Pursuing the Muse is back for season 3! In this episode, host Tom Compton sits down with singer-songwriter Jon Muq, whose debut album, Flying Away, was widely acclaimed. On Jon's journey from Uganda to Texas, Jon learned to craft vital, joyful songs that are very much needed in our world today. The discussion explores his new single "Hear My Voice" and the creation of his album, produced by Dan Auerbach. Jon shares profound insights into his optimistic worldview and unique approach to challenges, which fuels the celebration present in his music. He also talks about plans for a second album, as well as upcoming tours. Tune in to explore Jon Muq's captivating story and discover the soul behind his inspiring sound.

Find out more about Jon Muq:

https://jonmuq.com/

https://jonmuq.bandcamp.com/

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https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCONhA-kQkZF1jtViuhHMZbw

https://www.instagram.com/jonmuq/

https://www.facebook.com/Jonmuq/

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00:01:41 Introduction by Tom Compton, welcoming Jon Muq.

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00:02:19 Tom praises Jon Muq's album "Flying Away" as his favorite of 2024 and highlights his "happy songs".

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00:02:40 Jon's origins in Uganda, East Africa, currently in Austin, Texas.

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00:03:12 Discussion of when Jon started writing songs, beginning at age 15.

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00:03:38 Story of writing his first English song from a love letter for a friend.

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00:04:46 Jon's journey to Austin, starting with singing for homeless children in Kampala.

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00:05:46 Video of him singing online leads to connection with Norwegian Cruise Line.

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00:06:48 Passengers provided song recommendations, helping him build his list.

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00:08:08 After the cruise, opportunity arises at a refugee home in Austin.

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00:09:41 Initially, Jon had fear about writing his own English songs

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00:10:14 The couple he lived with inspired him to gain confidence and write more songs, leading to about 50 songs.

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00:11:09 Jon's songwriting process

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00:12:32 Discussion of his album "Flying Away" and its one-year anniversary.

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00:12:48 How Dan Auerbach discovered Jon.

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00:15:07 The album's recording process

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00:15:54 Writing "Hello Sunshine" inspiration

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00:17:41 Jon sometimes loses song ideas if he doesn't capture them quickly

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00:19:15 The vibrancy of his songs' source.

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00:19:15 Jon plans a second album

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00:20:28 His new single "Hear My Voice".

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00:23:03 The song's original title

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00:24:08 "Flying Away" features one cover.

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00:25:35 The recording studio vibe

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00:26:05 Upcoming tours.

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00:27:34 "Run Away" discussion.

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00:29:21 Jon's family.

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00:31:12 "Shake Shake" discussion.

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00:33:57 How Jon prefers to record albums.

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00:34:25 Audience response conversation.

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00:36:49 Jon discusses his song "Butterflies," written five years ago.

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00:39:34 When Jon thinks in his native language.

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00:40:55 Jon finds talks musical inspirations.

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00:43:56 processing American cultural differences.

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00:46:08 What songwriting is about for Jon.

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00:47:42 Jon's approach to situations

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00:49:14 What Jon's songs capture and communicate.

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00:50:19 Jon's parting advice

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00:50:50 Final farewells.

Pursuing the Muse theme song: "Neon Rails" by Joel Corelitz