Musician from Warner Robins Calls Her Style 'Swampicana' | Arts & Culture

Jessie Smith, a 2003 Houston County High graduate and musician, performs in concert Saturday at the Warner Robins Civic Center. The concert starts at 7 p.m. and tickets will be available at the door.

According to a news release, Jessie started studying piano and voice at a young age. Her powerful, soulful style stems from her South Georgia roots. Currently, you can catch her EP, "Song and Dance."

We caught up with Smith via email before her Warner Robins show and she tells us you can expect a "GREAT" time at the concert.

WMAZ: Jessie, tell us what concert-goers can expect for your Warner Robins concert Saturday? Are you currently touring? Where can we see you next?

Jessie: They can expect to have a GREAT time, dancing and clapping to high-energy southern soul songs (including our own rendition of Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter"), being visually entertained with stage decor and lots of movin' and shakin', and being taken on a journey that will make you feel excited and hopeful when you leave. I am currently booking my next tour, and you can catch me in October in Cookeville, TN. More info to come on my website!

WMAZ: How would you describe your music style?
Jessie: My music is swampy, soulful, and southern.  It sounds like you and your family and friends are sitting on a breezy back porch in Louisiana, talking about the ups and downs of life. We've coined a new word for this sort of sound. We call it, "Swampicana."

WMAZ: What is your latest music project?
Jessie: I am currently writing and raising money for my next album that will be done next summer. I am raising money through touring and a website called Kickstarter.com. There, you can see my exclusive blogs and videos, and when you donate, you can receive awesome incentives like merch and concerts! Go to the website, and in the search box, put "Jessie Smith's New Southern Soul Record." It will take you right to it! Or go to my website, jessiesmithmusic.com, and that'll take you to it as well.

WMAZ: Where do you get your inspiration for your lyrics and songs?

Jessie: I'm really drawn to old music, especially slave spirituals and old soul. I get inspiration for my songs from a mixture of my love for that style of music and from being raised in the great state of Georgia and my experiences growing up here. Lyrically, I'm inspired by my own struggles and triumphs, as well the hope I see in the people around me.

WMAZ: Let’s say it’s a perfect rainy day at home. What’s in your speakers?
Jessie: The best music for a rainy day would be a mixture of The Civil Wars, Eric Whitacre, and Patti Griffin.

WMAZ: Do you have any advice for singers and songwriters just starting?
Jessie: Always be open to learn, but only from those you trust. And most of all, never, ever, ever, ever, ever, EVER give up. Ever. Did I say ever? Ever. :)