The J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute and the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts’ Popular Music Program are delighted to host Jesse Valenzuela, founding member of the multi-platinum group the Gin Blossoms. Jesse will be participating in a full schedule of events at Fusion on First on ASU’s Downtown Phoenix Campus, Sept. 26 to 30 and Nov. 14 to 18, 2022.
You might recognize his work from the cult favorite film, “Empire Records” — the Gin Blossoms’ hit single, “Till I Hear it From You,” was a mainstay of the nineties. From establishing the band right here, in Phoenix 35 years ago, to going into business for himself as a solo musician, Jesse has demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit over his multi-decade career. He is continuing to impact and strengthen the industry by sharing his expertise with the next generation of creative entrepreneurs.
Join us and Jesse at Fusion on First. To get involved and find future opportunities, follow the Edson E+I and ASU Popular Music social media channels.
September Schedule of Events
September 26, 2022, 5 p.m.
Storytelling Session | Meet & Greet
Fusion on First Flex Space
Open to the public
September 27, 2022, 4:30 p.m.
Listening | Feedback Session
Fusion on First Flip Kitchen
Current ASU students can apply to receive feedback on their music here.
Open to the public
September 28, 2022, 10 a.m.
Coworking & Coffee
Fusion on First Coworking Space
September 29, 2022, 11 a.m.
Office Hours
Fusion on First Coworking Space
Sign up here.
September 30, 2022, 1 p.m.
Office Hours
Fusion on First Coworking Space
Sign up here.
November schedule of events to be announced soon.
About Jesse Valenzuela
As a founding member of the Gin Blossoms, Jesse Valenzuela was responsible for writing or co-writing five of the band’s Top 40 hits, including the #1 single “Til I hear it from you”. As a songwriter and performer Valenzuela has sold in excess of 10 million records worldwide.
In addition to his career in the Gin Blossoms, Jesse has written, produced and performed with a wide-ranging variety of artists including Stevie Nicks, KISS, Judy Collins, The Calling, Los Lobos and The Rembrandts, among others.
His songs have been featured prominently in countless films, including “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” “Speed,” “Drill Bit Taylor,” “Wayne’s World,” and “Empire Records” among many others. Jesse has written extensively for TV, including the theme to the CTV hit show “Corner Gas”, had one of his songs used during a halftime spot on the 2008 Summer Olympics broadcast on NBC, and has scored several shows for the Travel Channel. In addition, his songs have been featured in varied television shows ranging from “Friends” to “Cold Case”.
