For those of you who follow the music scene in SecondLife,
you really need to attend the Monthly SL Enquirer Singer Songwriter Open Mic
Competition. These competitions attract
the best of the best, some of whom are new to the SL music scene, and others
who are proven veterans of the game.
This last month’s winner, Jesika Wirefly, brings her own distinctive
sounds to the SL Music scene, and was recognized as the Top Performer during
the SL Enquirer’s monthly event. I was
able to catch up with Jesika in the midst of a VERY busy performance schedule,
and she agreed to sit down and chat with me about her experiences with the
contest, and as a musician in Second Life in general.
Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB): So, Jesika, Congratulations on your win.
It was well deserved. Thank you for agreeing to chat with me.
To begin with, how long have you been performing your music, and at what
sorts of venues?
Jesika Wirefly (JW)
I have been part of the SL community for a while now but not always
active. When I started SL; I sang for about 2 years. I had to take a break from
SL due to Real life for about 9 years. When I returned, we had MESHH!! ... and
boy, that was a huge learning curve. Since I have been back, I have been
singing for about 4 years now. As for Venues, those vary and can depend
on bookings. For example, whether they want a one-time performance or bi
weekly. I personally prefer a casual venue.
JB: Who were your music idols, and
those who most influenced your musical style?
JW: Oh, I love
Jazz and Blues... from Etta James, Amy Winehouse, Beth Hart, Natalie Cole,
Corrine Bailey Rae, Shirley Bassey... that’s to name a few. Honestly, I love
most genres and can give you my version of it.
JB: What was
the inspiration for the songs you sang at the contest, and why did you choose
those particular songs?
JW: I sang my
favorite song, Gravity by Sara Barielles. This song is my feels song. It
just resonates with me and my experiences. Then I sang I see Red. just
to give them some sassy power. This song is my sister, Baileys's favorite song.
JW: I am not sure
how to describe what I do as I sing such a variety of songs. I look for
different tracks and listen to different styles. When I perform, I put my heart
into it ... I sing with my soul and my emotions and I can only hope that is
what shines through.
JB: Are there
any truly landmark performances you can recall? “Best Memories” of performing,
both in RL and in SL?
JW: In RL, I
remember when I was kid and we joined a talent show as a family… We did the 12
days of Christmas. It was four of us and we had such an amazing time trying to
catch each other on the next day of Christmas. I think it was just about the
fun of it!
In SL it was my first show after coming back... I had just purchased a new
mixer and mic... and then my friend Sully was like hey... we have a
cancellation at Zoffee's. Can you come? I said what?... I haven't
practiced or anything and he was like... “You don't need practice ... I promise!
Well, I went and the experience was amazing! I still perform at Zoffee's
every other Saturday evening - 4 years later.
JB: How did you
take the news when they first announced your name as the winner?
JW: I was
definitely surprised as there was a lot of talent that evening! It was most
definitely an honor. Thank you again for the opportunity.
JB: Jesika,
there are lots of budding musicians in SecondLife. What have you found it takes
to be a successful musician these days?
JW: It definitely
takes patience. This is not something that takes off right away, if you are
looking for an instant audience. You need to be able to talk with your
audience and engage them. Let them know how special they are and how much you
appreciate their time and support!
JB: Do you have
any social media sites that folks can visit to see more of you and your work?
JW: Yes,
I have my Soundcloud, Discord and Facebook where anyone can connect or follow
me on. I have posted the links below for anyone who would like to take a look
along with some YouTube Videos of me singing in various Venues.
- ·
https://soundcloud.com/jesika-227851077/
- · https://discord.gg/XEPcBjfAzN
- · www.facebook.com/groups/wired4you/
- · https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mu7xJlIKEVc
- ·
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QN0aI8lRb3c
- ·
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipaQmYj6d9A
- · https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ln-VG387LwE&list=RDLn-VG387LwE&start_radio=1
- · https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrafbZl3h7k&list=RDhrafbZl3h7k&start_radio=1
JB: Do you post
your performance schedule for anyone who wants to catch one or more of your
gigs?
JW: I post my Gigs
in my Discord and FB Groups along with many Inworld Live Music Groups. I will
link my Group for anyone who would like to keep Up-to-Date with my Shows and my
Calendar, which is always updated and reliable.
https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=jesikawirefly.sl@gmail.com&ctz=America/New_York/
secondlife:///app/group/062bcdf7-c120-4470-25ca-3ed111f1451a/about
Also, anyone is welcome to come to a show and Subscribe for
info regarding performances if they prefer that to joining a group :)
JW: If you're
interested in Jesika singing at your venue or private party, please contact my
manager, Baileyhope or me directly, Jesika Wirefly.
So, there you have it Folks. Jesika is a proven talent in the SL Music Scene, and if you are looking for some great music from a truly inspired singer, I most highly recommend that you catch her act. Her ability to mesmerize and audience, along with her dulcimer-sweet voice and powerful mastery of the lyrics is guaranteed to leave you wanting more at the end of her set. I highly encourage you to click on the links above, find a venue of your choice, and go. This woman is guaranteed to knock your socks off, so I recommend you take a spare pair with you when you go. You are gonna love this lady. And when you go, tell ‘em Josh sent ya. You’ll be so glad you did.
Be there! Aloha!
JB
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