Jonathan Baxter is a Belfast-based alternative artist who crafts his music to the ever-changing sounds of the unforgiving Belfast rain. Originally hailing from Castlederg in West Tyrone, he has found a new abode to hang his hat—or guitar, as he would say.
For Jonathan, making music is about much more than entertainment. It’s about expression, challenge, and the perpetual pursuit of emotional truth. Song-writing graces him with an ability to tap into these realms and reveals a vista to his life. To boot, there is a profound joy in knowing that the songs he writes may touch someone’s heart, stir their memories, or inspire them in their own journey. It is this connection that sustains his love for song-writing, guiding him to delve deeper into his craft and seek new ways to articulate the human experience.
Having spent years playing in bands, Jonathan is now transitioning from that chapter to embark on his own solo project. As he had always been the lead songwriter, this shift felt like a natural progression for him. His latest project emerged as part of this evolution in his musical journey, a point where Jonathan felt increasingly confident that his songs were more than good enough to stand on their own.
This belief led him to reconnect with producer Ryan McGroarty, who was already acquainted with Jonathan’s song-writing prowess, having mixed tracks for his previous bands. Sharing his vision, Jonathan discussed what he hoped to achieve and the wheels of creativity were soon in motion.
Jonathan sees himself as an artist of depth and true craftsmanship, seamlessly blending vibrant expression with the soul of a genuine singer-songwriter. What sets him apart, giving him that unmistakable “je ne sais quoi,” is the authenticity and heartfelt emotion that resonate powerfully through his songs. He brings a unique zest to his music, making every note and lyric a true reflection of his artistic spirit.
Having aspirations to build a dedicated fanbase and create a body of work that will establish a song-writing and musical legacy he can take utmost pride in; time will tell if Jonathan can deliver and if he truly has that “je ne sais quoi”.
Jonathan’s debut single SwanS is a journey through art, history, and love, inspired by the timeless sculpture Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss. This eternally beautiful piece resides in the Louvre Museum in Paris. Soon after being sent a photograph of it, a cascade of emotions and ideas began to effortlessly emerge, none more evident than the enchanting French-infused lyrics of “Je ne sais quoi.”
Titled SwanS to encompass the lifelong pairing of these graceful wonders, coupled with a strong faith and belief that we too in the human form may experience such a bond. Jonathan invites listeners on a sonic voyage through poignant verses and soaring choruses, where threads of passion, inspiration, and longing weave throughout. As the melody and narrative unfold, the song constantly proves that there is an undeniable pull, a magnetic force that draws those who are meant to be together, closer and closer.
Jonathan wants fans and listeners to feel the spirit of true love from his debut single SwanS. He hopes to convey that innocence coupled with the raw, unfiltered emotions that come with falling in love—the exhilarating rush of new beginnings, the tender moments of connection, the losing and finding in ourselves.
Fans of pop, rock, rock ‘n’ roll, indie, and straight-up singer/songwriter styles are sure to be captivated by this track. Its crossover qualities are undeniably powerful, resonating with listeners and revealing to each their own unique “je ne sais quoi.”
SwanS was recorded at Start Together Studios in Belfast, co-produced by Jonathan, Darragh Tibbs, and Ryan McGroarty. Ryan, who also served as the mix engineer, brought his creative magic to the project, evident throughout the recording. The track was then mastered by the masterful and world-renowned Robin Schmidt of 24-96 Mastering.