Every dreamer is a potential achiever and Jesse Means is a testament to this theory. The fifth-born in an Alabama family of eight, Means had his share of trials and tribulations from a young age. Losing his father at just one, he progressed under the single-handed care of his mother. Monetary shortage was a constant companion, yet he completed his high school education till 11th grade, subsequently moving to Birmingham. Briefly a student at Alabama A&M University, Means ultimately decided to take a leap of faith into a passion that sparked his spirit – of dance and diverse music styles.
A singer since the age of seven, Means found solace in melody, echoing tunes that merged inspiration from Mariah Carey, Ne Yo, Coldplay, Stevie Wonder, Adam Levine, and Usher among others. He echoes the resilience of Mariah Carey’s struggle from a waitress to a renowned singer, in his own journey. With more than 4,000 songs under his belt, Means continues to create music regardless of his age, despite the commercial challenges plaguing the music industry.
His determination and talent did not go unnoticed. 562 Live, a radio station based in Long Beach, California, welcomed his single so enthusiastically that it now features in their prime time line-up. Promising spins on ‘Radio New York Live’ and worldwide are also on the horizon. Despite these successes, Means stays grounded, acknowledging, “Now if only the labels and television would pay attention. A matter of timing, I guess.”
Performing his compositions, along with covers, at local hubs and clubs, and touring in Bulgaria and Cologne, are just a few highlights of his extensive career. Not limited to music alone, he also holds a patent for an invention designed for airport runway safety during inspections.
Years later on February 1, 2024, his single “Be Yourself” will be available across music platforms, coupled with a sci-fi tribute to NASA in its music video. Describing his unique genre as “alternative pop with a chillwave vibe”, his song earned a spot on 562 Live’s regular rotation in its prime-time slot.
Even as his musical career continues, other passions beckon. Means is working on his upcoming book “Above and Beyond” that explores the potential of space exploration and future technological breakthroughs.
With numerous pieces to his credit like “Dark Times” serving as an anthem for the struggling, he extends his talent to literature with books like ‘My Eyes Are Never Closed’. Through his songwriting and literature, Means seeks to inspire others, urging them to remain unapologetically themselves amidst societal constraints.
There’s more in the pipeline for his fans with singles featuring on ‘New Fangeled radio’ in the UK and ‘562 live’ in the U.S.. Keeping his listeners constantly updated, they can access everything from upcoming releases to show announcements on his website.
Despite conquering multiple realms, he sharply channels his energy in one direction – to inspire. He emphasizes, “It’s important to be yourself without having fear or shame and a reason to believe in who you are and to love yourself. This includes, ambition, love, sports, and an individual’s sexuality, race, or faith.”
From tales of perseverance in “Dark Times” to a tribute to individuality in “Be Yourself”, the heart of Jesse’s music resonates throughout his narrative: one of utter belief and relentless determination to transform dreams into reality. With an unshakeable resolve, Jesse Means continues on his journey, crafting harmonies of hope and resilience.
Follow and connect with Jesse Means via his instagram, here.
