Owning solo project, breaking stereotypes with an all music background
Jimena Fosado, a musician influenced by an opera rock musical and playing with gurus like Steve Vai and Scott Paige, is about to contribute her big share to the world by becoming much more involved in music. She identifies herself with music and her broken rib is a big proof for that.
How long have you been involved with music?
I've been involved with music all my life. My dad has been playing the piano since he was a kid, so I got my love for music from him. I was surrounded by 80's rock, pop and classical music.
Do you play for any bands? Who? Did you join/form them?
Yes, I have my own solo project. Besides that, I'm part of an opera rock musical, Jesus Christ Superstar, a broadway show in Mexico. I joined in 2019 and it has changed my life, playing in big arenas across Mexico as well as my home town. I auditioned when I was residing in L.A and couldn't let that opportunity go. I've played with Steve Vai, Scott Paige (Sax of Pink Floyd), Plain White T's in High School Nations among other Grammy awarded artists in Latin America. I have also collaborated in Southern rock bands, tribute bands for Lynyrd Skynyrd, etc.
Have you been self-taught or studied music academically?
I started basic chords that my dad taught me, after that I took private lessons and attended music schools, like Musicians Institute in Cali.
Have you composed any songs/albums?
Yes, I have one single out available in all streaming services called 'Chasing the Moment'. Currently, I'm finishing a few more to be released soon.
Do you have any near future or further plans for your music? Whether a project on your own or any other music related collaboration? Where are you going with music?
I have some instrumental music to be released on my own as well as upcoming tours with several artists. So far, I'm trying to balance it all out.
“Music keeps evolving and I think we need to understand and adapt to changes, but if you don't like what rock is nowadays, then make your own!„
Tell us about your favorite musicians/bands. Who were your main influences?
That's a hard one. I have so many. I started with Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, John Petrucci, Andy James, John Mayer, Lamb of God, Intervals, Monuments, Linkin Park, and many pop artists.
What does music mean to you and what are your expectations?
Music is a reality rather than a dream. It helps me to express myself without words. It changes my mood and is the soundtrack of my life. I want to inspire others the way I was inspired.
How do you get inspired to make music?
Sometimes I have my guitar and start to try ideas or sometimes I hear a song and it gets me in a mood with an idea to write about.
How do you see your audience? What do you wanna tell them and what do you expect from them?
I want my audience to be a broad audience. I want to combine different genres and break stereotypes. I want them to feel good and identify with my different songs. I just hope they like my work and feel inspired with it. I want them to be fighters and learn that you can do anything you set your mind to.
Where do you think rock n’ roll is today and where is it going?
Most people think it is dead but I think it has just changed. Music keeps evolving and I think we need to understand and adapt to changes, but if you don't like what rock is nowadays, then make your own! Play what you want to hear!
“Music is a reality rather than a dream. It helps me to express myself without words. It changes my mood and is the soundtrack of my life.„
What are some of the challenges as a musician, especially a female musician?
Trying to prove yourself constantly. Like, it shouldn't matter if you're a boy or a girl. Gender doesn’t matter. It's hard to hear people saying that we get the easy way just for being a girl and that's so not true. It's actually harder and we're still fighting for equality. Sometimes people tend to think that you're not professional or good enough.
Do you believe in paying to see an amateur newly-formed band even though you can pay the same money for a much better performance in town?
I think if the music is good it shouldn't matter. I honestly don't pay attention to credentials, if they sound good and just started, good for them. We need variety.
Do you believe in bad music? If so, what is bad music?
I think that's subjective. What you like, I may not like but I respect it. Unless lyrics are objectifying girls, then I'd rather look away from it.
When and where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Mexico City.
Apart from music, what studies and jobs do you have or have had in the past?
I'm thankful to say I've lived off of music since I started.
“Sometimes people tend to think that you're not professional or good enough.„
What are some of your hobbies (obviously apart from music)?
Racing Go Karts and video games.
Who are your main supporters as an artist and how do they motivate you?
It started with my family and friends, teachers and others, then the people I met in music conventions or concerts I played at. I've built a good relationship with fans over the world which is thanks to social media.
Whose concert that you’ve attended has been the most memorable to you?
So many. I broke my ribs at a Simple Plan concert, that's kind of memorable! I went with my ribs broken to a Megadeth's show and I remember seeing Linkin Park.
Are you the kind of musician who wants to change the world? How?
Yes! I want to change people's lives, inspire, help, make them feel they're not alone and I want to make people happy too! Be a good role model.