Apr 27
OWDB: A Songwriter's World: Jann Klose on Crafting Music That Crosses Continents
Dr. William Kapfer READ TIME: 10 MIN.
I've had the great pleasure of knowing Jann Klose, an award-winning singer-songwriter, for many years. On several memorable occasions, he's even treated us to impromptu mini-concerts, strumming his guitar in our New York apartment and at our home on Fire Island.
Recently, ahead of his busy summer performance schedule, I had the unique opportunity to catch up with him at Elmo in Chelsea.
We grabbed seats at the bustling bar and delved into his diverse musical journey, chatting about everything from his early influences to his recent projects. (For more on Jann's career, music and acting career, visit his website.)
Here's a glimpse into that enlightening conversation.
Jann Klose is a celebrated artist known for his unique blend of pop, rock, and folk, deeply influenced by his international upbringing in Germany, Kenya, South Africa, and the United States. This diverse cultural exposure is reflected in his music, which often tackles themes of love, loss, and human emotions.
Since relocating to the U.S., Jann has launched a successful music career, releasing several albums that showcase his ability to create deeply personal and captivating melodies.
Throughout his career, Jann has been recognized for his impressive vocal range and musical versatility. His performances are noted for their intimate energy, captivating audiences whether in cozy venues or grand concert halls.
His collaborations with various artists have enriched his musical style and allowed him to continuously refine his sound.
Jann's unwavering dedication to his art and his skill in navigating different musical styles have not only won him a loyal fan base but also widespread critical acclaim, establishing him as a distinctive voice in the contemporary music scene.
Watch Jann Klose's video for "All the Way Down". /
Early Life & Influences
Dr. Bill: Jann, your childhood spanned continents–from Germany to Africa. Can you share how these experiences influenced your music?
Jann: Absolutely. Growing up in Africa shaped me in many ways. I've always been interested in other cultures and musical styles, and in unusual instruments. Africa has somuch of that and it has influenced Western music profoundly. Fun memory: When I was a very young boy my parents climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with me and my brother on their backs.
Dr. Bill: What brought you from South Africa to pursue music in other parts of the world?
Jann: We lived in Hamburg, Germany when I was a teen. I eventually joined an AFS (American Field Service) exchange student program which first brought me to America. I later studied here in the US and made my way to New York City in the early 2000s.
Source: William Kapfer
Musical Journey and Songwriting Process
Dr. Bill: How did you first get involved in music, and who were your early influences?
Jann: I listened to the radio; American Top 40, British Top 40, and later, crossed over into many other genres from Jazz Fusion to Opera to Theatre to Rock, Blues and Folk. Some of my earliest influences were artists like Earth, Wind & Fire, Billy Joel, Prince, Mike Oldfield, CSNY and Led Zeppelin.
Dr. Bill: Starting out in music can be challenging. What were some of the hurdles you faced early on in your music career?
Jann: Being in the right place at the right time, doing your homework, being prepared and overcoming obstacles.
Dr. Bill: Can you describe your songwriting process? Where do you usually find inspiration for your songs?
Jann: I generally start with a melody but there are many different ways to get a song finished. Sometimes they come really fast and sometimes it can take years. The biggest challenge is always when you get close to the finish line and pushing to get those last couple of lines written!
Dr. Bill: One of my personal favorites among the songs you've performed is "Don't Give Up," which you collaborated on with Annie Haslam and Rave Tesar. I fondly remember when Eric and I, along with some friends visiting from South Africa, were invited to the release party in late 2016.
This song, originally by Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush, deeply resonated with me during my senior year of college in London. Released amidst the economic challenges under Margaret Thatcher's leadership, its lyrics poignantly captured the despair of those struggling with job loss and its emotional toll. I recall feeling anxious about my future career, wondering if I would ever find a job after graduation.
Is there a song that holds a special meaning for you? I'd love to hear the story behind it
Jann: I wrote a song with Tamara Dey at a BMI Songwriters Camp in Cape Town several years ago called "You & I". We initially imagined ourselves as space traveling lovers and that shaped the story. I first recorded it for my 2018 album "In Tandem" and then Tamara just released it as a new dance/pop version on her EP "La Musica" and the track went to Number 1 in South Africa–to my complete surprise! The message of course is: You never know what can happen. Just follow your instincts, keep creating.
