We had the good fortune of connecting with Jay Erve and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jay, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
My end goal is to use my musical platform to educate. Being a double transplant recipient, I would like to continue advocating for organ donation and work with both donors and the families of recipients. I would love to focus my work in black and brown communities educating people on the life changing benefits of donation. Joining the forces with like-minded organizations through public speaking is high on my priority list by the end of the calendar year.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been creating music for over 30 years professionally. I feel what sets me apart is the humanity in my music, I always want the listener to be entertained but in the process realize that i’m coming with a message as well. My last project was titled “Medicine disguised as Ice Cream” and it was a metaphor for having a catchy, enjoyable sound while still being able to deliver important messages in your art. I’m super excited about my new project this fall and the prospect of writing a book along with advocating.

My dreams have changed over the years, as a kid i always wanted to be a sports journalist/broadcaster. Around the same time, hip hop was starting to heat up across the world and i was swept up in the clever wordplay and catchy beats. Having an affinity for music growing up, I dove in and didn’t know where it would take me. I’ve had the honor of performing for thousands of people and before I knew it, music became my career and obsession. It was not easy but when you are immersed in something it doesn’t seem like work. Once hip hip became big business, this profession started to feel more like a job. i always say its 90% business and 10% music. My biggest challenge was learning the business aspect of making music a career and how to market yourself as an artist and creating a scalable brand. Through research and consulting with more knowledgable people, i was able to slowly but surely become more competent in those areas. It also helps to being those type of people into your organization.

I’ve learned to build relationships and how vital they are to your success in any profession. Also just writing great songs isn’t enough.

I want the world to know that to know that consistency is needed to succeed in this world. You can’t cheat the process. Also my story is still being written. After being given a second chance through organ donation I want to be an inspiration to people from all backgrounds.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First we would start out going downtown to Gold Coast for some shopping. Head over to Navy Pier for a boat cruise and a scenic view of the city from the water. Next day Check out Catch 35 downtown for the best seafood in the city and stop by the Sears tower for a tour. Cap off the weekend with a visit to The Fountain and swing over to catch some music at the Lollapoolooza festival.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
God first and foremost. He has delivered me through turmoil and blessed me beyond belief. My wife has been very instrumental in helping me establish my company CTMG, along with assisting with the branding component. My friends have provided encouragement, support and the motivation that has fueled me to keep pushing to become the best version of myself. It has taken a village for me to be able to continue to chase my dreams, realize my purpose and refine my vision as necessary.

Website: www.charlesandtrimble.com

Instagram: therealjayerve

Linkedin: Charles and Trimble Music Group

Twitter: @jameseternal

Facebook: Jay Erve

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPDC_2OSA76zwHgm9-7Jq-A

Other: jameseternal.bandcamp.com New project titled “Medicine Disguised As Ice Cream”

Image Credits
Laura Kofron

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