Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeffrey Everett.
Hi Jeffrey, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
My name is Jeffrey Everett and I run a design/illustration studio called Rockets are Red. I have been designing in the DC/MD area for over 20 years! I am primarily known for working in the music industry designing high-end screenprinted posters for bands such as Gaslight Anthem, Bouncing Souls, Raveonettes, Alanis Morissette, Lou Reed, Foo Fighters, Social Distortion, and more.
I just released a book titled “Let It Bleed – Twenty Years of Concert Poster Design” which showcases twenty years of award-winning, sought-after concert poster designs. The hardcover book is 444 pages with 350+ posters with a double-sided dust jacket filled with stories and commentary not only from me but from clients and friends like Patton Oswalt, Bryan Kienlen (Bouncing Souls), Brian Fallon (Gaslight Anthem), Scott McCloud (GVSB), with a stellar forward by author Shawna Kenney.
You can check out my work at rockets-are-red.com and more about the book at let-it-bleed.com!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Any job worth doing is not a smooth road. I have been fired from my job, told my work sucks, and on and on. That said, all of these experiences, in hindsight, have taught me valuable lessons on what to do, and more importantly, what not to do. I approach work and relationships with compassion, empathy, and kindness with a focus on early communication and problem-solving.
I will emphasize that focusing on your mental health should be a priority, address the issues you have, and don’t be afraid of getting help and saying you are sorry. Sounds easy but it is not!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I primarily am known for doing high-end concert poster work for bands big and small. I try to create something specific for that band that will capture what makes them special. I have been privileged to work with bands like Bouncing Souls, Foo Fighters, Lou Reed, Gaslight Anthem, Jason Mraz, Raveonettes, Tuscadero, Velocity Girl, and many more.
I also work for The National Institutes of Health designing for public health. The same design issues I address with punk work apply to design for public health – type choices, concept, style, clear information, etc… It is problem-solving using design.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Trust your instincts – if the people seem icky don’t work for them.
No one will work as hard for you as you – be prepared to do the real work and get your hands dirty. Truly advocate for yourself. You don’t need to win every fight – hell, you don’t even need to have the fights. Figure out what is worth your attention and move towards that.
Contact Info:
- Website: rockets-are-red.com and let-it-bleed.com
- Instagram: @rocketsarered
- Facebook: facebook.com/rocketsarered
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-everett-3953023a/
Image Credits
Carlos Gonzalez-Fernandez
