Singapore-based Filipino architect Jhames Joe fuses passion and purpose
In Singapore resides a hidden gem in the music industry — architect-musician Jhames Joe. While his days are spent meticulously crafting visual work as a licensed architect, he also transforms into a singer-songwriter.
Born and raised in a household pulsating with the rhythm of music, Jhames attributes his passion for the art form to his father and brother. Fondly reminiscing about his childhood, he recalls his father’s affinity for the crooning tunes of Tom Jones, an influence that ignited his musical journey.
Reflecting on his early encounters with music, Jhames shared that his dad was into artists like Tom Jones back in the ’90s. He bought a karaoke machine with cassette tapes of minus-one tracks and would encourage Jhames to sing along.
Fueled by his familial inspiration, Jhames delved deeper into his musical exploration, honing his skills on the drums under the guidance of his brother. It was a pursuit that resonated deeply with him, igniting a fervent desire to pursue music wholeheartedly.
Venturing into the scene of bands during his undergraduate days, Jhames’ journey led him to join Cozmic Euphoria, where his prowess as a vocalist reached the stages across Baguio City, culminating in a memorable stint at the Globe Kantabataan competition in 2007.
However, destiny had other plans for Jhames as he embarked on a new chapter, relocating to Singapore in pursuit of his architectural ambitions. Despite the geographical shift, his passion for music remained unwavering, serving as an artistic outlet amidst his professional endeavors.
Even now, Jhames shared that it’s still what he does because he finds joy in music. “It’s where I can unleash my artistic side,” said Jhames in the vernacular, reflecting on the seamless integration of his two passions.
The emergence of the pandemic served as a catalyst for Jhames’ musical resurgence, culminating in the release of his single “Sa’yo” in 2020. Since then, he has embraced his identity as a singer-songwriter, breathing life into melodies.
Beyond his personal endeavors, Jhames extends his passion for music to nurture budding talents as one of the proprietors of his own record label, providing a platform for aspiring musicians to realize their musical dreams.
In a serendipitous turn of events, Jhames found himself drawn to the timeless melodies of Rivermaya, particularly captivated by the narrative woven into the lyrics of “If.” A song that resonated deeply with him, serving as a testament to the enduring power of Filipino music.
Reflecting on his connection to the song, Jhames shared in Tagalog, “One day, my wife was watching a movie, and I heard the exact lyrics of the song ‘If.’ It took me back to when I first heard it on the radio, realizing it was written by a Filipino band. That’s when I started investing my time in listening to OPM music.”
Through his rendition of “If,” Jhames pays homage to the profound impact of Filipino music on his life, a tribute to the melodies that served as a steadfast companion through the years.
On his current career path, where architecture meets melody, Jhames Joe emerges as a testament to the possible fusion of passion and purpose. With each chord struck and every lyric penned, he continues to make a mark.
It is heartwarming to know that Jhames seriously wants to pursue music and is opening himself to opportunities but he also speaks passionately about taking care of his family. While he works on making a name for himself and the artists he handles, Jhames makes sure his decisions prioritize the wellbeing of his wife and young children. Truly, he is an artist who knows where his heart is.
