Jonathon Robins
Atlanta-based artist Jonathon Robins unveiled his new single “Dreams” on July 26th.
Written by Robins and produced by Harper James, the ballad is about the inner world that goes on while pursuing your deepest passions.
“Dreams” delivers a heartfelt message showcasing Robin’s emotional and soulful vocals.
The Georgia-native released his debut EP Trouble in 2016. Along with his original music, Robins has been covering numerous songs on his Youtube channel and has garnered a great amount of listeners throughout the years.
Working closely with Brooklyn-based producer/artist Harper James, the singer/songwriter is offering personal and relatable songs.
“Dreams” is now available worldwide.
Photo credit: Shellie Stark
Introduce yourself - where are you from?
My name is Jonathon Robins and I am a singer-songwriter from Snellville, Georgia, USA. Currently living in Atlanta, Georgia.
What's your story?
I grew up singing on a toy karaoke machine while my parents were at work. I took it very serious and repeated the songs over and over until I could hit the notes. I started writing at age 16 which I took an immediate passion to. I was shy to play my music for friends for the first few years but now here I am. Singing the National Anthem at an Atlanta Falcons football game for 40,000 people got that out of my system real quick.
Could you describe us your childhood a little bit?
I was a very laid back and easy going kid but laughter occupied most of my day if I was with the right friend. Physical comedy will always be the key to my greatest laughs. My cousins and I spent Summers playing music and singing along to the best movies of the 90's. Our Grandmother was a vocal teacher and she would improve songs to almost any mundane daily task. Again, it kept us laughing, and we love her for it.
If you could say something to your younger self, what would you say?
The same thing I tell myself today. "Guard your goodness, and guard your spirit. Your strength lies in those assets."
How would you describe yourself today?
Still laid back but more focused and straightforward. Still waiting for the next great laugh.
When did you start singing?
Very young, I would say around 3 or 4. My Mother use to sing songs from The Sound of Music while she pushed us on our swing set. "Doe, a deer, a female deer. Ray, A drop of golden suuuun!".
Could you tell us about your first experience in the music industry?
My very first performance or experience in the industry was when I won a competition I randomly submitted myself for while in college. The winners were to sing the National Anthem at an Atlanta Falcons football game in front of 40,000 people, and that I did. It was acapella, and it was my very first performance in public. Ever. It was a beautiful experience.
How did your sound and artistry evolve over the years?
It was and is a slow pull inward from all the songs I love to sing and cover, to what comes out organically when I am writing and producing my originals. Harper James from Hard 8 Working Group is my favorite producer/collaborator to date. Find the chords and a melody, and just let it flow out of you. Be you in that moment. That's your sound.
"Dreams" is your latest single. What's the story behind this song?
“Dreams” is about the inner world that goes on while pursuing your deepest passions. It's the head space of feeling alone on the journey but also saluting to yourself with pride for the journey you've taken. It's about overcoming the doubt, with peace.
What did you feel when writing this song?
I felt relief after I wrote this song, as I usually do after most songs because the feeling is now out of my mind and body. It is written, and it is released.
How was it like to work with Harper James on this single? How did you guys meet?
As I mentioned before, Harper James is my favorite producer/collaborator thus far. I met him through a close friend and he produced my first EP, Trouble. Harper is immensely talented and full of creative ideas that he pulls from a spectrum of influences. His line is "Alright, I have a crazy idea", and in my experience, it's usually one that brings the project to life. We are both super open in the creative space and that's how I always prefer it to be. That's where the best art is made.
What message do you want to convey through "Dreams"?
Go after yours. It's worth it. Period. "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll reach the stars."
What's the hardest thing about being an artist? And what is the best part?
The hardest and also the best part is being vulnerable. Sharing your art can be very personal and the best art is the most personal. It challenges you to grow in so many ways.
As an artist, what do you want to accomplish?
I wish to add value to other’s lives through words and music and performances. It's all energy. It's what inspires me that I hope to pass along to others.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
Compassion. I interviewed a hiker once during a music video shoot and that was her answer. Same question and same answer. Compassion.
What biggest life lessons have you learned so far?
Do what scares you. It will cause you to grow in all the areas you probably need most.
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