We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenni Dale Lord and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jenni Dale, why did you pursue a creative career?
I love playing music so much, I really can’t imagine doing anything else. I say that, because I’ve done other things in the past. I have a culinary degree and worked as a chef for many years. Before that, I was a server while attending college and culinary school. I even got an Electronic Media and Communications degree from Texas Tech just over 10 years ago. I thought many times that I had found my chosen path, but everything always led back to music. It’s the only thing that’s ever really fulfilled me. It makes me happier than anything I’ve ever done.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a singer-songwriter from Lubbock, Texas. While my music is mostly played on Texas Country/Red Dirt radio, I am undoubtedly influenced by many genres, including blues and rock & roll. Without even trying, I fuse these styles into a unique sound unlike anyone else – to my detriment or benefit has yet to be determined. I recently released my seventh album, and reviews have said it is the best one yet. It’s because of the support of my family, friends, fans, band, and record producer that these albums have even had the opportunity to be made. Making an album takes lots of time, money, and a great team beside you.
None of it has been easy, necessarily. It’s a lot of work. But with the encouragement and assistance from my “team,” it hasn’t necessarily been hard, either. Determination, I’d say, is the most important asset one can have. If you want something, go for it, and do what it takes to make it happen. With each challenge conquered, another one arises. That’s the nature of the game. Just don’t give up. Never give up.
There are a lot of lessons to be learned: Stay humble, surround yourself with people who know more than you do, and learn from them, love your audience, be grateful, keep trying, and keep working. Something I’m still learning is how not to sweat the small stuff – to keep focus on positivity, and recognize how far I’ve come. I may not be where I want to be, but I’m further along than I was.
I suppose what I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. I’m not as young as I used to be, not as a lot of things as I used to be, but I hope I’m a better singer, songwriter, performer, and all around better person than I used to be. My songs are real and my heart is true. I believe every day is another day to continue to grow, and I hope to get a lot more days to keep on keeping on.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Fuel City late night elote in a cup is always on the list! That’s what I look forward to most after all our downtown gigs. The Truck Yard is one of my favorite stops – mimosas and Philly Cheesesteaks are usually brunch the morning after the show. I try to squeeze in a Rangers game and Texas Live! whenever I can. It was a birthday tradition for many years.
3Eleven Kitchen & Cocktails is definitely worth a stop. That was the first place I really experienced “mixology.” Uchi Dallas is my number one favorite, but Red, Hot, & Blue has been a staple since I was a kid. I also love Pie Tap – good pizza and good beer. I’m a foodie, so I usually plan my trips around places to eat. DFW is full of really amazing restaurants. It’s a foodie’s dream.
For someone who’s never been to the city, a bird’s eye view from Reunion Tower is nice. The Dallas skyscape is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful there is. Tour the Cowboys Stadium. It’s pretty incredible. And of course, Six Flags. So much fun.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There’s a large group who deserves recognition in my story. Without the love and support of my family, friends, fans, bandmates, and team, I know for certain I wouldn’t be here today: Lorraine Knipstein, Anicia Harriman, Scott Faris, Dillon Steen, “The Band,” “The Framily,” and countless others.
Website: jennidalelord.com
Instagram: instagram.com/jennidale
Twitter: twitter.com/jennidalelord
Facebook: facebook.com/JDLmusic
Youtube: youtube.com/guitargirljdl
Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1nvDLCRPbZMMKQjKVr2lA6?si=SEjDtarURtupFxT8LTbFLA
Image Credits
Photography: Carley Du Menil-Martinez Album art: Scott Faris & Rachel Faris-Ross, FarisWheel Productions