Photograph courtesy of Sound Better
For Jesse Johnson Jr., music has always been about more than creating songs. It’s about creating opportunities.
As the founder of LIVEJESSELIVE, LLC, Jesse has spent years developing a creative ecosystem that helps independent artists grow their careers while maintaining ownership of their work.
Operating from Midtown St. Louis, LIVEJESSELIVE combines music production, engineering, visual arts, broadcasting, publishing administration, and artist development under one roof. The goal is simple: give artists the tools, knowledge, and support they need to succeed without sacrificing their future.
Photograph courtesy of instagram
But like many entrepreneurs, turning a vision into a sustainable business comes with challenges.
Building and maintaining a professional studio environment, investing in equipment, developing a 24/7 digital broadcast platform, and creating opportunities for artists all require resources. Jesse knew that to continue growing LIVEJESSELIVE and serving the creative community, he needed a financial partner that understood both entrepreneurship and long-term impact.
That’s where Justine PETERSEN came in.
Through its small-business lending and technical assistance programs, Justine PETERSEN provided Jesse with the support he needed to strengthen and expand his business. More than financing, the partnership offered encouragement and resources that allowed him to stay focused on his mission of artist empowerment.
“Justine PETERSEN believed in what I was building,” Jesse shared.
“They saw the value in creating opportunities for artists and helping small businesses grow. Their support has allowed me to continue investing in my vision and the people I serve.”
LIVEJESSELIVE continues to grow as a creative hub where artists can record music, develop their brands, learn the business side of the industry, and gain exposure through the company’s innovative 24/7 YouTube broadcast. By offering a fair and collaborative model, Jesse is helping creators understand the value of ownership while providing them with real pathways to profitability.
For Jesse, the partnership with Justine PETERSEN represents more than access to capital. It represents the ability to continue doing the work he loves—helping artists build sustainable careers and creating opportunities within the St. Louis creative community.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep moving forward,” Jesse said. “Every day I get to help artists tell their stories, build their brands, and create something meaningful. That’s what drives me.”
As LIVEJESSELIVE continues to evolve, Jesse remains committed to the vision that started it all: empowering creators, building community, and proving that independent artists can succeed with the right support behind them.
At Justine PETERSEN, we’re proud to support entrepreneurs like Jesse Johnson Jr., who are using their talents, creativity, and determination to strengthen communities and create opportunities for others.