Today we’d like to introduce you to Jared Silva.
Hi Jared, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my business back in 2017 as a freelance writer, and around that time, I also wanted to launch a T-shirt line featuring my own logo under the name “Mister Jinrai”—a stage name I created years ago. The name was inspired by the Japanese version of Transformers, where Optimus Prime was called Godmaster God Ginrai. Honestly, I’ve never really liked my real name. I used to feel frustrated that my parents didn’t give me a Japanese name, so Mister Jinrai became a way for me to reclaim part of that identity.
The early years weren’t easy. I was working a full-time day job—still am, actually—and trying to build something on the side. In 2017, I set out to write a fiction novel, and by 2018, I had also published a non-fiction book. Over time, people kept asking if I’d ever return to music. So in 2021, I picked it back up and started teaching ukulele. I taught at a private school and worked with Murphy Guitars, juggling about 16 to 20 students at my peak.
But when there was another COVID resurgence, I started losing students. It became clear that the private school wasn’t financially sustainable for me, so I left. The guitar shop could only offer limited space, and most people didn’t want lessons on weekends. After talking it through with my girlfriend, we decided to start hosting lessons at home.
By March 2024, though, I had lost nearly all my students and was struggling to book new gigs. That winter, I shifted gears again—this time back into songwriting. I started using AI to help refine and build out my ideas, even creating virtual bands. That’s how Jinrai’s House of Music was born. As of now, I’ve released six singles under that project.
At this point, I’ve published over 30 puzzle books, two novels, designed 50 to 60 T-shirts, and created more digital content than I can count. I’ve recently started pivoting toward electronic music production, using new instruments and technology to keep things fresh. I’ve also decided to pause my teaching for now—to make space for creativity again. Honestly, I was starting to feel stuck, playing the same songs over and over. This new direction feels like the creative reset I needed.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I can’t say it’s been a smooth ride.
Back in early 2020, things got especially tough. I started having serious back issues, and one day, my back completely gave out. I was diagnosed with a bulging disc and nerve damage in my right leg. Trying to run a business while dealing with that was overwhelming—especially with the added stress of not knowing if I’d be able to earn any money. I ended up on disability for nearly seven months, and the first three months, I couldn’t even walk.
Being stubborn, I refused to get surgery—especially with COVID going on at the time. I just didn’t feel safe putting myself through that, and I wanted to find another way to heal.
Another challenge was cultural. Living in Utah, I learned pretty quickly that most people here don’t see the ukulele as a serious instrument. They treat it more like a toy, and trying to change that perception was mentally exhausting. Every day felt like an uphill battle—trying to prove the value of something I knew had depth and history, especially coming from a place like Hawaii where it’s deeply respected.
I also struggled with getting people to connect with my brand. People would compliment my logo and designs, but they weren’t always willing to support financially. I made a real effort to collaborate with local businesses—I wanted to support the local scene and hoped they’d support me in return—but sometimes things just don’t pan out the way you hope.
Live performances were slow, and things felt stagnant. That’s when I got into crafting as another creative outlet. I started making paracord accessories while making advertisements for the business.
Mentally, it was a lot—physical pain, financial uncertainty, creative frustration—but I kept going. That resilience has become a big part of my story.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a solo musician—ukulele, guitar, vocals. A lot of what I’ve done over the years has been rooted in the music I grew up with in Hawaii: songs that feel like home. I’m probably best known for my fast strumming, my loud voice (in a good way!), and the humor I bring to performances. My friend Rex used to tell me I had a voice built for big bands, and that always stuck with me.
I don’t claim to specialize in any one thing. What I do have is curiosity—the kind that pushes me to ask, “What if I tried this another way?” I like reimagining songs in different directions instead of doing things the same way every time. That mindset keeps my music fresh and fun, even for me.
One of my proudest achievements was becoming a brand ambassador for Klos Guitars. After reaching out to so many companies over the years and being overlooked, they were the first to really say yes to me. That meant everything—it felt like someone finally saw what I had to offer as an artist.
What sets me apart isn’t technical perfection or flashy success—it’s the fact that I don’t quit. A lot of artists walk away when it gets hard, but I’ve learned that sometimes you just need to shift your perspective. Maybe the business side isn’t working right now—so make it a hobby again. Create for yourself first. If you love it, put it out into the world and let it find who it’s meant to reach.
In the end, I believe this: Art doesn’t need permission. It just needs a creator brave enough to make it real.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
silvauke@gmail.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jaredsilva.mymusicstaff.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mister_jinrai/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@misterjinrai5484
- Other: https://Linker.ee/jinrai_8085
