Jack Landess Finds Purpose Through Music, One Listener at a Time

For Jack Landess, music was never supposed to become the plan.

(Jack Landess)

Growing up in a small town in Ohio, Landess spent much of his early life surrounded by a culture where sports often overshadowed the arts. His journey into music began during his junior year of high school. Stepping away from basketball during the COVID-19 pandemic, Jack began to focus on recording, producing over 300 demos in a single summer. After finishing high school, he moved to Tennessee to study music business and production at Belmont University. What started out as an experiment slowly turned into a career, one that isn't built around chasing popularity but around building something honest.

The Nashville-based artist and producer is also preparing to open for EauClaire on his tour in August with performances in Tennessee and Springfield, Missouri, while also working on new music.

From Producer to Artist

Interestingly, Landess never expected to become the face behind the music.

Initially focused on producing for other musicians, he only began performing after receiving positive feedback from close friends during his freshman year of college. That encouragement gradually shifted his perspective and helped him embrace life as both an artist and producer.

Jack's creative process remains deeply collaborative. Whether it's music videos, photography, or visual storytelling, Landess gives collaborators the freedom to create rather than controlling everything himself.

"I kind of let directors do whatever they want," Jack Landess explained. "I trust people creatively."

Influenced by British Artists

Jack's sound isn't hard to trace. Inspired by bands like Foals, Far Caspian, and Day Wave, which play a huge role in shaping his musical identity.

"Anything that sounds super washed out, where you can't hear what they're saying—that's my favorite thing ever."

Ironically, those influences have led to an audience overseas.

"Most of the people reaching out to me are from England," Landess said. "It makes sense because my music is so influenced by British bands."

Betting on Himself

Like many artists who are nearing college graduation, Landess found himself questioning whether music could realistically become a career. The safer option was getting a traditional job and moving on.

Instead, one conversation changed everything. After graduating, his girlfriend encouraged him to trust the work he had already built rather than abandoning it for stability.

"She told me, 'You produce music. You're already an artist. Trust your gut.'"

That encouragement ultimately convinced him to dedicate himself to music production and artistry while balancing part-time work at a songwriting company.

Looking back, Landess says he isn't sure he would've taken that leap without her support.

Music Isn't an Escape...

One of the most revealing moments during the interview came when we talked about mental health. While many other artists describe music as an escape, Landess sees it completely differently.

"I actually feel the opposite," he said. "Music is where I bring my problems."

Rather than avoiding difficult emotions, songwriting has become a place where he sits with them.

"It's almost like a prayer. I can sit down and say, 'This is what I'm thinking about,' and get it out of my system."

Being vulnerable is one of Jack's key strengths, allowing his work to connect with listeners.

Defining Success Differently in the Digital Era

In today's music industry, success is often measured by streams, algorithms, and follower counts. Landess isn't interested in that definition.

"If I can connect with just one listener, then that's the goal."

For him, creating something that honestly reflects his emotions matters more than any statistic.

"Success is making something that accurately portrays what I'm feeling or thinking and being able to connect with someone else."

In an era where people are constantly chasing viral moments, Jack is focused on perfecting his craft.

Upcoming Projects & Shows

Landess is also preparing for his August shows opening for EauClaire while simultaneously finishing his first full-length album titled Golden Sun. As Jack continues to grow and invest in his music career, you can expect more dream pop and shoegaze sounds.

See Jack Landess & EauClaire Live

Purchase Tennessee Here: Ticket Link

Purchase Springfield, Missouri Here: Ticket Link