Wow! Your new song "Underbelly" and its accompanying music video are really powerful and the music video displays a lot of vulnerability. What is the story behind this song?
Joyeur: Thank you so much. This song is exposing yourself to someone despite the fear of rejection and hurt. You become vulnerable to attack and abandonment, but by revealing your underbelly, you allow someone to really see you—to really love you. Shedding layers of trauma and fear is so liberating, but it takes courage to love yourself and let someone love you. The video really personifies that.
In the past, you've mentioned your struggles with rediscovering your voice. What did that journey teach you about yourself and your goals as an artist?
Joyeur: Losing my voice was like losing myself. I’ve always sung, but when it became technical for me, I developed a mental block. It taught me that I’d rather be imperfect than not sing at all. I’d rather be present, than perfect. Getting out of my head was getting out of my own way—and I think that’s the case with my career. Visualize and get out of the way.
With frequent collaboration with Anna Feller, how have you developed alongside each other, both as individuals and professional partners, in the industry?
Joyeur: Anna and I definitely found more creative freedom in the last 2 years while making this album. Being separated by Covid challenged how we collaborated and we each had to lean into our strengths which enabled us to feel more empowered creatively both as individuals and as partners.
What has your experience been like as part of the LA music scene?
Joyeur: Ironically, I had felt somewhat isolated as a musician in LA until Covid. During the pandemic, I started connecting more with fellow artists online. I feel like there’s a huge awakening in artists right now—an understanding of the value of art, community, and the creator economy. It’s a pretty powerful time to be an artist!
When did you know you wanted to be an artist?
Joyeur: I can’t remember not wanting to be an artist. I’ve been pretending to sing the national anthem at the Olympics since I was a kid! I recorded my first EP at 12, but had a traumatic experience and withdrew from music until my twenties.
What do you like to do outside of music?
Joyeur: I’m arts and crafts obsessed. So you’ll find me making a top out of scrunchies or bejeweling objects in my house.
Interviewed By Hannah Conkin
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