San Antonio-based indie-pop artist Jackson Marshall has officially made his way out to Arizona with his first-ever show at the iconic Rebel Lounge. Jackson is no stranger to the music scene; at just 21, he has already released two EPs and a variety of singles. Not only that, but Jackson recently toured with fellow indie-pop artist Kevian Kraemer on the first leg of his “Only if it Matters” summer tour, which wrapped up in August.

Jackson is back at it once again with a mixture of headline gigs and shows supporting indie-rock/alternative band Evening Elephants. Phoenix was lucky enough to experience Jackson’s set on 9/9 at the Rebel Lounge, opening for Evening Elephants, and let me tell you…he delivered. I also had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Jackson pre-show to learn more about his story and ambition as an artist.

Jackson released his first single, "Maybe," in 2023 but began writing and producing long before then. As the resident “SoundCloud kid” of his middle school, he began sharing his early music to the SoundCloud platform from a very young age. Both his drive and passion for music remain consistent and have led Jackson to the success seen in his music career today. Jackson’s tracks feature key elements of any great indie-pop artist: catchy yet relatable lyrics and that upbeat/clean guitar approach.

Inspired by artists such as Quadeca, Brock Hammpton, Dominic Fike, and Kevian Abstract, Jackson’s sound is rather diverse and unique. He has undoubtedly developed as an artist over the years, which his most recent EP, HEARTS, perfectly displays. Jackson describes HEARTS as "sonically, his most cohesive work” that lyrically touches on feelings associated with long-distance relationships and experiencing that sense of “yearning” for another person you can’t physically be with.

Not only is Jackson Marshall a talented songwriter and performer, but his passion for music in general is a prominent feature of his identity as an artist and an individual. Jackson describes his relationship with his music as his “...way of being creative and free...writing music and producing songs is probably the most fun I have ever had in life. I can always rely on that to bring me happiness and release those creative thoughts and ideas. Music is everything.”

After just a brief conversation and opportunity to experience his 30-minute set, it was so evident how appreciative Jackson is for his music career and relationship with the music community in general. It is inspiring to witness artists living out their dreams and truly enjoying the experience.

Lucky for us, Jackson is currently working on some new projects. We can expect those indie synth elements and honest lyricism that we all know and love. Jackson describes the upcoming music as “his best work”. Say no more. Album/EP/singles; whatever the case may be, we are stoked. Jackson and his band are on the road for the rest of the month, with an upcoming leg of headline shows from Ohio to Colorado. If you are looking for a sign to buy that ticket, consider this. You can thank me later!

Watch our full candid interview below.

Shot & edited by Madison Jernigan (@behind.mads.cam on Instagram)