5 questions with Jason Castro

by Nikki M. Mascali
Weekender Editor

You may recognize Jason Castro as the dreadlocked former “American Idol” season seven contestant, but he holds an even bigger honor than just coming in fourth last year. Castro was the first “Idol” ever to play an instrument on the show, playing a guitar — and then a ukulele.

In between playing shows at malls across the country — including one at the Mall at Steamtown — Castro stopped by 98.5 KRZ’s Spotlight Lounge Wednesday morning to play a 3-song acoustic set before a group of 20 winning listeners. The soft-spoken singer/songwriter played three songs from his upcoming album: the new single “Let’s Just Fall In Love Again,” “That’s What I’m Here For” and a stunning rendition of “Hallelujah,” which he had covered on “American Idol.” Originally scheduled to come out in November, Castro’s debut was recently pushed back to a January release date.

After his performance, Castro sat down to answer these burning questions from the Weekender.

Weekender: Why go the mall tour route?

Castro: I’m just trying to be out as much as possible before the record comes out and an official tour starts. This is a cool way to see fans, play songs and hang out in a more casual, open setting.

Weekender: What’s been the craziest post-“Idol” moment?

Castro: It’s all kind of like a dream still, but I think it was all crazy! Moving to L.A., having a record deal, it’s pretty out of this world.

Weekender: You have a Bob Dylan-esque kind of voice. Who are your influences?

Castro: Definitely singer/songwriters, more rootsy music, plus modern stuff like Ray LaMontagne and Ben Harper — he’s kind of influenced my sound with his organic sound — and stuff like Tom Petty. I’m influenced by a lot of things, and I’m inspired by any music.

Weekender: Where do you see yourself in five years?

Castro: On the road playing another show, hopefully!

Weekender: What’s the hardest part of maintaining your hair?

Castro: Keeping the scissors away from it! Every now and then I say, “Hey, cut them off, I’m trying to sleep.”

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