By Tanyika Armstrong (Entertainment News) | Jacksonville Free Press | When I reached local artist Quail by phone ahead of his upcoming performance at the Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair, his tone was calm yet honest—like someone who’s been through enough life to understand what truly matters.
“I’m a person that has been through all types of hardships and finally accepted the person that I truly am,” he shared early in our conversation. “It took time, isolation, and faith to find that peace.”
Raised in Macclenny, Florida, just outside Jacksonville, Quail’s journey into music didn’t come easy. For years, he was known more for his athletic ability than his artistic talent. “I was a running back at Georgia State University,” he explained. “I thought that was my path. But when the pandemic hit and everything stopped, I realized I needed to focus on what I truly love—music.”
Though musically inclined since age 12, he concealed that part of himself, unsure if others would understand. “I kept my music hidden for years because I thought I was supposed to be an athlete,” he admitted. “But over time, music became the thing that gave me peace.”
At 26 years old, Quail describes his sound as a blend of styles: “I’d say it’s a mix of pop, blues, and a little country. My songs are soulful—they’re about expression and experience.”
The decision to leave college and pursue music wasn’t always met with support. “Everybody in my family knew me as the football player,” he said. “When I dropped out, a lot of them thought I was making the biggest mistake of my life. But I kept my faith in God. I’m very spiritual, and I trusted that if I followed my purpose, things would align.”
His family—especially his mother’s side, which includes twelve sisters and five brothers—has grown to respect his vision as they witness his progress. “I had to step out on faith even when they didn’t fully understand,” he said.
Today, Quail writes all his lyrics and collaborates with musicians to build his sound. “I don’t record someone else’s song and make it mine. My spirit wouldn’t allow it. Everything I write comes from what I’ve lived.”
His creative process is emotion-based and starts with simplicity. “It usually begins with a guitar loop and a vibe. Once the vocals are laid down, we build the full track around it.”
After years refining his identity, Quail now embraces artistic authenticity. He draws influence from artists like Adele and Miguel, but says his true inspiration is “great music—the kind that hits you once and stays with you.”
This was his first performance at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds, and he embraced it as more than a milestone. “It’s bigger than me performing,” he said. “It’s about showing the youth that you don’t have to carry negativity to be successful. You can spread light.”
When asked who he’d collaborate with, he quickly named E.J. Jones. “He pushes positive, real music—and that’s what I want to bring to the world.”
Looking ahead, 2026 will be a major year. “Expect an album,” he confirmed. “There will be more visuals, maybe some artistic projects, even a little acting. It’s all about expanding and spreading good energy.”
One of his proudest achievements so far was quitting his day job to pursue music full-time. “Being able to wake up and say, ‘This is what I do’—that’s a blessing.”
To young artists seeking their path, his advice is direct:
“Don’t be a follower. Stay positive. Keep your intentions pure. And keep God in your life—that’s a weapon that can’t be destroyed.”
Outside of music, Quail reveals surprising talents: solving Rubik’s cubes, cooking, former sketch artist, weapons collector, and even knowing some Spanish from past jobs. “I’m just versatile like that,” he laughed.
His favorite place to eat locally? Goodfellas Pizza and Wings.
His first purchased album was Drake’s Take Care, though he credits his sister for introducing him to legendary 90s R&B like SWV, TLC, Destiny’s Child and Lauryn Hill.
Among his own songs, two hold special meaning: I’m Good and What You Got.
“What You Got spread around the world with no promotion. That song helped me understand what I was capable of.”
As our interview closed, I told him I planned to attend his performance and capture photos. “Thank you,” he said sincerely. “I really appreciate the opportunity.”
Live Performance Recap – Jacksonville Fairgrounds | I attended Quail’s show on November 14th and was pleasantly surprised. The crowd responded with strong energy from start to finish. His lyrics were authentic and relatable, and the full live band—featuring guitars, drums and piano—brought depth to every moment. Fans lined up for photos afterward, and I was able to meet and take a picture with him and his band, confirming that the passion he speaks of translates powerfully on stage.