Jane Ellen Bryant | INTERVIEW

Wow! Congratulations on your new single, “Attention.” I wanted to jump on my bed singing into my hairbrush all night! I’d love to know what inspired you on this single both musically and lyrically!

Haha thank you! I’ve always wanted to have a song that brings out the hairbrush. Attention took me in a totally new direction as a singer and songwriter. I’ve never had a song that is straight up dance, pop before. It was so fun to dive into. I was sitting on my couch one day and I suddenly heard the “do I have your attention” melody in my head over and over. I made a voice memo of it and then finished the song quickly a few days later. It was a easy flow given the situation I was personally in. A new relationship was inevitably coming to an end. Instead of addressing the obvious, the person on the other side chose to be awkwardly distant. It was beyond frustrating that they wouldn’t come forward and respectfully discuss it with me. 

What does the songwriting process look like for you?

My process is changing! In the past I’ve banked on a song coming to me quickly in the heat of an emotion. I’m now focusing on pushing myself and digging deeper whether or not I feel like expressing myself in a particular way. I don’t want to have to be sad or overwhelmed emotionally for a song to exist. Something is always there if you search for it. Sometimes the digging tirelessly creates something better than you ever thought possible. 

How long have you had the dream of being a musician?

I can’t remember ever wanting to be or do anything else! 

What does the next year or so look like for you and your music?

This year has been full of change and transition. It makes me uncomfortable to lose my normal way of life, but it just means something better is coming. I’m learning to go where the energy is flowing. For the first time in ten years, I’m no longer tunnel visioning my music or this project. I know exciting things are coming because of it.

Who would you say has inspired you the most in the music industry?

I have so many people in my head for this answer! It is impossible to choose. First thing that comes to mind currently, is that love watching the way Maggie Roggers, Phoebe Bridgers, Janelle Monae, and Natalie Prass are finding their own path and sound in this industry. 

Do you ever struggle with staying true to your own creativity? 

When I stay true to my creativity, I naturally write songs that land in multitude of genres. You will hear this in the varying songs on my upcoming EP. I love staying to true to myself, but I’ve found that it makes it hard to market yourself in this over saturated business. I’m learning how to stay to true but be direct. It is a long process to find the balance, but I’m trying to get there.

What advice do you have for young women trying to make it in the music industry?

I think many women were taught to be nice and agreeable no matter what the situation. That mindset has not treated me well in this business. You have to learn to say no and not get yourself into situations with people who do not have your best interest at heart. It's tough to be the bad guy, but most men wouldn't think twice about it. I'm trying not to either.

Thanks so much for joining us! We wish you all the luck as we watch and support you in your musical endeavors!

Author, Meg Thomas

Hi, I’m Meg! I love to write poetry, travel with my man, and drink a cold Stella. I’m graduating from UCO with a Creative Writing degree and will continue to do whatever I can to empower women in their pursuit of success!! Let’s grab coffee ☕️ xoxo