Conversations with Jay Soto

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jay Soto.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m an award-winning, professional musician who has spent virtually a lifetime honing my raft as a guitarist, vocalist, pianist, songwriter, producer and performer. Born and raised in Arizona, I’ve been a well-respected musician within the local, Phoenix music scene, as well as an internationally-celebrated Smooth Jazz recording artist.

I had the pleasure of sharing the studio or stage with many greats in the industry including Jeff Lorber, Jeffrey Osborne, Paul Brown, Craig Chaquico, Boney James, Candy Dulfer, Everette Harp, Eric Darius, Gregg Karukas, Euge Groove, Michael Lington, Marion Meadows and many more.

Over the years, I believe I’ve made an indelible mark in the Phoenix music scene, performing for thousands of events at various venues over the years. I had the honor of gracing the stage at Phoenix’s Celebrity Theater several times as well, performing for a plethora of theaters, resorts, restaurants, music festivals, colleges, schools, corporate events and charities. My longest-running gig is currently at the Wigwam Resort where I’ve performed regularly for over 18 years.

In addition to my secular career in music, I’ve been a music director for many local churches since I was 19 years of age. I have also been a supporter of the charity organization, Starlight Children’s Foundation Arizona, performing in concert for their fundraisers. Finally, as music director for Phoenix Children’s Hospital’s annual memorial service of six years, I was given the opportunity to bring comfort to grieving families through the gift of music.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve certainly had my share of trials and tribulations over the years as in position, but nothing that has ever stopped me from pursuing my dreams. The bulk of my challenges occurred at the height of my Smooth Jazz career. I learned very quickly that the music business at the top can be a very cold, and even cruel, industry. The toughest lessons I had to learn were more or less involved with legalities. To be a successful, full-time musician, one needs to have a very good working knowledge of how the industry works, how to make sense of contracts and how to negotiate good deals.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have a passion for all things music. Though I am a multi-instrumentalist, my forte would definitely be the guitar. I’m best known for my guitar prowess. I am most proud of reaching number two on the Billboard charts with my #2 radio hit, Slammin.’ Another proud moment would be the evening that I had the honor of performing solo guitar for actor Clint Eastwood for four hours.

Any big plans?
For the immediate future I’m about ready to break ground on my latest album. It will be my seventh studio album. I’m also excited to venture out in my Phoenix local scene to find new venues to perform at.

Pricing:

• Pricing for a live performance can vary depending on the event, the venue, location, how many hours, etc.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.Jaysoto.com
• Instagram: jaysotojazz
• Facebook: Jay Soto
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/3xJ9K2Yun9E?si=IobwITZMghvpiuwb