“Where Have All the Good Men Gone?”: Jeeves on Embracing Risks and Creating Enduring Music - Atwood Magazine

      Emerging from a diverse blend of cultural influences and personal growth, Jeeves represents a fresh voice in the singer/songwriter genre. With roots in South Asia and a global musical journey that spans from Hindustani vocal training to studios in Nashville, he skillfully merges genres, languages, and emotions into a unique, timeless sound. Jeeves reflects on his artistic journey, the challenges faced as a South Asian artist in the Western music scene, and the therapeutic power of songwriting that creates connections among us all.

      “Where Did All the Good Men Go?” – Jeeves

      With a heartfelt message that resonates deeply, Jeeves has made his return with a highly personal and anticipated single, “Where Did All the Good Men Go?” – the first glimpse of his forthcoming debut album, Now or Never, set for release in late 2025.

      Written in 2017 amid the societal upheaval brought about by the #MeToo movement, the song addresses the complicated quest for positive male role models in contemporary society. Jeeves’ poignant lyrics and sincere delivery invite listeners into a personal contemplation on vulnerability, identity, and healing.

      His creative journey is as varied as his music itself. Named after the Sanskrit term “जीव” (life), Jeeves is navigating a global artistic path that includes cities like Los Angeles, New York, Nashville, London, and Stockholm. His debut EP, Live at Cove City, recorded in one take alongside iconic saxophonist Richie Cannata, showcased his fearless approach to storytelling and musicianship. Now, with Now or Never, Jeeves continues to delve into themes of courage, hope, and connection, encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability and find joy.

      “Where Did All the Good Men Go?” mixes the lyrical intimacy of Ed Sheeran with John Mayer’s refined musicianship, all enhanced by Jeeves’ unique "brown sugar finish." Recorded in Nashville with Grammy-nominated guitarist Charles Myers (Yebba) and drummer Aaron Sterling (John Mayer), the track is complemented by a cinematic string arrangement from Shaan Ramaprasad, whose notable credits include A.R. Rahman and Chance the Rapper. This remarkable collaboration creates a sound that is both richly layered and emotionally powerful.

      Jeeves admits that this track nearly remained unreleased due to its emotional authenticity. “I almost didn’t put it out because I was scared of its vulnerability and honesty,” he shares. “But through writing it, I healed parts of myself, and I hope it resonates with others.”

      The song’s lasting impact was highlighted by its live debut in Los Angeles at the renowned Hotel Café, marking a significant moment for Jeeves as he joins a vibrant new wave of South Asian voices reshaping the American singer-songwriter scene.

      As he gears up to release his debut album, “Where Did All the Good Men Go?” emerges as a moving anthem of reflection and renewal. It serves as a powerful reminder of music's ability to mend personal wounds and ignite collective empathy, posing a timeless question delivered with genuine emotion and a sound that transcends cultures and generations.

      Atwood Magazine engaged Jeeves in a conversation about his musical journey, the path to “Where Did All the Good Men Go?”, his vision for a debut album that fuses soulful introspection with cross-cultural influences, and the fearless vulnerability that shapes his music and message.

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      :: stream/purchase Where Did All the Good Men Go? here ::

      :: connect with Jeeves here ::

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      Jeeves © Stef Martin

      A CONVERSATION WITH JEEVES

      Atwood Magazine: Let’s begin at the start. What initially drew you to music, and how has your Indian-American identity influenced your early experiences as a songwriter?

      Jeeves: According to legend, my mom sang lullabies to help me sleep – but instead of dozing off, I would lie wide awake in amazement. Music surrounded me in my childhood. My dad, a member of the founding team at PortalPlayer (the startup responsible for early MP3 players like the iPod), would jam in the garage with his band after work. As their three-year-old fan, I grabbed the mic and imitated songs in English, Tamil, Hindi, and Malayalam.

      Our home was brimming with prototypes of MP3 players loaded with everything from A.R. Rahman and Yesudas to the Beatles, Green Day, and Clapton. My grandfather was a trained Carnatic vocalist whose aspirations were curtailed by colonial-era racism. My father opted for a different path – tech over music – because in the past, an Indian man dreaming of fame in America seemed impossible.

      Now, as a first-generation Californian, I feel incredibly fortunate. I carry the essence of those generational dreams and am free to sing songs that blend genres – celebrating themes of freedom, unity, love, and joy. That’s the gift of progress, and I cherish it.

      Your name, Jeeves, originates from the Sanskrit word “जीव,” meaning life.