Jett Jenkins is a Texas based indie pop artist who layers dreamy, colorful production behind heavy lyricism. With stylings residing somewhere between Billie Eilish and Blondie, this poignant singer-songwriter leaned into her passions after having an inspirational experience at a Clairo concert. Years of playing the guitar and performing in musical theater prepared this emerging artist to dive into her music career; her debut E.P. is described as relatable, emotional, and delivering “lyrics beyond her years.” Alongside her debut in music, Jenkins is preparing to make the transition into young adulthood as she anticipates the move from home to college. This promising powerhouse makes a show-stopping introduction in her first single, “City In Anger,” in which she captivates listeners with passionate vocals, invigorating instrumentation, and lyrics steeped in melancholy. Jett Jenkins, with her spellbinding charisma, is on track to find a home on the playlist of indie-pop lovers for years to come.
When did you make up your mind that you wanted to be a musician?
I was one of those kids that tried everything and even if I failed, I just tried harder and kept going. I had what I thought was a pretty normal childhood, until my father committed suicide as I was just going into ninth grade. It was a very difficult time for me and my family. I was very close to my Dad, and I couldn’t figure out any way to express my feelings and so I started writing music. I lived in my bedroom playing guitar.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans.
I love replying to comments and messages on social media!
What’s the biggest highlight of your career thus far?
I hit 50k streams on Joyride on Spotify and that was so crazy to me that so many people heard my song.
Is there a hidden meaning in any of your music?
I feel like my music is very straightforward. The only thing hidden in it i’d say are the people they’re about. Most of my released music is about my dad but some are about people I don’t think I’ll ever name.
Which famous musicians have you learned from?
Fiona Apple! Her music and just herself have taught me so much about being vulnerable in music.
What makes a performance/song good? How do you judge a performance/song?
Whenever I see someone perform live it’s always so much more fun when they are comfortable and having fun too.
How often and for how long do you practice?
I practice vocal for 30 minutes each day and have lessons twice a week. I also always listen to music and sing with it on higher pitches.
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to sing as a career?
Before releasing my music I wish someone had told me that it takes patience, to not be afraid, to keep going, do what YOU want and like, and not let anyone stop you from going for what you want. I mean my mom told me all of this and has always supported me, but I guess I’m just saying that I really should have listened to her and not my own negative self-talk.
Who helped you most in your journey?
Definitely my mom. She has worked so hard as my manager to help get all the business side of my music. I’ll always be grateful for her and her work for me. I really value her creative input as well.
What would you do differently if you were to start over again from day one?
Definitely be more confident in my music when it first came out. I was very shy and wanted to keep it lowkey but I’m a lot more confident in my own music now.
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
I hope my music touches someone that might be hurting. I hope to help erase the awful stigma of suicide and be an advocate for mental health. I have such a positive outlook on my future and just want everyone else to have hope as well. Everyone has stuff that happens to them. I still feel pretty lucky and fortunate to be where I am today. Music was a big part of my life growing up and it turned out to be healing.
How would your peers describe you in the music industry?
I think I’m definitely open and vulnerable in my music. I feel I share my emotions very plainly in my lyrics.
How would the people closest to you describe you outside of the industry?
I’d say intrigued. My best friend recently told someone that I “love intellectual conversations and will school you in it”.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music?
I never stuck to one thing, I always combined and moved from one thing to another. I would describe myself as a singer-songwriter- psychologist- activist. I may not be a professional psychologist but I have a yearning to learn about psychology and help others with that knowledge. I want to combine music I love and music I’ve made myself with my want to help others.
LINK TREE: https://linktr.ee/jettjenkinsmusic
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