#1024 - Jon Bellion - The Art of an Authentic Comeback

Jon Bellion's experience with the music industry is marked by periods of intense activity, reflective hiatuses, and a strategic return based on a deep understanding of the industry's business side.

Bellion Took a 6-7 Year Break to Reassess Touring Demands and Business Realities

Before taking a break from his artistry, Jon Bellion extensively toured and then took time to understand the industry's toll on his life compared to the financial compensation. It took him six years to realize he almost lost sight of what was important by chasing fame and wealth. During his hiatus, surrounded by those who had everything he once desired, Bellion reassessed his priorities.

Upon returning, Bellion experienced overwhelming success with two back-to-back sold-out shows at Forest Hills Stadium, which sold out within hours. This comeback, he accomplished without any major label backing, suggests a significant industry return and personal victory. Bellion returned without a major label, having taken the planning and financial responsibilities into his own hands, indicating a more hands-on approach to his career.

Exploited by Past Deals, Bellion Becomes More Discerning

Reflecting on past experiences where he felt financially exploited, Bellion became more weary of industry contracts. A new regime at his old label, three presidents removed from the old one, reached out to Bellion about releasing music with them. Although initially uninterested, he was swayed as he began writing for large artists and discovered the joy of expressing his own experiences.

Bellion reflects on being signed at a young age and how he was in a ten-year deal after only receiving a $10,000 advance. He has grown to prioritize his personal satisfaction with music over aiming for commercial success. Bellion's approach to music and his sound changed after his break, leading to positive outcomes he might not have ...

Jon Bellion discusses his views on fatherhood, emphasizing its importance in his life and the wider cultural context, often prioritizing it above his professional achievements.

Fatherhood Is Bellion's Most Important Role, Surpassing Music and Success

Bellion considers fatherhood his most important role, surpassing his music career and personal successes. Initially feeling pressure to fill his father's shoes, Bellion's perspective evolved as he reevaluated his view of his father, moving from seeing him as a "mountain" to recognizing him as a human with struggles and accomplishments. He values the everyday aspects of fatherhood, such as changing diapers, and sees being an average dad as the greatest thing in his life. This underscores the priority he places on fatherhood over his career.

Bellion struggles with the tension between being engrossed in his music career and participating in an interactive marriage. He speaks about the balance needed between personal interests, studio time, and family responsibilities. He poignantly explains the transformative impact of fatherhood, stating: "you have kids and then you learn to die. And when you learn to die, you actually get your life in your death. The giving up of oneself by saying my dreams, my millions, my potential, my MVP, my Olympics are dead because I brought a life into the world and I am everything in my body will make sure that this child is okay."

Bellion Values Fathers' Crucial Role and Wants His Music to Encourage Their Commitment to Children

Bellion wants his album "Father Figure" to remind men of the importance of their role in their children's lives, stressing that a father's impact is crucial to the family lineage. He conveys that fathers are a pillar in society, emphasizing their importance and the need for commitment. He hopes the album resonates with fathers, preventing detrimental choices and encouraging them to stay and care for their children. His music aims to be influential and morally responsible in addressing fatherhood creatively.

Bellion's Positive Experience With Present Father Shapes His Parenting Approach

Bellion’s experience growing up with an attentive father shapes his own parenting approach. He expresses gratitude for his father's sacrifices, striving to emulate them with his sons. He desires to make music that fathers can be proud of and reflects the importance of fatherhood in his life by dedicating his album to his father and to his commitment to his own children.

Grateful for His Father's Sacrifices, Belli ...

Jon Bellion discusses his personal approach to creativity and music, emphasizing the importance of intuition, genuine emotional connection, and the long-lasting impact of art.

Bellion Trusts His Intuition and Taste in Music, Not Trends or Commercial Viability

Bellion gives a candid insight into his mindset regarding the creation of music, focusing on the process rather than external achievements. He recounts enjoying music that resonates with him personally, rather than what might be commercially viable. Bellion is confident in his taste and experience, allowing him to create music in a more improvisational and genuine manner. He refers to the "Rick Rubin approach" of liking the music oneself, being less hard on self-imposed expectations and pressures.

Bellion Prioritizes Making Music He Enjoys Over Producing Hits or Staying Relevant

Bellion talks about the evolution of his music and how he has come to focus on creating tracks that he personally enjoys. He recognizes his skills not as the greatest singer, rapper, producer, or musician, but as someone with an adept sense for knowing what people will like. Through examples like embracing "dad music" during his "chubby phase," Bellion illustrates his focus on authenticity over industry expectations. He compares his approach to "fishing" for creativity, indicating a more intuitive method of creation that is untouched by the demands for commercial success.

Bellion Views His Role as a Creator as a Way to Impact Others, Not For Fame or Wealth

Bellion discusses his perspective on creativity and music, highlighting the deeper fulfillment and impact it has beyond fame or financial rewards. He recognizes the personal reflections that come from his art and the sensitive nature of it being an extension of himself. Despite the pressures of being a public figure and the "self-obsession" it can entail, Bellion prefers to make music from a place of personal enjoyment and satisfaction.

Bellion Prioritizes Vision Over Short-Term Commercial Success in Financial Risks and Creative Decisions

Jon Bellion is not shy about walking away from the music industry when necessary, such as the time he considered working at McDonald's to focus on music that fulfilled him personally. He underscores the importance of following his instincts and the deep connection with his work it cultivates. Bellion also mentions the influence of his wife in his creative decisions, supporting his choice to take ris ...

Jon Bellion provides his insight on societal changes, touching on topics from the role of social media in public life to the nuances of fatherhood and family dynamics.

Bellion Senses a Societal Shift From Fame, Wealth, and Validation to Simplicity and Presence

Bellion suggests that society is experiencing a "renaissance" where the simple things in life are becoming more valued, signaling a shift away from the allure of fame. He talks about an awakening to the overrated nature of fame and the disillusionment with celebrities, which points towards an appreciation for simplicity and authenticity. Bellion criticizes the societal pressure to live every day as if it were an extraordinary event, and instead advocates the value of normal life, emphasizing the importance of being present. He expresses a philosophical viewpoint that "everything matters and nothing matters," and enjoys simple pleasures like bike rides, suggesting a comfort with simple joys rather than extravagant or validated statuses.

Bellion: Disillusionment With Social Media Revives Appreciation for Mundane Experiences

Bellion conveys his discontent with social media and the branding-oriented approach it requires, citing concerns about its interference with his family life and mental space. He avoided pressures of curating posts by using a fake Instagram account to communicate without maintaining a public image. Bellion describes social media's impact on his sensitivity and how a negative comment could ruin his day. Reflecting on the challenges of social media, he argues it should not dictate one's perception of the quality of life. His six-year hiatus indicates he values authenticity and the simplicity of life away from online fame. Bellion sees social media as contradictory to the value of simple, unpublicized personal experiences.

Bellion Explores Fatherhood and Men's Roles In Families Through His Music

Bellion discusses the importance of a father's presence in his children's lives, focusing on how they are perceived by their children rather than by fans or th ...