Jonah Strong
Jonah’s an artist, creative director, and graphic designer getting after his dreams from Rochester, NY.
Never backing down from what others say or what the odds might look like, Jonah pushes past the noise with faith to believe nothing’s impossible. With 5 years in the industry, Jonah’s drive, creativity, and unique perspective has paved the way for the most epic opportunities. Whether it’s cover art, merch designs, zine’s, or overall branding, Jonah’s work is both captivating and impactful.
What dream are you currently turning into reality?
I want to be a full Creative Director in the music industry. I already design for a large number of artists, but I want to go further than that. I want to have control in things like music video direction, tour visuals, and more. I wouldn’t mind working at a record label doing this stuff. I guess that’s a goal for the next 3 years.
I also have a brand I’m launching this year called ROOshop. We’ll have clothes, monthly zines, and playlists. So much is coming with ROO!
When did you first realize you discovered your dream?
I was sixteen. I used to make music. I still do sometimes, but I don’t think I could ever enjoy a career as a music artist. I needed cover arts and I decided to use the skills I was learning in an intro to photoshop class to make single covers. I got to a point where I was coming up with song concepts just for the covers. That's when I knew.
My love for music kept growing throughout college. I think guys like Cole Bennett and Dewey Saunders have inspired me the most to never have to wear a tie at work.
How does your faith go hand in hand with pursuing your dream?
I was raised on Christian music. It was the biggest thing that kept my faith in my teen years. As a teen, it was so dope for me to have clean music talking about what I believed in that still looked and sounded dope.
I’ve always believed that music for the King should have the greatest presentation possible. I want to do that for the next me. Christian hip hop gave me so much confidence in high school and I would hate for the visuals to be corny. It’s beyond covers. The same goes for music videos and merch.
I 100% believe that God put me on this earth to create.
What’s one or two practical steps you take to keep moving forward?
I like keeping in contact with other designers and creatives who are further ahead than me. It’s important to keep yourself surrounded with individuals who will push you towards a working mindset.
Networking is the only way I’ve found opportunities are given in this industry. I have major adhd, and I still haven’t found a way of scheduling that keeps me on a pattern.
You’ll 100% catch me sending business emails and writing ROOshop campaigns at 5am not having slept yet. I think spontaneity is both a strength of my art and a weakness in business. I can’t wait to be able to afford a manager!
What encouragement would you share with someone who’s going after their dream?
Just because someone else never became something great doesn’t mean you can’t. If you truly believe in yourself, you’ll look like a fool to many until you quietly start presenting numbers. Whether its followers, money, or streams - Whatever area it is you’re trying to pull ahead of the rest of them in.
I’m constantly warned of being “safer”, that I should remember only the 1% is successful. Manifest to be the 1%. Someone has to take this position. Not everyone is cut out for their dream. Some people have amazing natural talent but don’t want to put in their 10,000 hours. Others learn skills and put the time in. Don’t be afraid to be the other person in this scenario.