Up-and-coming music artist Jetta has recently taken the industry by storm. Jetta grew up in Liverpool, England and was introduced to the music world at an early age. To kick off her career, Jetta started out in the industry as a backup vocalist for Paloma Faith and Cee Lo Green. Most recently, her new EP "Start a Riot" made her one of iTunes' top new artists of 2014. She will also be performing with Ellie Goulding this March during Ellie's tour in England. Jetta's producer Jim Elliot worked with some big names in the industry such as Ellie Goulding, Kylie Minogue and Drake. Jetta's powerful vocals and bold style appeal to a wide audience, and she brings a message of fearlessness and growth. TDP Features had the opportunity to interview Jetta about the details of her EP and what we can expect from her in the future. Here's what she had to say:
TDP Features (TDP):You recently came out with you first EP, "Start A Riot." What challenges have you faced entering the music industry on your own?
Jetta (J): I don't feel like I'm on my own. I've worked closely with producer Jim Eliot on my EP. It's something we've shaped together. I also have a great team of people around me. A lot goes on - it takes a lot of people.
TDP: What is the primary message and goal of your new EP?
J: Run with your fears, not from them.
TDP: Who are some of your musical icons that helped inspire this album?
J: Music has always been a very big part of my life. My dad was a sound engineer. He introduced me to 70's and 80's bands- T. Rex, The Police, David Bowie. My mum is a singer too, and she always loved narrative - female vocalists, such as Annie Lennox, Joni Mitchell and Tracy Chapman. As a teenager I discovered Destiny's Child. They were strong and, at the same time, fun. I found that inspiring. The Streets' 'Original Pirate Material' and Coldplay's 'A Rush Of Blood To The Head' were also albums I found a real connection with. For me, they were all voices of a generation, both sides of the Atlantic.
TDP: Are there any songs on this album that you are particularly excited about?
J: I went through so many emotions whilst writing my EP, and I felt it was important to share that. The body of the songs is built like a roller coaster - the ups, downs and everything in between. It really depends what mood I'm in.
TDP: Can you explain the concept of the spiders and insects shown on your face in the images for your album? Do they have a deeper meaning?
J: I did a whole series of shots for my EP, with bugs and a snake. I'm a snake in the Chinese zodiac, so I loved working with one. I wanted the images to reflect the emotions in my music. They're symbolic of embracing your fears.
TDP: You have worked with some impressive artists such as Cee Lo Green and Paloma Faith. How have their individual messages influenced your own music?
J: Their messages come from a real place. Similarly, my songs are from the heart, both lyrically and musically.
TDP: How have you seen yourself grow as a musician?
J: Growing as a musician stems from growing as a person. I feel it happening all the time. I think the best way you can grow is stepping out into the world, meeting new people, making new experiences.
TDP: What advice do you have for new musicians breaking into the industry?
J: It's just as much about discipline as it is talent. Stay focused and try not to compare yourself to others. Most importantly, don't forget to have fun with it.
TDP: Congratulations on being one of iTunes' New Artists of 2014 and having the single of the week. What exciting things can your fans expect from you this year?
J: Thank you. I have a whole load of live gigs coming up. First, an arena show in my hometown, Liverpool, supporting Ellie Goulding in March. Then I'll be in Austin, Texas for SXSW, before heading on a US tour with John Newman. I'm excited.
Be sure to check out Jetta's music and catch her US tour later this year.