Jetta

You’ve certainly heard Jetta before, if not as the voice of Google “Here’s to 2013” spot then perhaps as backing vocals for the likes of Paloma Faith and Cee-Lo Green. But all soul with shades of synths and a resounding pop sensibility, her sound is entirely her own. The up and coming singer-songwriter took the time to answer all our questions about the industry, the new album, and her pick for Song of Summer 2014.

What is your first memory of music and/or writing, making, singing music?

It must have been when I was 3 or 4. Every weekend my mum and her 3 girlfriends would get together at our house, and sing in 4 part harmonies. I remember lying on the living room floor, eyes closed, listening to these beautiful voices, and taking it all in.

When did you decide to pursue music professionally?

I was pretty shy at first. The other kids at school would always ask me to sing to them. I’d make them face the other way. It was when I hit 16, that’s when I really got into the idea of pursuing music professionally. I holed myself up in my bedroom that summer and started writing songs. Then I put on my first show at a local bar in Liverpool. It was somewhere me and my friends used to hang out too. That night I realised nothing gave me such a buzz as being on stage did. I thought to myself, what’s the point in trying to find something else to do. I’ve found it!

What was it like growing up with musician parents? Were they encouraging of your professional interest in music?

I was totally immersed in music from an early age. I spent a lot of time hanging with my dad in the studio - he was an engineer and worked, sometimes for days, without sleep. For my 16th birthday, my mum gave me my first laptop and this music production program called Logic. I was so into it. It definitely encouraged me.

What was your first gig like?

My mum ran an a cappella choir. I was about 6 at the time and she started taking me along to choir rehearsals in the evenings. On the night of the show, right as they were about to sing, I got up on stage and joined in. I was this tiny person, with all these towering faces peering down at me. That was it really, from then on, I was part of the a cappella choir.

Was it difficult within the industry to move from being a back-up singer to a solo artist?

It wasn’t like that. I made no secret of the fact I was solo. I started backing singing as soon as I moved to London. It gave me the freedom I craved. I got to sing on stage with an amazing bunch of people, learning the ropes, whilst getting paid! I’ve loved every second.

When did you move to London from Liverpool? Has the move affected your music or writing?

I moved when I was 17. I didn’t even think twice about it. I was ready, and it was the best decision I ever made. I think wherever you’re from, it’s so important to venture out. I couldn’t have done any of this just sitting in my room. It all starts at the end of your comfort zone.

What attracted you to Republic Records for your debut?

A few things: Jason Flom, one of the head guys over there - he signed Katy Perry, Lorde, Jessie J… I love the fact they have a culture there whereby they work hand in hand with the artist creatively; and most importantly, they just ‘got’ me.

Do you have a favourite track off Start A Riot?

It depends what mood I’m in. Today is a “Start A Riot” kinda day.

“Feels Like Coming Home” was in Google’s “Here’s to 2013” spot. Can you tell us a bit about how that came about and what it was like to see the video for the first time?

I was rehearsing for a show in NY when I first saw it. I’m emotional enough as it is, so reliving some of the major events of 2013, with my song playing… that was overwhelming. I always say, life is one big rollercoaster with every emotion running through it. The Google video felt like that to me - it was a real bittersweet ride.

How did you write and record “Crescendo”?

It was super laid back. Pharrell and I got talking at first, about a whole bunch of stuff - music, what we did last weekend… Then the word Crescendo came up. We sat at the keyboard and got jamming. After that, I went into the booth and stacked a ton of vocals. Honestly, I was like a one woman choir in there. We wanted it to sound like a gang. Pharrell’s great at keeping things positive, whilst maintaining that cool sound. He brought out my bright side.

Do you have a prediction for Song of Summer 2014?

That Watermät track - “Bullit”.

Jetta’s debut EP, Crescendo, will be released by Polydor Records on 1 July.