ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: JDA - AWAY FROM SIN
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JDA is an artist in control of her music-making process in that she is a singer, songwriter and producer. Her latest single "Away From Sin" takes a retrospective look at a relationship once it is over. Having racked up over 4,000 plays on Spotify, the song has definitely connected with listeners. Have a read as WFA talks to JDA about this track, London as a creative backdrop and what the rest of 2018 has in store.
Tell us about what made you want to pursue a career in music?
I know everyone says this, but I’ve been into music for as long as I can remember. It wasn’t always performing and writing; I also just had a great interest in listening to a wide variety of music (thanks dad). I grew up with amazing parents who told me ‘If you do what you love you’ll never work a day in your life’. So I’ve never seen anything else as an option.
You originally trained as a singer but now have tried your hand at producing; why did you feel it was important to start producing your own music?
My journey into production was a complete accident. I didn’t turn to it for a specific reason however, now that I’ve been producing for some years, I feel it’s played such a vital role in finding my ‘sound’. I’m not the best at explaining things musically. Even if I was, only I can hear what sounds are in my head, or what direction I want a song to take. My end product will always be my own sound (good or bad) as there isn’t someone projecting their ideas on to my song. Having said that, I am not against having a co-producer or a second opinion, I just feel like production, for me, really helped build my current sound.
What was the inspiration for your latest single: “Away From Sin?
Away From Sin is a reflection I had after coming out of a relationship. It was all of the things I had wanted to ask during the relationship but didn’t have the voice to. When writing the song the answers to the questions didn’t matter anymore, it was more of a ‘what if’?
Is there an EP/Album on the way soon?
No EP or album yet however, I am releasing four singles over the course of 2018 so you can keep your eyes peeled for those.
Is there anyone in the UK you would currently like to work with?
James Blake without hesitation. He is such an inspiration to me from all aspects of his work. I would also love to work with IAMDDB, she’s got a cool edge. I think we're different but finding our common ground would result in some cool things.
Which artist that you listen to, motivates you to be the best you can be as an artist?
People like James Blake (again), ABRA, NAO, Anna Wise, Tyler the Creator, the list could go on. They break musical barriers and have a really strong individual style. It motivates me to trust my gut and to keep playing to my strengths.
You moved to London 5 years ago to help develop your music career, how has being in this city helped you with your vision of where you want to be?
Being in this city has opened my eyes to so many things. The fact that I can make the music I want and someone, somewhere will enjoy it. London is a jungle of culture and musical background and I don’t feel like I have to compromise myself to create something of value. London is also full of creatives so I'm easily inspired by what others are doing. Where I want to be changes daily but my vision is always growing as I continue to be inspired by the city and its residents.
Finally, what does success mean to you?
Long term success for me would be to have music as a full time job. It would be the greatest feeling to wake up every morning knowing that I’m doing what I love.
Be sure to follow JDA on her socials below to keep up with her money moves this year and beyond.
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