Check out our interview with Canadian country artist Justine Blanchet who recently released her tenth single “Heart Less.”
Written by the powerhouse trio of Canadian country star MacKenzie Porter, Grammy winner Emily Weisband, and Grammy nominee Jordan Schmidt, it was produced in Nashville by Grammy-nominated Danick Dupelle (Tebey, Tyler Joe Miller) and it serves as the second single from Justine’s debut EP that drops later this year.
Follow Justine @JustineBlanchetMusic
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Hi Justine, please tell us a little about you?
Hey! I was born on the South Shore of Montreal. I am the second of four kids. I began singing at the age of 12 and pursued the opera genre for three years until I changed to country music at the age of 15. These days, I split my time between the Montreal area and Nashville making country music and I love it!
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Smart, ambitious, kind.
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I originally began singing opera music when I was 12 years old but decided to pursue country music when I was 15 years old. Writing songs, with or without lyrics, was always part of my life. Through country music, I was able to develop that skill and meet a bunch of talented people, and it’s only continued from there.
How has this changed your life?
Country music made me discover Nashville and all the wonderful people in it. I’ve also had the chance to travel for music and grow a lot as a human being.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
A little “western”, some “pop”, and a touch of “originality”.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
My mom influenced me a lot of make music, but ultimately, I chose to make music because I can’t imagine my life without it.
Do you play any instrument?
I play the guitar, piano, and saxophone.
Do you ever get nervous?
Absolutely, I’ve gotten better at managing stress before a show, but I still get nervous after all this time!
Tell us about your new single and video, “Heart Less?”
Yes! “Heart Less” is the 2nd release from my EP that will be out June 2023. It’s my favorite single so far and it also marks my 10th independent single release. We shot the music video in Nashville last fall. I wanted to represent both the song’s heart and the brain in the video by wearing two different outfits.
What’s the story behind the song?
The song paints the character of a narcissistic partner that proves to the singer that people don’t change. The main message is that one should use their heart less and head more when making decisions dating-wise.
Now tell us about your debut EP “Don’t Ask Me to Dance,” and what we can expect of the other singles?
I am excited to share my debut EP with y’all soon! The EP will have five songs and they are all unique. My goal was to create a record that has a few different flavors and I feel like I’ve accomplished that.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
It is most rewarding when I hear and see how much listeners love my music. Most times, I make music and music videos that I believe and hope will be relatable, but it’s the validation from those who take the time to discover my music and enjoy it that feels the most rewarding!
What book should every entrepreneur read?
“This is Marketing” by Seth Godin is a great resource and highly recommended for artists that want to market their music. It’s important to know how to properly reach an audience.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
Patience is key. Opportunities come along when you’re patient enough. That’s easier said than done, but very important to remember.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
I would tell myself to be patient and that great things are coming.
How would your best friend describe you?
“Justine is the kind of person who puts her new favorite song on repeat for hours on end but can still jam to whatever nonsense I put on.”
If you were a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
“I’m Not as Old as You Think I am”
A lot of people assume I’m much older simply because of experiences I went through at a young age.
What’s next for Justine Blanchet in 2023?
The EP release is keeping me busy for now, but more music is one the way as well!
What is your favorite healthy food?
I love Greek yogurt. It’s very versatile and full of protein.
And your favorite cheat food?
Ice cream is my favorite snack that I like to enjoy once in a while.
How would you explain your fashion style?
I’d say that I like to wear a little mix of boho and country outfits. I have a lot of denim, boots, and fringe in my closet.
What is your own definition of happiness?
I think happiness comes in many different forms. Happiness is a by-product of love but also includes fulfillment and satisfaction.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I wish I could meet Elvis Presley. His influence on the music industry was incredible.
What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?
My dream holiday would be to go to the UK and tour the different areas there with my sister.
Best advice ever given?
Trust that God will provide. My mom reminds me very often that I need to put my trust in the Lord even through difficult and uncertain times.
Do you support any charity?
I do. I spent my summer childhood at a camp in Sherbrooke and it made a long-lasting impression on me. I’m still very good friends with the director and his family. I donate to that camp every year.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I hope to be living in Nashville and doing music full-time. A lot can happen in five years, so I choose to let opportunities come when they do. I’m excited to see where I’ll be in 5 years, wherever that may be.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Right now, I love singing “Heart Like A Truck” by Lainey Wilson.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think social media can be good for a few situations, especially when it comes to spreading important information rapidly, but it’s very easy to let that advantage become a disadvantage. Social media should be consumed in dosages.
Where can we follow you?
I’m on all platforms! You can visit my website and find some cool content. www.justineblanchet.com
FAVORITE
Book: “Jack’s Life” by Douglas Gresham
Quote: “The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain!” – Dolly Parton
Movie: “La La Land”
TV Series: “Murdoch Mysteries”
Favorite Food: Sushi
Travel Destination: Scotland
Sports Team: Not a big sports fan, but if I had to pick, it would be the Toronto Blue Jays
Photo Credit – Emma Lee Photography
