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1.) We’re very happy to be speaking today with acclaimed Nashville country and pop chanteuse Jesslee; greetings and salutations, Jesslee! Before we meander down the proverbial Q&A musical pathway, how have the dog days of the summer of ‘23 been treating you?
hey there and appreciate y’all! This summer has been wildly different than past seasons. I wasn’t on the road touring as much as I normally do because I signed my major independent record deal and my team and I decided this was my moment to dedicate a good amount of time to producing my debut full-length album. Different but exciting times for sure!
2.) Major congratulations on your forthcoming September 29 LP Equilibrium! What was the inspiration behind this showstopper of an album?
Thank you so much and the inspiration 100% comes from the balance I’ve obtained spiritually, emotionally, personally, and professionally growing into the artist I’ve become today. I feel like everyone is trying to find “that balance” in their life. It’s filled with honest songs about all of the seasons in my life and how they’ve helped me achieve the highest feeling of balance I’ve ever felt. I wanted to create something for people to listen to, where they can feel comfort and love during similar seasons they may be going through. This LP has songs about my struggles, motivation, jaded love, self-worth, party anthems, and so much more.
3.) In your humble opinion, what differentiates Equilibrium from the Distinguished Competition on the 2023 music scene?
Sonically and stylistically I am extremely unique! My team and I like to call my sound “Tom Boy” country because the music tends to lean a little more into my masculine side and then I round it out with storytelling that can feel more feminine. I’m also extremely honest with my music so, I’m literally telling my true stories.
4.) Can you introduce our ever-inquisitive readers to some of the accomplished musicians that lent their own musical alchemy to making Equilibrium a reality?
Love this! So, I have a very specific program for all of my projects! Sol Littlefield played all of the stringed instruments on the record such as acoustic and electric guitar, banjo, and slide and then Tom Rosato handled the records mix and master! Everything else is tracked or programmed by and my co-producer Steve Virginia.
5.) Who was your producer on Equilibrium and what did the collaboration between artist and producer look like in the studio?
It’s an exciting time for me and my team and maybe even women in music because I self-produce all of my music with my co-producer Steve Virginia! I am hands-on at every single point until a project is sent off to mix! It’s not often a signed artist gets that much creative control and it’s truly exciting!
6.) We’re tremendous fans of the tune Chillbilly off of the new Equilibrium album! Is there a VH1-Behind the Music secret origin story you could share with us on how this incredible ditty landed on the new LP?
Thank you SO much! It means a ton because it’s one of my favorites too and speaks so much to my small-town upbringing! And happy to spill the tea, haha! This song landed on the record because Equilibrium is all about “balance”. That balance also includes my sound and how I love to combine multiple genres I love and are true to me while remaining country-centric! The label and I believe Chillbilly is a great example of that!
7.) Who inspires you musically?
I am inspired by so many incredible artists and writers from all genres but if I can only mention one person, Brad Paisley is the top for me! He’s one of the most well-rounded artists, musicians, and writers and I appreciate him and his talent so much!
8.) In the wake of the September 29 release of Equilibrium, can fans look forward to catching you on the touring/performing circuit?
Thank you for asking! Until the release of the record I’ve had a couple of shows and the next one will be the release party at my old coach from The Voice’s venue, Blake Shelton! I will be at Ole Red Nashville on September 25th at 7 pm celebrating with an hour-long show and xmingling and everyone is welcome!
9.) Did your time on NBC’s The Voice open you up to an audience that might not otherwise have known of you?
So much of my fan base (surprisingly enough) was built by my amazing team and xme after exiting the show. But I do have a couple of ride or dies who have been here for the ride and discovered me from The Voice! I’m so grateful for how hard my crew works with me and they always make sure I get the final say!
10.) At the end of the day, what do you hope listeners walk away with after giving Equilibrium many a spin on their respective turn-tables?
If a listener can finish the album feeling like at least one track resonates with them, I’ve done what God has placed in my heart. I make honest music so people can feel something special when they listen. If I can do that for someone, I am elated.
11.) Final – SILLY! – Questions: Favorite movie about the music scene – This Is Spinal Tap, Almost Famous, Sweet Dreams, Walk the Line or The Buddy Holly Story?
Let’s go ahead and “turn it up to 11” and choose “This Is Spinal Tap” Hahaha!
