Fresh off receiving the HER Music Award, JESSIA is reflecting on a journey that has taken her from writing songs in her bedroom in Vancouver to becoming one of pop’s most candid and relatable voices. Known for her fearless honesty and emotionally charged songwriting, the rising artist has built a devoted fanbase by saying the things many listeners feel but struggle to express. In this conversation, JESSIA opens up about the power of vulnerability in her music, the evolving role of social media in her career, empowering the next generation of female songwriters, and what fans can expect from the exciting new chapter ahead.
Congratulations on receiving the HER Music Award! What does this recognition mean to you at this point in your journey?
It is a huge honour. In such a male-dominated industry, it is so important to have these awards to recognize the powerhouse women who keep this industry afloat. I’m hoping this win inspires female songwriters to keep writing and keep talking about the real stuff in their songs.
You’ve always been incredibly open in your songwriting. Has your relationship with vulnerability changed as your audience has grown?
I think that’s what songwriting is about. I turn to the most vulnerable songs when I feel like life is loud, and I want to do the same. Being generic and censored is boring.
Many fans connect to your music because it feels like you’re saying the things they’re afraid to say out loud. How do you strike the balance between personal storytelling and universal themes?
I talk to my friends A LOT, and that shows me that my problems or experiences aren’t that different from most. We are all trying to navigate through this really weird life, and it’s my honour to share the inner thoughts.
Looking back at your breakout moment and comparing it to where you are now, how would you describe your artistic growth?
A: I think my biggest growth has been me as a businesswoman. I am still writing songs the way I did in my bedroom in Vancouver. The BTS of the music industry can be daunting and ever-changing. I think I’m a lot calmer and more confident than I was when I first started. There are so many hats we wear as artists, and I think after 5 years, I’m just starting to feel comfortable with it.
The HER Music Award celebrates empowerment and impact. In what ways do you hope your music empowers other women and young artists?
I hope to inspire the girls singing in front of their mirrors or posting on TikTok and getting 75 views. I was you once, and your wildest dreams can come true. It’s going to take an unimaginable amount of work, but you will get there. I want to inspire young songwriters to take the jump.
Social media played a big role in your early rise. How has your perspective on that platform evolved as your career has matured?
A: Social media platforms were not what they used to be. Yes, it is free advertising and an incredible tool, but numbers and followers aren’t everything. My advice to artists is if you believe in your music, post the shit out of it, but don’t be discouraged by the videos that don’t do as well. Keep posting, and something will stick.
When you’re in the studio now, what excites you most creatively — lyrics, melody, production, or something else entirely?
Lyricsssssss!! I love it when you get a line that just sums up everything so perfectly. There is no better feeling.
After this milestone moment, what’s next for you? What can fans expect from this new chapter of JESSIA?
I am releasing a new EP in a month!!! Follow on all socials @jessiamusic for all the updates!
https://www.facebook.com/iamjessia https://www.tiktok.com/@jessiamusic
