Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Jeremy Roske

Singer-songwriter Jeremy Roske had a near-death experience when he was struck by lightning. That incident gave Jeremy a new lease on life, not only as a man but also as an artist. Following that event, Jeremy made it his life’s purpose to heal the world through his music and spread positivity, which he clearly has done with his latest single, “A Little Love.” Pop Culturalist caught up with this rising star to learn more about his career, his new single, and what’s ahead.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Jeremy: I wrote my first rap song when I was twelve years old as a part of a school assignment. The song spoke to issues of polluting, recycling, and working together to make a difference on the beautiful island of Maui, where I grew up. I got the chance to perform that song for hundreds of people, and at that moment, I realized my passion and love for music.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Jeremy: I would have to say that life itself is my greatest teacher and influence. Every encounter and experience makes its way into my music. I think my path as a musician is a little different because I never got fixed on one genre or style. My music is continually evolving, and I look for inspiration all around me. With that said, the most significant influence has been people like Bob Marley, Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel, and Bobby McFerrin, to name a few. I am impacted by artists whose music opens people’s hearts and minds and makes the world a better place.

PC: You’ve done it all in your twenty-five-year career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out to you?
Jeremy: When I was touring the US at sixteen, I had a near-death experience getting hit by lightning. This was a major turning point in my life and significantly impacted who I am as a person and artist. It was a moment of awakening, and I realized we are much more than just our physical bodies. This insight changed the way I see the world and show up in life.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “A Little Love.” What was the inspiration behind the song?
Jeremy: I wrote “A Little Love” as a response to the intensity we are facing. I believe that little acts of love can create a tidal wave of positive change. This song is a reminder to start small and watch how a little flame can grow into a powerful fire of healing and transformation.

PC: This song is shining a light in a time when there’s a lot of divide, injustice, and violence. Does that bring a different weight/meaning to this song?
Jeremy: Absolutely! I feel we need more uplifting music now more than ever. When I wrote “A Little Love,” I didn’t know the type of impact it would have. People from all over the world are sharing how they have been touched by the music. As an artist, this is what it is all about. My music has never been about me but about humanity and how we can heal wounds of the past and move forward into a brighter future.

PC: Of all the songs you’ve released, if you had to pick one that best encompasses who you are as an artist, what would it be and why?
Jeremy: I would have to say my song “Vessel” really encompasses who I am as an artist for many reasons. “Vessel” is about my ego getting out of my own way so my soul can shine. This is a constant practice—working to shift from performing to sharing from the heart. Nothing to prove, no need to posture or project some glamorous version of myself. It’s about keeping my heart open in playful service and letting the music flow through me.

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the rest of the year hold for you?
Jeremy: Wow, that is a great question. October is gearing up to be a significant month. I am releasing my album, Heartstorm, on the 30th, and around the same time, we expect the birth of our first child. I know my whole world is about to change, and I feel so blessed and grateful to become a father. It is so exciting. This year has been filled with mystery and unexpected twists and turns. I have learned that I have no idea how it’s all going to go, so I am taking it one day at a time.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Jeremy: Andrea Bocelli.

PC: First album you bought?
Jeremy: R.E.M.’s Out Of Time.

PC: First concert you attended?
Jeremy: Santana.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Jeremy: Pink Floyd’s The Wall. I had never gone on such a journey with an album. Each time I listened to it, I heard more and went more in depth. It was so emotional, powerful, and message driven. It gave me a taste of what is possible with music and the stories that can be expressed.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Jeremy: Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Jeremy: Bose noise-cancelling headphones.

To keep up with Jeremy, follow him on Instagram and Spotify.

Photo Credit: Grace Oh