Exclusive Interview with Carlos Fajardo

Artist Spotlight: Carlos Fajardo

With no production artifice beyond Fajardo’s vocals and an acoustic guitar, “Thank You Mama” is honest, raw, and heartfelt. Fajardo aims to keep things simple, eschewing professional studios and instead preferring to record himself outside with only an iPhone.

In this exclusive Q&A, Carlos Fajardo opens up about the stories behind the music, lessons learned along the way, and what keeps their passion alive.

BH Review: When did you begin to see music as more than a personal outlet?

Carlos Fajardo: A year ago, I started recording my music on my phone. This gave me an opportunity to hear my music all the time and share it with friends. I felt it was the right time to share with the world.

BH Review: What personal traits do you think most influence your creative decisions?

Carlos Fajardo: I made a decision when I started to stay original.  To not play any other music but my own. This helps me be able to create music. Also, being able to learn guitar on my own without taking any lessons made the challenge more interesting. Allowing me to express my art better in the end.  I have unlocked the guitar.   

BH Review: How do ideas for new songs or projects usually take shape for you?

Carlos Fajardo:  I wanted my first song to be for my mother. Thanking her for what she's done for me throughout my life. I believe in  God's promise that families, no matter what, will always reunite one day in heaven.  Knowing that assures me that we will always be together.

BH Review: What helps you stay productive during periods of creative uncertainty?

Carlos Fajardo: My family,  wife and my two daughters. They always keep me moving forward. My family inspires me.  

BH Review: How would you describe the elements that define your sound today?

Carlos Fajardo:  The elements that will define my sounds are. Rock and Roll, Country, and Falke music. Some songs will have an alternative, grunge, and blues feel to them. Also, add a touch of flamenco sounds at times.  

BH Review: How do you approach evolving musically while maintaining consistency in your work?

Carlos Fajardo:  Although work takes most of my day,  I still manage to practice one hour a day. This helps me keep my fingers moving and also helps me create inspiration for new songs.  

BH Review: How do you balance creative priorities with the practical realities of releasing music?

Carlos Fajardo:If you feel your music is worth it, you will have no problem releasing it.  Music is art that shines only when shared.   

BH Review: What skills have become more important to you as your career has progressed?

Carlos Fajardo: A skill becoming important to me is my storytelling.  I want to be able to create stories that inspire and give hope.  

BH Review: What was the focus or intention behind your most recent release?

Carlos Fajardo: To see if my song has a chance to be heard and enjoyed. When the song was created,  I  listened to it many times and cried tears away.   

BH Review: How did the creation of this project differ from your earlier work?

Carlos Fajardo: This one meant everything to me. It was for someone who has been with you through thick and thin. Mama for me was my mom, but Mama is someone who represents love to you.