Meet Jake O’Rourke | Guitarist, Desert Music Project

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jake O’Rourke and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jake, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I (Jake O’Rourke) wanted to tap back into my creative side. I had a small set of original music put together, and after starting to work with Reuben and Daniel, was able to create even more original music and take the band to the next level.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Aside from playing in Desert Music Project, I am a journalism graduate student at the University of Arizona, I work at a dispensary in Tucson and I work on various freelance writing projects as I’m able to get them.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
MSA Annex, St. Philip’s Plaza, Borderlands Brewing Co., Crooked Tooth Brewing, Pueblo Vida Brewing. These are some of my favorite places to go in Tucson. I could eat all up and down 4th Ave. and downtown Tucson. I like to try and many new places as possible. There are so many amazing restaurants and bars and community spaces that it can be hard to dial in a particular favorites.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Desert Music Project wouldn’t be possible without Reuben on drums and Daniel on bass. The musical expertise they both bring to the table is something I learn from in every rehearsal and at every performance. Our ability to craft new music as a collective is something I greatly enjoy and appreciate. Of course, all our friends, family and supporters also deserve endless thanks and gratitude.

Instagram: @desertmusicproject

Other: email: desertmusicproject@gmail.com