Check out our interview with Canadian-born, Brooklyn-based indie dream/pop artist Jenny Kern who just released her new single “Miss Somebody.”
Taking profound inspiration from the likes of The 1975, Chelsea Cutler, and Maggie Rogers, her new single “Miss Somebody” offers a realm of reminiscence. In an ode to past love, Kern worked alongside producer Carson Cody (Valley, joan) to create a tune that echoes with her blissful vocal energy, contagious melancholy and melodious bliss. Synthesisers intertwine with vibrant rhythms to produce a truly remarkable tune. Kern explains, “As much as love is a part of being human, so is heartbreak. But there’s something beautiful about remembering something special. I’m definitely a person who struggles to let go of certain moments, feelings or people. However, I am learning how to appreciate those moments even when they’re gone. I’m learning how important it is to live in the present emotions. To think, process and write about them. To feel it all and know it’s ok to miss somebody.”
Follow Jenny @jennykernmusic
Hi Jenny, please tell us a little about you?
I’m a Canadian born, Brooklyn based indie pop artist!
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Honest, caring, silly
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
It wasn’t until about 2018 when I started singing. I had played some cover shows in Montreal at school with a friend but never on my own. Someone suggested I play in NYC and the only way I could get a gig booked was if I had original music. So a friend said I should write a song. I did and I fell in love with it very quickly! It all sort of snowballed from there
How has this changed your life?
I think the biggest thing is that I’ve become so much more vulnerable and reflective in my life. Not only through music but in my personal life. I feel far more connected to myself and to others than I’ve ever been.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Dreamy, passionate, honest.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
There are honestly so many people I can thank for where I’m at in music. Personally, I’ve had some music teachers, friends and family that have encouraged me to pursue this dream and I can’t thank them enough. Professionally I think growing up listening to a lot of singer songwriters especially 90’s female singer songwriters influenced me to make such reflective and honest music.
Do you play any instrument?
I play guitar and piano. I used to play saxophone in middle school and high school but gave it up when I went to university. Maybe I should start again?
Do you ever get nervous?
All the time. I am definitely one who battles anxiety and nerves. But when the situation calls for calm cool and collected, I try to tap into that as much as I can (i.e., on stage, interviews, meetings etc.)
Tell us about your new single “Miss Somebody?”
I wrote “Miss Somebody with Jacob Neverhill and Nora Bart in the UK when I went to record another single. Then I teamed up with my producer Carson Cody and it really just came to life. This song reminisces about a past love. As much as love is a part of being human, so is heartbreak. But there’s something beautiful about remembering something special. I’m definitely a person who struggles to let go of certain moments, feelings or people. However, I am learning how to appreciate those moments even when they’re gone. I’m learning how important it is to live in the present emotions. To think, process and write about them. To feel it all and know it’s ok to miss somebody.
What’s the story behind the song?
It’s personal to me and is based on my relationships but I want it to feel universal to those who think about the positives of a former love. It’s okay to miss someone.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of my job is that I receive messages from people telling me that my music has impacted them or changed their lives. As much as music has helped me heal in many ways, it’s really special to hear that my music is able to provide comfort and strength for others.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
Big Magic – Liz Gilbert.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
Be patient and true to yourself. Things take time. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Be kind to and compassionate toward yourself. Don’t be afraid to take some risks.
How would your best friend describe you?
Probably caring, empathetic and silly.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
“It’s Never Too Late” … probably because I jumped into music later than I would have thought but I also know that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
What’s next for Jenny Kern in the last months of 2022?
The release of my EP “Your Heart Knows” out September 30th and a North American tour hitting my hometown of Toronto along with a few other major cities in the US.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Celery (I love the crunch!)
And your favorite cheat food?
Anything with melted cheese (macaroni, pizza etc.)
How would you explain your fashion style?
Chill and relaxed
What is your own definition of happiness?
That’s a tough question because I think happiness is different for so many people. For me it’s being with people I love and doing what I love. The most amazing feeling is feeling supported and also pursuing your passions.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
As cheesy as it sounds I am still waiting to meet my soulmate.
What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?
There are so many countries I’d still love to visit, but my dream vacation would be to rent a villa in Italy. I would love to ride my bike around and have a chef prepare and teach me how to make authentic Italian food. Going with my best friends or family would be amazing! One day!
Best advice ever given?
My dad always says “never waste a good crisis” … pain, trauma, hardships all make you stronger if you embrace the growth.
Do you support any charity?
I am a big advocate for mental health and support charities like NAMI, TWLOHA, Soundmind and more!
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
Release a full length album and tour.
Favorite song? Why?
So many! But two that always get me are “Both Sides Now” by Joni Mitchell and “Why” by Annie Lennox because they make me think about my mom and dad.
What do you think of Social Media?
My relationship with social media is hit or miss. Some days I feel it’s such an incredible tool to connect with people and fans. It’s a great way to share who you are personally (if you’re open to it) and great ways to promote to finding a new audience. Some days it’s really exhausting and draining. The music industry is hard enough to navigate and social media doesn’t really make it any easier. Everyone wants rapid content at a pace that is truly unhealthy to artists. I’m trying to adapt to an industry that has dramatically changed so quickly. Unfortunately, it feels like that’s the ONLY effective way to market music now. You can’t trust the process of releasing songs without pumping out social content. Social media has changed how the industry and labels develop artists. We’re marketing virality and singles instead of focusing on the artist. It also makes it way too easy to compare your life and career to others which is seriously unhealthy. I wish we could release music and focus on the music not on going viral. But hey. That’s how it is now I guess?! It’s a crazy hurricane and as hard as it is I still wouldn’t trade my career for anything else.
Where we can follow you?
@jennykernmusic on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook
www.youtube.com/c/jennykernmusic
Book: Big Magic
Quote: It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light. -Aristotle
Movie: Forrest Gump
Tv Series: Criminal Minds
Favorite Food: Tacos
Travel Destination: Italy
Sports Team: Manchester United
Photo Credits: Mara Rothman and Linnea Sumner
