JESSIA

Interview & Article by Brittany Ormiston

Canadian singer/songwriter JESSIA is the girl next door you rant to about awkward moments, growing up, and boy trouble. She is never one to judge, but will certainly tell you like it is through in-person conversations and her songwriting. JESSIA’s newest single ‘Care About Me’ is a heart-wrenching ballad with lyricism depicting the moments where a relationship is crumbling in front of your eyes in slow motion. She wrote the track while in a dark place, and on tour in the Philippines. Despite the somber lyrics, the production has an uplifting aura to it that translates with each listen. ‘Care About Me’ is JESSIA’s favorite song she has ever released, and fans have shared their own interpretations based on the track. 

Comments on JESSIA’s social media posts tell stories of relationships with significant others, friendships, and even parents that have made fans feel inferior and less than. However, listening to ‘Care About Me’ has been a three minute therapy session for fans who are struggling. The lyrics of the bridge depict turning over a new leaf, and when you “get the apology to yourself for putting up with the bare minimum.” The track launches a new beginning in a way, and displays a level of self-awareness because you are realizing a change needs to take place. “When listeners hear it, I hope they are feeling seen, know they are not alone, and that it is okay to ask for what you deserve,” shares JESSIA. With her music as a whole, JESSIA wants supporters to feel as if she is having coffee with them, run-on sentences and all. She sets out to create songs for moods all over the map, such as ‘He’s A 10’ for a little dance party, and ‘I’m not Pretty’ when you are not feeling quite like yourself and need a bear hug. 

When creating, JESSIA typically pulls inspiration from her own experiences, those of her friends, and even television shows and movies (thanks Ryan Tedder [lead vocalist of One Republic]). She is currently listening to Radiohead, Coldplay, and Djo with ‘Roddy’ by Djo being on repeat and her “song of the summer.” When asked who inspires her, JESSIA is quick to mention Miley Cyrus, Pink, and Julia Michaels. All of these artists are playing a role in shaping the current music she is making in one way or another. Djo’s recent success has given JESSIA more perspective, and she keeps the thought of  “music has a lifetime to be seen” in the back of her head. Good things do come to those who wait and persevere with authenticity at the forefront of it all.

JESSIA’s main focus is to be transparent and create music that excites her because without those aspects there is no point. She carries this mindset when searching for artists to collaborate with. Elijah Woods is one of the artists she knew would fit well into her vision. “Elijah Woods is like my brother…We both want what is best for the song. Honestly, he is my go-to when I have an idea and am stuck on a word,” laughs JESSIA. One of her first friends when moving to LA was “2024 Elvis,” aka Spencer Sutherland, and he made her feel right at home instantly. Her remix on his song ‘Everybody’ allowed her to “let loose,” and try a different style of music compared to her own. JESSIA is so incredibly thankful for the time spent with the artists she has worked with, and has learned more than she imagined. 

JESSIA is checking off even more boxes this year with new music on the horizon. She has fully honed in on her new project, which will most likely be an EP. Sonically it is similar to ‘Care About Me,’ and this track is a “good landing pad” for what to expect with her new body of work. With her portable recording studio in tow, JESSIA will be touring later this year and she is as ecstatic as ever. “Touring is amazing to be able to meet all the fans and see who you are writing these songs for,” shares JESSIA. Being immersed in the different cultures is what she treasures the most. As JESSIA’s global fan base continues to flourish, her unapologetic artistry will uplift those who listen and empower them to practice more self-love. At the end of the day, everyone is a 10.