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🎤 Meet Jeremy Burns: The Voice & Rhythm of Belles’ Suitors
Jeremy Burns brings a raw, authentic energy to Belles' Suitors, blending folk, southern rock, and country influences into his songwriting and performances. Let’s dive into his musical journey, creative process, and the man behind the music. 🎸
🎓 Musical Journey
Q: How did you first get into music, and what drew you to the guitar?
I’ve always loved music since I was a kid. As for the guitar, I felt it was the most versatile instrument besides the piano, and it was way cheaper. I especially love the acoustic because I can play and learn without additional equipment.
Q: Who were your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound?
Johnny Cash, and newer outlaw country artists like Zach Bryan and Tyler Childers, as well as Whiskey Myers, red dirt, and Americana folk. It’s raw, and at the point where it's raw, it’s also incredibly technical. These artists are highly skilled at what they do.
Q: What was the first song you learned to play on the guitar, and how did it feel?
I learned "Hurt," and it felt like that was the moment that convinced me I was supposed to do this.
🎸 Belles’ Suitors Experience
Q: What made you decide to form Belles' Suitors, and what do you enjoy most about being part of the band?
I had been doing the solo thing for a while, but I felt limited in the variety of songs I could perform. I wanted to play bigger venues more consistently, and most importantly, I felt like I had progressed enough to be a good addition to a band, instead of a band being added to me.
Q: How do you balance your role as both lead singer and rhythm guitarist in the band?
Thankfully, that’s where the gift comes in. I don’t really think about it too much—I just do what I can to contribute in my own way.
Q: Can you describe the creative process when you and the other band members write new music?
I like to start with a standard template for a song. I make sure that’s all there, then tweak it to fit the message and emotions I’m trying to relay. I keep molding it until it resonates emotionally with me because if it connects with me, it will do the same for others. I enjoy telling stories, witty or clever, with layers of meaning that others can interpret in their own way.
🚀 Performance & Stage Presence
Q: How do you prepare for a live performance, both mentally and musically?
Mentally, I remind myself where my roots are and why I’m doing this. Physically, I focus on my diet, balancing exercise, vocal and breathing techniques, and limiting unhealthy habits like alcohol.
Q: What’s one of your most memorable live performances, and what made it special? I played at a veterans’ home in Dodge City, Kansas, and performed Toby Keith’s "American Soldier." One of the old veterans in a wheelchair stood up during the entire song, holding himself up with the wall. That moment really hit home, showing me the power of music to inspire others.
Q: What’s the most exciting or rewarding part of performing for your fans?
Seeing people have a good time on the surface is great, but when I can tell that I’ve really engaged and touched someone—that’s what makes it worth it. Music has helped me, and knowing that I can do that for someone else is the reason I perform.
🎶 Musical Style & Gear
Q: How would you describe your playing style on both guitar and vocals?
Straightforward, not a lot of frills. Melody and dynamics are the two most important things when telling a story.
Q: What gear do you swear by for your live shows and recording sessions?
My acoustic Fender. It’s served me well. I also swear by a good set of strings that won’t break easily.
🤝 Band Dynamics
Q: How would you describe the vibe within the band and the relationship between band members?
The vibe now feels natural and organic. We’ve had a few different lineups, but Belles’ Suitors is in a great place now. We don’t worry about clashing, so we can focus on the actual fun of playing and performing music.
Q: What’s been the most rewarding part of being in Belles' Suitors so far?
I get to play with Mark, who I’ve known for a long time. With Colin and Dan, it’s the ability to co-create something that’s truly ours—whether it’s music or an experience. It’s all ours.
Q: How do you manage creative differences or disagreements within the band?
I try to be upfront about expectations. If we run into a tough spot, we put it to a vote. As long as we stay true to what Belles' Suitors is, we can have open discussions about direction and influences. Ultimately, we’re in a zone now where we’re working really well together, and it’s a blessing.
đź§ Challenges & Growth
Q: What has been the biggest challenge for you in your musical career, and how have you overcome it?
My own confidence level and staying consistent. The key is to show up even when it’s hard and when you don’t want to, and remember the people you’re affecting with your music.
Q: What’s a skill or area you’re working on improving as both a guitarist and a singer?
I’ve been expanding my physical guitar technique by exploring new influences and understanding songwriting processes more deeply. Vocally, I continue to keep my body in shape and practice breathing techniques.
🎶 Fun & Personality
Q: If you could jam with any musician, living or dead, who would it be and why?
I’d love to hear Johnny Cash tell me stories.
Q: What’s one thing fans might be surprised to learn about you, either musically or personally?
I wasn’t supposed to be a musician—I was supposed to play for the KC Chiefs. I’m also a single father of four.
đź”® Looking Ahead
Q: What are you most excited about for the future of Belles' Suitors?
The overall growth as a band. I’m excited to record and release our original music.
Q: Do you have any upcoming projects or new music in the works that you can share?
We’re gearing up for Battle of the Bands at Shovelheads on June 28th, 2025, and we’re really excited for that!
Jeremy’s musical journey is anything but conventional. A self-taught guitarist, he developed his skills through dedication and passion. From jamming in open sessions to learning techniques from online videos, Jeremy has embraced every opportunity to refine his craft.
His early experience in the Soldier’s Angels’ Operation Harmony program gave him a solid foundation, but it’s his drive to continuously learn and evolve that truly sets him apart.
“I’ve picked up so much just by diving in—playing covers, experimenting with techniques, and learning from others,” Jeremy shares.
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