Interview with Jordyn Sugar about “Fool of Me”

Hey Jordyn, can you provide us with a brief introduction to your musical journey and how you got started in the industry?

I started posting singing TikTok’s in May 2020, at this point no one knew I could sing. It was something I kept to myself but always had a deep passion for. I sang songs that I felt comfortable singing which happened to be artists such as Justin Bieber. On August 13th, 2020 Bieber reposted one of my TikTok’s to his Instagram story. It was one of the best moments of my life and the moment I knew I destined for this industry.

How do your personal experiences and background contribute to the unique flavor of your music?

I do my best to keep my music and sound as authentic to my true experiences and background as possible. I grew up listening to primarily classic rock from the 70s and 80s. Songs like “Summer High” are great examples of my influence from those 80s classics. As a multi-instrumentalist I’m able to give direction and input to my music.

“Fool of Me” is a captivating song. Could you take us through the creative process behind its inception?

Jordyn Sugar’s Fool of Me marks an awakening for the Artist. Not a romantic awakening, an experience covered by many past and present singers and songwriters, but rather an awakening to the cruelties of life. While her last song Stranger explored similar themes, including, betrayal, disloyalty, and an inability to forgive her transgressor, Fool of Me takes it to a new level. This is not your typical breakup song. Inspired by unrequited love between Jordyn and friend, and the inevitable coupling of that friend with another person in her inner circle, Fool of Me allowed Jordyn to take her singing and song writing to places she had never been. While her latest song illustrates her maturity, she still presents the same qualities inherent in her prior work. Jordyn’s beautiful mix of strength and vulnerability is a trademark in all her work. In its essence, Fool of Me allows her to grow without leaving all the great elements of her burgeoning catalogue of Pop Gems.

What themes or emotions did you want to convey through “Fool of Me,” and how did they manifest in the lyrics and melody?

Its no surprise that Jordyn began her career as a percussionist, picking up the drums at age 3. Her skills as a multi-instrumentalist gives a depth to her writing that you don’t often see. She can marry the power of the drum, with the eloquence of the piano. The odyssey she takes you on in Fool of Me will resonate with anyone who has suffered betrayal and public and/or personal shame, themes that many people can relate. The bridge, which was the inspiration for the song, is remnant of some classic power ballads. Inspired by many styles of music and musicians, Jordyn is a throwback who is fresh. She brings tinges of 70s and 80s female pop along with a soulfulness and smooth tone that is inherent in her vocal style. Some have called Jordyn the Gen Z version 90s Girl Power. Compared to some of todays more derivative artists she bridges that elusive gap between classic Pop, Rock, and Soul. But in spite of certain comparisons, Jordyn is a true original.

What was the most challenging aspect of bringing “Fool of Me” to life, and how did you overcome it?

Being able to convey the emotions in song that I felt personally. Making sure that the listeners feel the emotion and pain and feel what I’m feeling when expressing each lyric. I wrote “Fool Of Me” almost a year before I recorded it, so I had to put myself back to that moment, and really dig deep to bring that emotion to the song.

The song speaks about vulnerability. How do you see vulnerability as a powerful tool in connecting with your audience?

Showing your true emotions and being vulnerable shows my audience that it’s okay to put your whole self out there. I go through heartbreak just like anyone else would, so to tell my story, I hope it helps them get through their hard times and know that they are not alone.

Do you believe that sharing personal experiences through music can help create a sense of community and understanding among listeners?

Yes of course. Music is all about creating a feeling of unity and bringing people together from all around the world. I enjoy creating music that is personal to myself and my experience but that is universal enough so that anyone can relate to it.

Collaborating with a music icon like Gloria Gaynor is remarkable. How did this collaboration come about for your latest show?

I got the opportunity to be a part of this charity event called strangers in the night. Gloria Gaynor happened to be one of the headliners, and I was very fortunate enough to be able to be the opening act for her and several other musical icons. After Gaynor’s performance, I was lucky enough to be able to spend some one on one time with her. I was extremely star struck, and couldn’t believe that I was eating chicken wings with a two time Grammy winner and someone that I’ve looked up to my whole life. It was our passion for music that brought us together.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for your music career? Are there any particular milestones you’re aiming for?

My goal is truly to inspire others to step outside their comfort zone to face their fear and to just be themselves. You don’t have to meet society standards to fit in. I want my music to bring people together. The reason I love sharing my personal experiences in my music is that so others can relate if they’re going through similar situations.

If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring musicians, what would it be?

Stay true to yourself, and don’t change to fit it into the industries standards. Stay true, humble and hard-working.

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