Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeff Draco.
Hi Jeff, 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.
Growing up as the youngest sibling in a musically gifted family in rural Maryland, just outside DC, I spent my early years immersed in the vibrant energy of my brothers’ band practices in our basement. Those moments ignited my passion for music, leading me to pick up instruments like the guitar, drums, piano, bass, and tenor saxophone.
By age eight, I was sharing some of my musical creations on MySpace, setting the stage for a journey that would take me through various musical ventures. In my teens, I contributed to the Nashville-based jazz-punk band, The Willies, and fronted the Baltimore garage-rock group, STRANGER, before launching the Jeff Draco project.
These experiences and eclectic influences shaped my musical identity. Now, as I navigate the ever-expanding landscape of my solo project, I carry the lessons learned from each chapter, creating a sound-reflecting my journey from the early basement days at home to playing Firefly Festival, 930 Club, and stages across the U.S.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all – one significant challenge as a solo artist with a live band was finding a consistent lineup. Over time, I’ve been fortunate to build a solid group of friends, making the journey more enjoyable.
During a recent tour, we faced a significant setback when our vehicle was rear-ended by a massive work truck outside Asbury Park. The accident damaged equipment, forcing us to miss a Philly show. Despite the material losses, the most crucial thing was that no one was injured, and we made it back home to DC with makeshift repairs.
More recently, I encountered a major setback when my laptop, containing my almost completed EP, was stolen from my car. With no separate backup, I’m now reconstructing the project from scratch. Although it’s been challenging, I believe the next chapter will be even stronger as I revisit and reshape the songs from the EP.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m Jeff Draco, a DC-based musician from Maryland. I create indie/dream-pop blended with surf-rock elements. My commitment to continuous growth and refusal to deliver the expected sets me apart. I’m genuinely proud of my recent work, notably my single “Dreamgirl,” which is my first song to surpass 650k streams, and my EP, “Freezing in Hollywood,” which has gained 200k streams and received a positive reception from platforms like Wonderland and Ones To Watch.
The diverse range in my music, from nostalgic summer songs for carefree listening and dancing to contemplative tracks, aims to resonate while staying true to my feelings and creative process, so it’s surreal when people from around the world reach out to tell me how my music has resonated with them.
Despite the recognition, my focus remains on the next chapter, returning in 2024 with a new project and an unforgettable live show.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
A valuable lesson I’ve learned is to have others listen to your demos and consider critiques; it can help your production and songwriting. Equally important is not letting “demoitis” get you — take a break while recording. I sometimes overwork a song if I don’t take a step back from the track.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jeffdraco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffdraco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffdracomusic
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeffdraco
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/jeffdraco
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/jeffdraco
Image Credits
Briana DeRosa and Mike Kim
