all the problems in America. But I do know that we can find a lot more common ground if we can be better to each other, and I know it’s possible because I’ve seen it. Remember 9/12?”
In the powerful video “Nine Twelve,” his poetry is intricately weaved with piano and lush orchestration against a compelling video backdrop that could be described as Saving Private Ryan meets La La Land. The lyrics and music combine to bring forth a moving message of compassion and unity amidst the current toxic political climate in America. The song is available for download on iTunes.
You can also help J.ournal create more videos by supporting him through his Patreon page.
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Recent Posts
J.ournal’s Spoken Word Rendition of “The Little Drummer Boy”
The sounds of Christmas permeate the airwaves during this delightful time of year with traditional carols being sung and played. Perhaps one of the most beloved carols is “The Little Drummer Boy.” In the lyrics, the singer relates how, as a poor young boy, he was...
Jennifer Thomas and J.ournal Poems – “Nine Twelve, ” Lest We Forget
On the momentous day of 4 July 2017, Americans everywhere will be celebrating the 241st anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence - a priceless historical document that grants citizens of the United States of America certain inalienable rights that...