Some artists create songs to entertain, while others use music to tell stories that resonate long after the final note. Hey Jace PH has continued to build a place in the local independent music scene through heartfelt songwriting, memorable melodies, and a sound that blends pop and rock with genuine emotion.
In this edition of City Stories, we sit down with Hey Jace PH to talk about the band’s musical journey, the inspiration behind their songs, the creative process that shapes their sound, and the experiences that continue to fuel their passion for making music. Join us as we get to know the people behind the music and discover the story behind Hey Jace PH.
What inspired the name “Hey Jace”?
The name Hey Jace was inspired by the Eraserheads song “Hey Jay”. It was also considered the band’s name because JC Valeroso, the vocalist and guitarist, was also recognized as “Jace” by his friends.
How would you describe your music style in three words?
Pop – Rock – Alternative 🙂
Who are your biggest musical influences, both local and international?
Considering the band members’ diverse musical tastes, the common theme among the influences is OPM. For songwriting, Sugarfree, Rico Blanco, and Eraserhead were considered major influences. International influences are PREP and Switchfoot.
What’s your usual songwriting process like?
It always starts with JC, then an initial recording will be sent to the members for their intervention before the actual rehearsal. If everyone is satisfied with the output, the band will include the song in the working set for the gig and then record it.
Do your songs come from personal experiences or observations?
Yes, and the common theme is love.
Which of your songs feels the most personal to you, and why?
For me (JC), it’s the song “Huli” because it was inspired by my dissertation on the school-island communities of Malolos, Bulacan. I just did a few revisions to the lines and turned it into a love song.
How do you want listeners to feel when they hear your music?
Relax and relapse. Haha
How has being part of the OPM scene shaped your identity as artists?
It showed us the direction in which we wish to take or achieve in the future. We thank all the OPM bands who inspired us to keep on writing and performing music
What challenges have you faced as an emerging band in the Philippines?
The most challenging part is balancing our day jobs with music. Most of us are in the Academe, and it is very tough to study and rehearse while we have deadlines and deliverables as teachers.
Other challenges include marketing our music, mostly post-production concern
Can you share a defining moment in your journey so far?
Being on a radio playlist and sponsored by a music instrument provider. Shoutout to Jolly Music, Guitar Pusher, and Jcraft guitars.
How has your sound evolved since your early releases?
The sound evolved because of the camaraderie. Before, it was like playing with a usual bandmate, but now it feels like everyone is on the right track. It’s like playing with friends.
What themes or stories do you often explore in your music?
Love, pain, and everything that’s happening around us.
How do you connect with your fans through your songs?
We share it with our friends and family. Though most of the support came from people outside our circle, we kept creating content to show our life after our 9-5 jobs.
Have you received any fan messages that deeply impacted you?
We had this gig last year, and one of the people watching approached JC and asked him, “Why are you still not famous?” That’s the time he realized it’s time to change the approach for the band and make more music.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
We would like to collaborate with our music heroes, Sugarfree, Rico Blanco, Urbandub, Autotelic, Ben and Ben, and also BINI!🌸
How does your environment or city influence your creativity?
Our environment is constantly reminding us that we must have a life after work. That’s why we keep on moving forward
What makes your music different from other OPM acts today?
It’s very challenging to answer that question because we would like our listeners to answer that for us. Maybe the best response is that our music could inspire others to build lives beyond work and school. There is more to life than school and the workplace.
What message do you want to share with people discovering Hey Jace for the first time?
Regardless of your age, do not hesitate to share your life stories. Keep on moving forward. Sharing your story is one way of healing yourself.
What can fans expect next from Hey Jace?
More music, more fun content (please check our socials), and more stories from the band!
Show your support by following them on their official social media accounts and streaming their music! Click the links below to stay updated on their latest releases, performances, and upcoming projects.
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