Ellington

If it was possible for Prince and Muddy Waters to conceive a musical prodigy, the end result would be Jeremy Girdle--artistically known as Erem Dle (urm da-lae). Girdle, 34 and a Jackson native, is no stranger to exquisite style or funk; he's been a creative jukebox and beat-making machine since middle school.

Even though it is grounded deeply in blues and funk, Girdle's music is a cumulating combustion of punk, rock, jazz, blue grass, hip-hop and techno as well. One can expect to hear an array of sounds when listening to Erem Dle's music: smooth jazz, funky hip-hop beats, a little bit of bass guitar, and hardcore blues.

As a self-taught guitarist and keyboardist, Girdle has worked for two decades to get noticed in the music world. His determination and passion for music led him to New York City in 2005. After two years Girdle returned to Mississippi and since then his musically career has been on a slow but steady upward spiral, from performing for his childhood neighborhood on Easter Sunday to Zoo Blues in 2013. Girdle is no stranger to Jackson's music scene; he has performed at more than a dozen clubs and shared the stage with some of Mississippi's blues greats since 2001.

What led you to be a musician?

My father. He worked two jobs when I was growing up, and whenever he got off late he would play "oldies but goodies" all night long. I went to sleep listening to blues and funk. So, at a young age I was exposed to blues and funk. I knew I would be involved with music; it was the only thing that provided me with an avenue for creativity and expression.

When did you realize you had a gift for music?

In 1985, I started a rap group with one my homeboys in middle school. I was the beat man, since my mother had brought me a SK-5 machine when I was 12. When we made our first recording, I knew then that music was my calling. I haven't found anything else to replace my motivation in life. I've been making music since the '80s. It's my thing. It's what drives me. I've a musician for almost 20 years now.

How would you describe your music style?

One word ... funky. Other than be funky, it's more like instrumental jazz on a slow night and heart pounding techno on a live night. My music is a combination of all the types of music I listen to. I'm 100 percent authentic. I'm free to do whatever is interesting to me which is everything.

What artists are reflections of your musical style?

Prince, James Brown, Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, DJ Magic Mike, DJ Fatboy Slim, Sunny boy Williams and Kenny G.

What is the biggest sacrifice you've made as an artist?

Moving to New York (City) for two years and staying in my van. That was major. New York was amazing, and it was a great opportunity for me to perfect my craft and expose my music. At the same time it was hard. I was so vulnerable as an artist, because I knew no one and I worked only a minimum-wage job. After a while, I couldn't take living in my van for another New York winter. But, I appreciate New York; I learned so much about myself as a person and I met and worked with some amazing artists.

What was it like performing at Zoo Blues this year?

It was cool, I believe every chance I get to show case my music is an opportunity for me. I'm grateful that the Jackson Zoo allowed me to perform. This was the first performance I had where the sound was actually "professional."

For more information on Erem Dle, find him on Facebook or visit eremdle.com.