Watch Jann Klose's video for "Surrender". /
Source: Andrea Watts Photography
Album and Songs
Dr. Bill: Of all the albums you've released, which one do you feel represents you best and why?
Jann: My newest, "Surrender". It's my seventh album and is very diverse stylistically. I love the sound that my producers Marcus Dembinski and David Schoenwetter (aka Invida) created for it. I lived the stories that are included on it in the form of songs written with several different co-writers including Alex Forbes. She and I used to get together during the first months of the pandemic while the world shut down and poured all of our feelings into the songs. It was basically free therapy!
Dr. Bill: How do you decide which songs make it onto an album?
Jann: They should fit the overall arch of the album. I have several songs that have been left off records for that reason alone, not because they are bad songs. Some of them may end up on a future album.
Performances, Tours and Collaborations
Dr. Bill: What has been your most memorable performance to date?
Jann: Singing at the school I attended as a boy in Johannesburg with orchestra and three different choirs!
Dr. Bill: How do you prepare for a tour, and what do you enjoy most about being on the road?
Jann: Make sure the travel plans are sorted as best as possible in advance because unexpected stuff happens all the time. I love to travel so that's the easy part... Discovering new countries, people and cultures is a great gift in this life.
Dr. Bill: You've collaborated with various artists over the years. How do these collaborations come about, and what do you look for in a collaborative partner?
Jann: I meet a lot of people through my travels and one thing leads to another, that's how you connect with like-minded artists and people in the industry. I generally look for a personal connection and a vibe that leads to good working conditions.
Dr. Bill: Is there an artist you dream of collaborating with in the future?
Well, there are many but I'll call out Miley Cyrus, Paul McCartney and Bonnie Raitt! Think BIG!
Source: Bill Kapfer
Insights and Reflections
Dr. Bill: How has your music evolved over the years, and how do you see it changing in the future?
Jann: I honestly just want to get better at what I do and keep trying new things and work/write in as many genres as I can. I'm attracted to a great melody and timeless storytelling.
Dr. Bill: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your music career?
Jann: The fact that I have been able to create a sustainable career and create value for myself as an artist.
Dr. Bill: Can you share a particularly impactful interaction you've had with a fan?
Jann: A man came up to me after playing the Splashy Fen Music Festival in Underberg in South Africa last year. He had tears in his eyes and said that my song "Dear Mel" made him think of his son that he had lost. He hugged me and thanked me after the show. It was a very emotional moment.
Dr. Bill: How do you feel your music has connected with your audience, and what do you hope they take away from your performances?
Jann: I hope I help them forget their daily life challenges for a moment and I hope they walk away humming a melody :)
Source: Bill Kapfer
Looking Ahead
Dr. Bill: What are your future plans or projects that fans can look forward to?
Jann: I have two new songs coming out, May 3rd my cover of Tim Buckley's "Song to the Siren" and June 7th "Love is a Verb", my collaboration with South African artist, DJ Cosher. I have shows in the US, Mexico and Germany and hopefully Brazil and South Africa again.
My podcast "Making Sound with Jann Klose" has some excited guests coming up on it including Oscar winning German composer Volker Bertelmann, poet Larry Beckett and bassist Will Lee (CBS The Late Show, the Fab Faux).
As our conversation drew to a close, it was clear that Jann Klose's passion for music is as vibrant and diverse as the influences that have shaped him.
Whether through the deeply emotional connections his songs foster or the global journey that continues to inspire his creativity, Jann remains a compelling figure in the world of music.
His upcoming projects and tours promise new opportunities for fans to experience his evolving artistry. Notably, his next performance is scheduled for Saturday, May 4th at the Cutting Room in New York, located at 44 East 32nd Street. (Click here for ticket information.)
For anyone touched by his music, Jann's journey is a testament to the power of following one's artistic vision and the universal language of music that transcends borders and cultures.
As we look forward to his future endeavors, Jann Klose continues to be a beacon for aspiring artists everywhere, proving that music is not just an art form–but a life-long adventure.
For more on Jann's career, music and acting career, visit his website.
