Every Monday we will be bringing you interviews with unsigned UK or Ireland artists for Independent Music Monday. Recently we caught up with unsigned Leeds singer Jade Helliwell to find out more…
Where are you from and how did you first get into music?:
I’m from Leeds in West Yorkshire. I first began performing when I was 9/10 after catching the bug at a karaoke night on a family holiday.
Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
Growing up it was all the big female vocalists. Celine Dion, Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. Now, I still love them, but I’m heavily influenced by modern Country artists such as Carrie Underwood, Maren Morris, Danielle Bradberry and Carly Pearce.
How would you describe your sound?
A blend of Country and Pop.
What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
My latest release is called If I Were You. It’s about taking a chance on someone and not realising how you’re viewed through the eyes of others.
What’s your local music scene like?
My local scene is great though there isn’t much country music. My closest country scene is Manchester which has a huge amount of both UK and Touring Country shows year round.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months?
As long as things go to plan I will be playing shows, Festivals such as Liverpool Country Festival and The Long Road. I am embarking on a co-headline tour with Kezia Gill in November. I also plan to keep releasing music and writing as often as possible.
Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with Dolly Parton, Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris. UK wise it would be The Shires and Ward Thomas.
Any funny stories surrounding your live performances?
I was once enjoying the band before me so much I forgot my cue to get ready. I had to throw myself together and throughout the set my feet were killing and I couldn’t figure out why until I got changed and realised I’d left all the cardboard in my new boots!
What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
That Country music is not just one type. There are different aspects and the modern country pop sound is very current. Most people would be pleasantly surprised if they gave it a listen.
You can find out more about Jade on her website or via Facebook, Instagram, SoundCloud, Spotify, TikTok, Twitter or YouTube.
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