For this month’s member spotlight, step into the vibrant world of jazz singer and guitarist James Apollo and his band, The Apollo Trio, where jazz’s timeless allure converges with modern pop’s contemporary flair. He offers insights, anecdotes, and sage advice garnered from his experiences as a professional musician, all while shedding light on how GigSalad has positively impacted his career. Read on to find out more about James and his GigSalad success story!
Becoming a Jazz Musician
James Apollo’s musical journey has led him to a unique place in the industry. Recalling whether there was ever a doubt in his mind that he would be a musician, he said, “For me, it was never a question of what I would do; it was only a question of how I would do it. Now that last part took a little time…”. After years of playing worldwide with bands in the “lowest of the lowdown clubs,” he’s now performing in prestigious venues and for high-end private events.
The band’s performances are a captivating blend of modern pop and classic jazz, a sound that is truly their own. Regarding the band’s unique sound, James said, “…I’ve always had a love for the kind of music we play, but developing our sound was something I tried, tested, tweaked, and really honed.” With a unique sound, it can sometimes be a challenge to appeal to a large audience, but James understands how to adjust to an audience without compromising his craft, “We don’t play anything we don’t love, but there are a few things that I keep in the rehearsal room because I think I might be the only one who loves ‘em.”
It’s no secret that the music industry can be demanding, but James hasn’t lost sight of what keeps his spirit alive and looking forward to the next gig: “Some days, I think it’s a face in the crowd, or a kind word, or thunderous applause, but really, it’s none of those things because we’d still be out playing if none of them were there. We do what we do because there is an instinctual drive to create beauty. This is just the best way I know how.”
James’s GigSalad Journey
James joined GigSalad in 2015 with The Apollo Trio and has steadily used the platform to land high-end gigs nationwide. In answering our member spotlight questions, he shared how GigSalad has impacted his career and provided some tips for those new to the platform.
Making Connections
GS: How has GigSalad impacted your career as a musician?
JA: GigSalad is the best at what it does: connecting wayfaring musicians and those in search. It’s like a very niche personal ad — Lonely ears seeking upstanding gentlemen in suits for musical rendezvous.
Standing Out
GS: How do you distinguish yourself from other jazz bands?
JA: We’re just honest about what we love, where we excel, where we’ll be a great fit, and where we won’t. Also, I don’t play too many notes.
🤓 Read this: Marketing Tips to Stand Out From the Competition
Memorable Moments
GS: Have you had any particularly memorable gigs or experiences due to GigSalad that have left a lasting impression on you?
JA: I remember the first show we booked on GigSalad. It was for a major shoe company (yeah, that’s the one). I started to realize that this cockamamie idea to be a musician might actually work. And everyone was just so nice.
Words of Wisdom
GS: If you could give ONE piece of advice to someone considering joining GigSalad, what would it be?
JA: Never be the cheapest; always be the best. Oh, and get good with tie knots. Nobody loves a clip-on.
🌟 Looking for more inspirational success stories? Check out last month’s Member Spotlight: Meet Aerialist Malin Bergman
From the lows of dingy clubs to the highs of major gigs, James’ success story is a testament to the power of determination, passion, and a good tie-knot. James said, “When you find a great partner, everything is such a joy.” We couldn’t agree more and look forward to many more joyful years of partnership. Keep on swinging, James — the stage is yours, and the world is listening!
Matt Holland is a Customer Happiness Agent at GigSalad. With 10+ years of experience performing as a jazz drummer, he has gained insights into the life of a gigging musician as well as what makes an event go off without a hitch. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, cooking, and watching the newest TV shows with his wife.