Hailing from West Michigan, singer-songwriter Joe Jenneman has come back to his roots as an acoustic storyteller. After being named a finalist in American Songwriter’s ‘Road Ready’ contest, and one of EARMILK’s ‘Artists to Watch’ for 2025, the Nashville based writer, producer, and guitarist intends to fulfill expectations and keep listeners satisfied with a string of releases throughout the year.
Describe your music with three objects.
A second-hand guitar, a bottle of whiskey, and a locked away memory.
How do you feel about the local music scene?
I absolutely love Nashville. I moved towards the end of 2024, and already know it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. There are more talented musicians per capita in Nashville than anywhere on this planet, there’s more live music per square mile than anywhere on this planet, and the people are here because they genuinely want to be. Of course there’s jaded folks just chasing the limelight, but they stick out like a sore thumb against the general mix of us who genuinely LOVE music. The scale is tipped in a bit of an opposite direction compared to other music towns *cough* *cough* (LA)
What inspired you to choose the title “The Underneath” for your new EP?
Besides the title track off the record being probably my favorite of the bunch, I really felt like that title encompasses me as an artist. I definitely feel like an underdog and have started embracing that identity. I’ve also always been one to write about the less shiny subjects…so it just felt right.
What are your goals for the next year? Any upcoming projects or releases we should look out for?
EP number 2 is currently wrapping up. It’s a little different than “The Underneath”. I guess the songs, messages, etc., are in the same vein, but production wise there’s a bit more rock and roll swagger to it. These are all new songs I’ve written since the move to Nashville, and with the help of my co-producer and pal Connor Robertson, I think we found a special sound.
In addition to releasing music consistently, I’m trying to play as many shows as possible. I’ve had the privilege of playing The Basement East, and Cannery Hall in the past month or so, and have a big time itch to play more shows…maybe even hit the road.
Listen to Joe Jenneman’s EP “The Underneath” today on Spotify and Youtube.
“If you’ve lived in a major city, chances are a substance addicted homeless person has approached you and attempted to tell their life story…but have you ever stopped to listen? Due to the rollercoaster of a life I’ve had personally, I’ve found myself on the receiving end of these conversations countless times. I’d become a qualified vessel to tell such a tale, and one night while I was wrestling with Covid-induced night sweats, it all came pouring out of me. “The Underneath” explores an individual’s path to a fully broken-down state, the emotions that come with such a journey, and the vices used to cope. The hardest part of homelessness is the isolation and loneliness…I hope this song encourages people to listen to a stranger’s story every now and again, and show compassion to all who we encounter.”
Action Cat Zine 
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