Congratulations on the release of your new incredible single “Blame”!! Can you share your inspiration behind this new track?
Jess: Thanks so much that means the world to me! I wrote Blame alongside the brilliant Tully Gun. Initially I had written the song acoustically, but upon recording the track, myself and Tully decided to change up some of the lyrics by adding new verses and lyrics, and we thought it would sound much better with more elements of Pop!
The song is about picking yourself up when you fall down, and finding self love in letting go of people who no longer have your best interest at heart.
What does your creative process look like? Any tips or tricks for escaping a creative funk?
Jess: My creative process tends to vary, but most of the time when I’m writing songs I’ll come up with a melody idea first, and then add lyrics to that melody, or have lyric ideas or poetry that I’ve written down. I’ll then try to match the energy of the lyrics with complementary melodic influences, and chord patterns that bring the song to life!
I find when I’m having a period of creative funk, that it’s best not to put as much pressure on yourself, and to use other creative outlets or activities such as painting, going for a walk or even seeing a friend can help you break back into your cycle of creativity. I personally find that when you put too much pressure on writing or trying to come up with a catchy song, it can actually stunt your creativity. Music is like riding a bike, it comes naturally once you learn how to do it, but sometimes you fall off and struggle to get back on again, but you just have to get back up and keep pedaling until you’re back on track.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would you pick and why?
Jess: There are many brilliant artists that I’d absolutely love to work with, but I’d have to say the one artist that I would love to collaborate with on a track, would have to be Lana Del Rey as I find her music so ethereal and her lyrics are so beautifully written. I’ve always loved the way she writes, and her sound in general.
What are some of your favorite things to do when you’re not making music?
Jess: I love going out and experiencing life to the fullest, travelling to new places, going running or on long walks and being in nature. I also thoroughly enjoy sketching and painting because it was something I would do with my grandmother back in South Africa, as she is an incredible artist. I’ve also had a keen interest in filmmaking and directing since a young age, and vintage style photography.
Where do you hope to see your career in five years?
Jess: I hope to see myself my family and my friends happy, and be in a place where my music can reach more people and resonate with them, whilst uplifting and helping others find the words they wish to say.
Do you have any more upcoming projects you can discuss or hint at? I’m so excited to hear more from you!!
Jess: Thanks so much! I have a new song coming out very soon which is a cover of one of my favourite artists of all time, that I recorded with the brilliant Dave Skelton called
‘I think of you’ by Rodriguez! I can’t wait to share it as it’s such a special song to me and brings back so much nostalgia.
Interviewed By Sarah Curry
FOLLOW JESS: