Meet Roggenkamp:
Northern New Jersey singer-songwriter Jake Roggenkamp started off writing music for The Break Lights, an indie rock band. But now, Roggenkamp has started his solo venture beginning to release his own music just this year. Culling his inspiration from all of the greats from The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Ray Charles, and Paul Simon, while also pulling from American jazz standards. Jake Roggenkamp's voice sets him apart; in 2017, NPR stated, "The sound of his voice is completely unexpected — it sounds almost like Janis Joplin's: high, reedy and powerful - pulling back and letting loose in all the right places." When you hear one of Jake's songs playing, you'll know exactly who it is.
Genre: Singer-songwriter
Solo Artist Name: Jake Roggenkamp
Fun Facts: "I’ve been accused of using helium to achieve my higher vocal range!"
What Makes Jake Roggenkamp stand out?
"Unique vocal pitch and delivery, distinctive song writing style and chord structures."
What has Jake Roggenkamp been working on?
" I have a full length album sitting in the wings, no title yet. These songs are, in my opinion, my best yet. They move away from the folk vibe of Floral Derangements and borrow more from jazz standards and songs from the 30s & 40s. Lots of influence from Nat King Cole, Willie Nelson & Frank Sinatra songs to name a few."
What was your latest official release?
Floral Derangements was my first release as a solo artist. These songs were all written in spring of 2020 during the height of the pandemic. While the rest of the world seemed to be on fire, I took some time to slow down and look deeply into the nature that was blooming in spite of everything. These songs were all written, recorded, and produced at home by myself. They have a special place in my heart and transport me right back to that time when I listen and play them. I hope you enjoy!
Words from Jake Roggenkamp?
"Music and songwriting has been the center of my life for over a decade and I wouldn’t be standing here if I hadn’t found it as a passion. It has pulled me through the darkest times but also highlighted all the amazing times as well. That is my favorite thing about songwriting; it becomes a time capsule of who you were and where you were at in your life when you wrote the song."
Do you have any advice for other aspiring independent musicians?:
"Network with others and celebrate their work. That is the biggest lesson and it took me far too long to learn. Music is meant to be shared and there is an amazing community of musicians and songwriters everywhere you turn. Get yourself to an open mic as often as possible and support your fellow artists!" -Jake Roggenkamp
Listen to Jake Roggenkamp's Floral Derangements