By Breanna Bonslater
photo via Jaro

Jaro is a producer from the Humboldt Park neighborhood in Chicago, IL. His family is originally from Vietnam, but he was born in America. While we talk, he always says something that makes you think about the topic on a more profound level.

His earliest musical influence was the piano, which echoes in his production work, through his use of keys. His uncle taught him how to play the piano when he was around five, and in middle school, Jaro picked up a little guitar. He’s part of a group known as Beach Jesus, and his most recent solo project is an EP entitled Le Bleue. Overall, his beats have an eerie sound, and with his use of keyboard and snare drums, you get an electronic vibe from his music.

Breanna Bonslater: What inspires your sound?
Jaro: I’m not really sure how to answer that question because I’m not really sure what my sound is right now. It feels like I’m still trying figure that part out. But I am definitely inspired by a lot of different people. Anybody who’s making any form of art.

Name one person you would like to work with.
Is saying Kanye like too cliche? I feel like if you’re an artist coming out of Chicago in the hip-hop scene you definitely wanna be working with Kanye.

What do you want people to remember most from you as an artist?
Anything really. If people remember anything about me as an artist after my time that will be a blessing within itself. 

What are some of your hobbies besides making music?
I been playing Pokemon Go a lot. But before that I guess I would be rock climbing a lot.   

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced with your music so far?
Not really any. I feel like I am able to work at my own pace. I don’t really have any challenges because it’s not my job. I work a regular job—I don’t depend on this music thing for money. I do it because I really like doing it. I guess the biggest challenge would be like frustration with a song not doing as well, or reaching as far as you would like it to reach.   

Favorite artist? Hip-hop? Outside of hip-hop?
I just really been into producers these days and they don’t really reflect anybody that’s big. Bigger scale, one of my favorite producers is named Zoo. Like R&B, like Frank Ocean. I’m really into indie music—my favorite band is Whitney. The go-to song of all time is “How Deep is Your Love?” by the Bee Gees.   

Where do you hope your music takes you?
I hope music allows me to travel the world… I look at artists whose art allows them to travel and I want that life: The ability to do what you love and travel the world.