Today we’d like to introduce you to Jona Vark.
Hi Jona, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a first-generation Honduran-American, born and raised in New Orleans, LA. Growing up, it was difficult being part of the LGBTQ+ community because it was such a taboo subject in the early 2000’s; so much that society was too unkind. Layering that on top of being the child to non-English speaking immigrants, it was difficult to adapt into American society. But as I got older, I found my place in the world and embraced both sides of my childhood.
I moved to Atlanta in 2019 with my family. I spent most of my childhood here in Georgia, specifically around Doraville, so Atlanta was always a familiar place to me. I began working on music as far back as 2018 but didn’t begin taking it as seriously as I do now until 2021.
When it comes to my art, I am completely independent. I’ve funded everything I’ve done all by myself; music videos, photoshoots, albums, singles, music production, and more. I even edit my own videos and cover art designs, as well as for other artists.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
To be transparent, it’s difficult to navigate the underground music scene. I’m from a smaller city so I’m not used to the fast pace of this industry, especially now that it’s grown over here in Atlanta. Unfortunately, it’s very competitive, but I remind myself to stay humble. I make sure to stay grounded and try my best to cultivate a sense of community with the creatives I do know here, especially with my fellow queer community.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a singer and songwriter, writing in both English and Spanish. I try to be versatile in my art because I also like different forms of art. My music ranges from electronic dance music to reggaeton, bachata, and even some alternative rock cuts. My music is heavily inspired by horror movies, sex and religious imagery. I grew up in a religious household so I have always been fascinated with the art and stories that come from them. I was also involved heavily in theater growing up, so I enjoy grandious and dedicated ways of storytelling that really reel you in, whether it be sonically or visually.
What I’m most proud of is getting noticed by Tech N9ne. He added one of my older songs “Oscuridad” on one of his playlists on Spotify. My music means a lot to me and to be noticed by such an industry legend was everything to me.
What sets me apart from others is that my image changes constantly. I lean towards versatility in my art because I just can’t be a stagnant person. The quality of my work speaks for itself too, because like I mentioned, I am completely independent. I’ve shot music videos in my bedroom, photoshoots in my hallways, and others and you wouldn’t even be able to tell. I recorded my first album on my Samsung Galaxy S2 in my closet, and you wouldn’t even be able to tell because that’s how serious I take myself and my art.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success to me is being known and being able to live off of what you do. Once my art becomes my full-time job, and it keeps me comfortable in my life, that’s when I know I’ve made it.
I just recently released a music video for my song “del corazon” that’s part of an EP I released on Valentine’s Day.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/thejonavark
- Twitter: twitter.com/jonavaark
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAvizSi9XNWenKPvfxa0h9Q
