An advertising jingle contest could deliver a high note for the career of Panorama City musician Jordyn Dodd. He and Stephen James from Los Angeles are finalists in a music video competition sponsored by Folgers, the coffee brand owned by J.M. Smucker Co. The contest asked musicians to create a new version of the brand’s song, “The Best Part of Wakin’ Up Is Folgers in Your Cup.” Dodd and James were already collaborating on an album when the contest came along. Dodd took the assignment as a challenge to keep the melody but alter the message to appeal to a younger generation of consumers. “The focus was to find a balance between fresh and familiar,” he said. The pair produced a short music video in which the two musicians attempt to write a song but are stumped for inspiration until Folgers perks them up. “Coffee, being such a huge part of the studio life, pretty much comes in and saves us from an energy crash and writer’s block,” James explained. As one of five finalists, the pair already received a mentoring session with country music star Chris Young. His advice, Dodd said, was to “keep on the path that we’re already on and collaborate as much as possible.” Dodd added that the Folgers video exemplifies how linking with other creative minds can lead to new ideas and opportunities. The contest winner was determined by consumers who could watch all five videos and vote online. Voting ended April 24 and the winner will be announced May 8. The winner will receive a $25,000 prize. “Music for me is not just a hobby, it’s a calling and a profession,” Dodd said. “I’d like to pour (the prize money) back into the music. That means equipment, upcoming music, visuals, mixing, mastering and promotion.” Regardless of the vote tally, Dodd feels the contest has helped promote his name – and his advertising career may not be over yet. “Folgers has given us an awesome platform,” he said. “The best way I can show my gratitude is to use that platform to continue to promote love, positivity and fun through music. I’d love to pitch a few more jingles to them as well.” – Joel Russell
