5. Creating from the Dark: Art, Identity, and Embracing Your Own Path with Jorge Valentine

In this episode, I sit down with Jorge Valentine, an indie alt-rock artist who’s reshaping his sound—and his story—through emotional honesty and creative evolution. We talk about his move from Mexico to Milwaukee, how music helped him process a painful divorce, and why building systems has given him more freedom as an artist. From his early days navigating social anxiety to his current project VLNTYN, Jorge is proving that authenticity and strategy don’t have to be at odds. Whether you’re struggling to share your story or just trying to find your people, this one’s for anyone creating their own lane—one lyric, post, or open mic at a time.We Chat About:The dark themes that shaped his music—and his healingWhy he rebranded as VLNTYN and leaned into an alt-rock aestheticThe artists that shaped his sound: Bright Eyes, Brand New, Elliott SmithHow he’s balancing emotional storytelling with digital marketingNavigating insecurity, social anxiety, and feeling “too old” to startHis experience with fitness, discipline, and building creative systemsThe powerful shift from survival-mode songwriting to intentional creationAbout Jorge Valentine:Jorge Valentine is a Milwaukee-based musician who creates emotionally charged indie alt-rock under the name VLNTYN. Drawing inspiration from artists like Bright Eyes and Brand New, his music blends haunting melodies with introspective lyrics that explore grief, transition, and self-acceptance. A lifelong songwriter, Jorge is also a personal trainer and systems thinker, building the foundation of his artistry with intention and resilience. His latest releases reflect the duality of darkness and hope—and his commitment to connecting with listeners who’ve been through it too.Connect with Jorge:TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@vlntynthebandYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vlntynthebandInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vlntyntheband/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@vlntyntheband?xmt=AQF0szyPSTku72AL7Jnxd6D3P66Cf58CJVTt30NX2QGKIrwSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3OaHjmFCcak0xwFVxIEvbV?si=listbVHZS0GWK7rlBkPmOQConnect with Julian:Check out the loves music podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL