Meet AJ Montana Keyser

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful AJ Montana Keyser. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with AJ Montana below.

Hi AJ Montana , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Well, I am nonbinary and that definitely makes me stand out in a room. I think I have just gotten used to haters and I don’t give into their behaviors anymore. Becoming more of a public figure everyday, I am going to have to deal with transphobia and homophobia more and more on my social media. I don’t let them affect me anymore because ultimately a reaction is what they’re looking for. Also, most of the time I am celebrated for who I am. I play at venues that are looking for diversity hires and celebrate uniqueness. I am successful for my voice and agility on multiple instruments all and all, not my gender.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Montana Sand is a group of multi-instrumentalists fronted by singer-songwriter AJ Montana Keyser. AJ is from Boulder, Colorado and has been playing professionally for over 8 years. The group draws their influence from a wide variety of genres, including but not limited to country, indie acoustic soul, folk, rock, bluegrass, and roots music; genres that have been the backbone to Denver’s music scene for decades. The group focuses on making music an inclusive space for all to be able to enjoy and relate to, as well as using music for mental health awareness. Montana Sand has opened for well known acts like Macklemore at Liv Golf Houston, Ryan Cassata at SXSW 2023 & Janelle Monae at SXSW 2024.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

I think determination, will power and building relationships were the three skills I needed the most while learning music. I had to be determined to make money and hustle a lot when I was a full time musician in Austin. I also had to be determined to practice to get better everyday for at least 2 hours everyday. I had will power to not give up on my dream no matter how many not amazing gigs I played. Lastly building relationships is the most important because without a good working dynamic you will never get hired. I would say if you don’t have these skills work on them because you need a lot of grit to make it in the arts and it usually takes decades before you are noticed.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

My parents, Diane and Andy Keyser signed me up for music lessons when I was 8. They helped me foster my passion throughout the years. They never gave up on me when I wanted to become a professional. They even drove me to most of my gigs in Colorado when I toured here. My mom helped me with merchandise while my dad helped as a roadie. They are very supportive of my music and I love them dearly.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

https://amuricatx.com/
https://www.kelsileigh.com/

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