This year is finally the year when JRDN, also known as Jordan Croucher, can have it all. The Canadian R&B artist has had a big hit with the single "U Can Have It All" from his new album, IAMJRDN, and he's touring the country to spread the word. He will be performing with Danny Fernandes November 27 at Holly's in Yorkton.
The new record has been called a second debut for Croucher, as it has seen a big change in style from his first album "No Dress Code." He credits the change to growth as a musician.
"My first record, I did with Classified, and he's a really hip hop and rock influenced producer. When I hooked up with Kuya, my new producer, the sound was completely different. Working on an album with them for three years, we grew together," Croucher says.
Far from an overnight success, the work behind the album took three years. Taking the time to really work on the album and polish the results is something Croucher feels is necessary.
"With music, you have to take your time. Some people like to rush things and put out albums quickly, but when you take your time you can really tell. For me, especially, I can tell a difference between the quality and the sound of the music," Croucher says.
The results of the recording have been positive for Croucher, resulting in an album which he describes has being everything he could have ever wanted. Even so, the first single taking off and consistently hitting a high position on the Canadian charts has come as a surprise.
"We put the song out, and I wasn't sure if it was going to do as well as it's done. I'm truly blessed. I always believed I would have the opportunity to reach this position, it was just a matter of time. But, to come out with the first record and have it do so well, it's just amazing," Croucher says.
The successful release of the single has put Croucher in the company of some long time heroes, something which he feels is an honor.
"To be mentioned with the likes of Usher, Cee-Lo and Trey Songz, those guys are Grammy nominated or Grammy winning artists... I always pictured myself as being on the same level as those guys, and I still have a long way to go of course, but to have it with my first single to be mentioned with those guys it just amazing," Croucher says.
The tour in support of the new album is seeing Croucher moving constantly, hitting a new city almost every night. Croucher is thrilled with the opportunity, because he believes it's the best way to find new fans.
"Some people who haven't heard my music will get to hear it for the first time, and that's the best part about going on the road and going on stage. Being able to touch people you wouldn't normally get to and who would probably never hear your music."
The change to perform across the country is why Croucher says he makes music. He says the stage is where the music really comes alive.
"I live for the stage, that's why I do it. I love performing... Some people, they might hear the record on the radio, but when you see it live and you hear it live, you know that I am actually pushing the vocals from the bottom of the stomach. You get a different feel for it, and they buy into it a little more and believe in it a little more when you see it live right in front of you," Croucher notes.
The show will take place at Holly's on November 27. Tickets are available at the door.
