And So It Goes - Power, Influence and the Career of Jackson Sneed

By Noel Hernandez

The history of contemporary music shows that no matter what trend the recording industry feeds us, the singer-songwriter remains a constant. In Jackson Sneed ’s case, his intention to become a singer-songwriter was not at the forefront of his musical journey.

Like many teenagers, Sneed was sufficiently influenced by his favorite bands to want to become a musician. Music was a common environment for him as his parents are both successful radio consultants. His decision was gradually made as he soaked up the plethora of sounds around the house.

In his early teens, Sneed was engrossed in all things Primus and thus singer/ bass player Les Claypool became a major influence. "In the beginning I sort of started playing bass because I wanted to learn the [Primus] songs," Sneed said. "I wanted to be just like Les. I still think he’s amazing." Jackson also realized that with so many guitarists available, it would easier to get a gig with a band as a bass player. "Everybody needs a bass player" was early advice from Alan Sneed , the boy's well known and industry-savvy father. With a strong desire to be musically active, playing bass seemed expedient, at the very least.

Playing solidly for a year in a jazz based band refined Sneed bass skills, but it was a live Phish album that would eventually alter the bass player’s course. He recalled, "When I heard Trey Anastasio play guitar, I thought he was incredible and when I went to see Phish live, I thought wow!" Once again, Sneed found himself influenced by the impact of a musician and started to play guitar, never turning back. "When I started playing guitar, I felt more of a physical high; it’s more dynamic than bass," As Sneed forged on as a musician, the opportunity arose to join another band - as the drummer - while he started to approach songwriting.

Five years after deciding to become involved musically, Jackson Sneed now knew how to play bass, guitar, and drums and write songs. Alongside his growing creativity as a performer, he had been making a living as a recording engineer. Meanwhile, material for Sit had been accumulating. " I’m just not good enough to do this – I can play drums, it doesn’t necessarily mean I’m a good drummer," Sneed remembers saying at the time. Ultimately he saw the necessity of forming his own band. Jackson understood good chemistry between band mates, "Once I got the band together, I had no interest whatsoever in playing or doing a record by myself anymore. I feel like this band is such a part of it all. If I was to make an album by myself now, I feel it would be very one dimensional, " Sneed observed.

Sit , the album , is pleasant and carefree. Unlike the Mayers and McCains of this world, Sneed's music doesn’t focus on voice or instrument taking the lead, but rather a seamless blend of all members’ efforts. Sneed's soft vocals are a smooth complement to the five-piece whose music can be best described as an evolving songwriter’s jam band.

Sneed's family environment will no doubt hasten his exposure to the masses, a fortunate accident of birth and an advantage rarely accorded ordinary working musicians. His natural talent will perhaps transcend those concerns.