As the sun sets on the horizon and melodies fill the air, there’s something truly enchanting about the world of music. Today, we have the privilege of stepping into that world through a captivating conversation with the incredibly talented Jennifer Alvarado.
From the strum of a guitar to the soulful resonance of her voice, Jennifer has an innate ability to craft songs that touch the heart and stir the soul. In this interview, we’ll unravel the threads of her musical journey, exploring the inspirations, experiences, and emotions that give life to her art.
Jennifer Alvarado is more than just a name; she’s a storyteller, a dreamer, and a conduit for emotions set to melodies. From her early encounters with music to the pivotal moments that shaped her artistic path, we’ll dive into the chapters that have made her the musician she is today.
Every artist’s journey is shaped by the echoes of others who have paved the way. In this interview, we’ll discover the musical influences that have left an indelible mark on Jennifer’s unique sound. From classic harmonies to modern rhythms, these influences have woven a tapestry of genres that resonate in every note she sings.
Congratulations on your impressive musical journey so far! Can you tell us about your musical background and what inspired you to become an international recording artist?
Thanks for the opportunity to tell my story! I cannot remember a time in my life where I wasn’t surrounded by music. My Grandfather played several instruments and I was listening to Bluegrass or Country music when visiting. I started writing my own little songs at the age of 4 and then got involved with youth choir and theatre…really anything that allowed me to sing. I picked up guitar and piano to help me with songwriting. I think from the age of 7 onwards, music was the only thing that I could fully see myself doing long-term.
Your musical journey has taken you from your debut EP “Playing with Fire” to your more recent project “Songbird: Parts One and Two.” Can you share with us how your style and creative approach have evolved over this period?
Yes. So I actually released my first album back in 2015. It was a Contemporary Christian project. When the pandemic hit, I started releasing my Country material and ending up releasing the “PWF” EP. The “Songbird” project was more of an intentional storytelling album. I split it into two parts: one, focuses on the start and bitter end of a toxic relationship and two, focuses on rebuilding once you are free.
I feel like I grew up while writing “Songbird.” There was a greater intentionality in the art of telling a complete story versus the “PWF” EP. I went into the “Songbird” project needing to heal from past trauma and it was the first time I allowed that raw processing emotion to not be scrubbed out of what I was doing.
You’ve been nominated for multiple awards, including “Entertainer of the Year” and “Female Rising Star.” How do these nominations impact your artistic journey, and what do you hope to achieve through your music in the coming years?
It is always an honor. I was blessed enough to recently receive the Silver “Entertainer on the Year” award from the International Singer-Songwriters Association (ISSA). For me, it’s more a confirmation that I am growing and still headed down the right path. The biggest honour is when someone can find comfort or strength from the songs I have written. That is what matters the most to me. I want to be a voice for those that may feel forgotten or unseen. I want to make sure they feel they have a friend and supporter in me.
Could you offer some insights into your creative process when it comes to writing and producing music? How do you keep your inspiration flowing?
Life is a constant inspiration. My songs are always in some way directly from my experiences….though maybe embellished at times:) Most of my songs are me processing through what I am feeling. Many times I have phrases or sentences on a page and build melodies around them. I try to stay very true to imagery and story I am telling when it comes to going into the studio. I want to make sure the elements being used help to tell the story and it makes sense.
Your music blends country, pop, and blues influences, creating a unique and eclectic sound. Could you delve into the artists or genres that have had the most significant impact on your musical style?
I love everything from Dolly Parton to Nirvana to Tupac to Tom Petty. I think because I always loved words of a song, I never got caught up in the genre style.
The same is true for my songs. I might write a very traditional type Country song and then something that sounds like Alanis Morissette. I’ve never liked placing boundaries on self-expression just to be able to call myself “Country” or “Pop.”
Collaborating with other artists can bring a new dimension to your music. Could you talk about your experience working on the duet “Starz Collide” with the Canadian band The Whythouse, and how it felt to win “Best Duet” for the Summer 2022 Indie Songwriting Awards?
That song is very special. We both wrote it with our spouses in mind. The lyrics of the verses are very much about my husband and me. I think you learn so much by collaborating with others…especially in this case. The Whythouse has a very urban sound and so I’m sure many thought how is this going to work with Jennifer’s twang. I think again, it goes to prove music is able to cross boundaries and bring people together.
With your diverse musical style and genre-bending approach, how do you see your music evolving in the future? Are there any new directions or collaborations you’re excited to explore?
I am open to pretty much anything. I like writing and working with artists different from myself and my typical genre. I think there is great power in collaboration and I think you also become a better storyteller by learning to work and share with others. I hope my future has more of that.
As far as my personal musical style, I think you constantly are reinventing yourself as you mature. I think my style will always have elements of 90’s country and even grunge and classic rock because those are the genres that had the greatest impact on me….but I also will not limit the outcome of a song simply because I’ve never attempted a certain genre.
Your success story is an inspiration to aspiring artists. What advice would you give to those who are just starting out in the music industry and hoping to make a name for themselves?
Be true to yourself. It is great to learn from other artists and even pick up little characteristics or tricks from them, but don’t be a copycat. It might work for a little while, but it is never sustainable. Others will know you aren’t being sincere and you will burn out. It is better to embrace your own unique voice and style. Your tribe and supporters will find you and love you for it.
Finally, in addition to your musical achievements, are there any other projects or goals you have on your radar that you’d like to share with your fans?
Yes. I am actually in the studio now working on a holiday EP that will be out in November. And I am starting work on a new album that is a throwback to 90’s Country style. I am really excited about it:)
