Hey Jennifer, How did you get into music?
I started singing and writing music around the age of 4. I started performing through church and school groups and then was really active in drama and worship as a teenager.
Who are some of your musical influences?
I am very eclectic with music. My biggest influence has always been Reba McEntire. I also listened to Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Martina McBride. I loved 90’s grunge – so bands like Nirvana and Soundgarden were my go-to bands. Tom Petty and The Eagles and later years Chicago also had an influence on my style.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
To find my own voice. I grew up imitating and learning from so many singers. I thought that you had to sound like x, y, or z in order to be heard. People gravitate toward real. You cannot get anywhere long term by trying to be someone else.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Life. Most of my songs were written from my processing real-life situations and struggles. I write when I am upset. I write when I am trying to make sense of the world around me. There is always some truth to the story I’m telling.
What are your thoughts on the current state of the music industry?
Honestly, my mind about this industry changes daily. I think over time, the music industry has become more about money and business than human expression and art. There is an influx of copycat artists in many genres these days that are trying to ride a trend and are not being authentic. Music is always changing and I eventually there will be a return to storytellers and truth.
What’s the story behind your latest single, ”Trigger Warning”?
Trigger warnings have become a part of culture today. If you scroll through social media, you constantly see a post with a “Trigger Warning” because the content may cause some type of emotional distress. The same can be true of people. I had a person in my life that seemed to bring out every insecurity and trauma in me. I needed to stay away, but like a moth to a flame, I always returned and got hurt. Had they had a “Trigger Warning” plastered on their forehead, maybe I would have never ventured down that road.
Why should people listen to it?
Life is complicated. I wanted the feel of this song to reflect the internal chaos that was going on when I was around this person. I think most people have experienced and can relate to the words I share…but if not, take this song of my experience as an example and a warning to trust your gut.
How do you know when a work is finished?
My first thought is I’m a perfectionist and therefore, most of my songs are always a continued work in progress. I change lyrics and try new takes on my songs constantly. However, I know that a song is ready to share when I have an emotional response to it. When I stop focusing on all the elements and possible imperfections and instead just want to share the message…it’s finished.
What are your favorite musical genres, and are there any you dislike?
The only thing I probably would never choose to listen to would be something like polka. My favorites are 90’s country, pop, classic rock, adult contemporary or top 40, contemporary Christian and worship…even 90’s Hip Hop and Rap.
Would you like to say anything to emerging artists?
Stay humble. You always can learn something. Every person I have ever met has taught me something….sometimes it’s how to never act. Never think you are too good to ask questions and learn.
