By Nicholas Jason Lopez
Having gotten to perform as Young Charlie in the Tony Award-winning Broadway show “Kinky Boots” and work with the likes of Brendon Urie (Panic! At The Disco), Billy Porter, Glenn Close, James Franco, John Malkovich and Wayne Brady, Jake Katzman has made a great impression upon around the entertainment industry since a rather young age.
Having appeared on everything from soundtracks, films (“The Wilde Wedding,” “Trouble,” “The Adderall Diaries”) and TV to commercials and video games, chances are you’ve probably seen or heard something that has involved Katzman.
Within the music industry specifically, Katzman is best revered by his fans for the standout singles “Fool” and “Best Friend,” available now on streaming services.
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with the actor/singer about what he has been up to lately and more.
Music Bugle – What was the moment that made you want to become a singer?
Jake Katzman – My mom said I would hum music tunes before I learned to talk. I remember always singing. It was just something I did. I was in Broadway for three years and I was inspired to start writing music and practice to get better.
Music Bugle – How would you compare music to acting?
Jake Katzman – Both music and acting let you use your creative skills. As an artist in both acting and singing, you make creative decisions and how you want to express the character or the song.
Music Bugle – What are your favorite types of projects to work on?
Jake Katzman – I love all types of projects and projects that challenge me. When I am challenged, I grow and get better. I am always learning. If you are willing to learn, you will evolve in anything you want to do.
Music Bugle – Which musical instrument do you prefer to play?
Jake Katzman – This is a hard question. I like piano because I use it to write music. Drums are so much fun because I can play different general types of music. I could jam on them for hours! I play guitar for fun.
Music Bugle – What do you attribute your streaming success to, so far?
Jake Katzman – I think I am honest with my music. I write songs about real experiences, so it relates to people. I stay true to myself and I am not afraid to try different sounds and take risks.
Music Bugle – What was it like getting to play Young Charlie in Broadway’s “Kinky Boots”?
Jake Katzman – It was an amazing experience to grow up on stage. I was in four different school grades during my run on Broadway. I got to work with amazing people and it gave me so many opportunities to perform on stage and other projects. I made friends for life! There nothing like performing live. It is the best!
Music Bugle – Who was your favorite celebrity to get to work with?
Jake Katzman – There were so many. Billy Porter and Brendon Urie gave me amazing advice and are super nice. Rory Culkin in the movie “Materna” was fun. Everyone I worked with, I am thankful for.
Music Bugle – Does social media help or hurt musicians?
Jake Katzman – To be honest, social media gives you a platform to get your music out there. You used have to have a record deal and your for people to hear your music. I grated to have opportunities to share my music, especially during a pandemic.
Music Bugle – How have you been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?
Jake Katzman – I think everyone one was affected by the pandemic. Mostly, I feel sad for people who lost their lives and for their families. School and socializing was different, but I was lucky I could create music during that time. I built a music studio in my room. I got vaccinated and hope we can end COVID-19.
Music Bugle – What has been your hardest challenge lately?
Jake Katzman – Balance. I want to do and experience everything. I need more hours in the day. Education is important to me, so planning out time to study, create music and acting is challenging. I recently started to stream on Twitch. Find me @jakecruzin!
