We had the prerogative to interview Jamala, one of the biggest artists from Ukraine and a standout talent from Eastern Europe under the auspices of Konstantinos. The songstress, known for her powerful voice and emotive performances, was gracious enough to field questions from me concerning her musical career.
Throughout our conversation, Jamala shared insights into her journey as a musician, her inspirations, and the creative process behind her music. Her passion for her craft and her dedication to her art were evident in every answer she gave. She also spoke about the challenges she has faced and overcome, as well as her aspirations for the future.
Jamala’s latest single, “SOLO,” showcases her incredible talent and unique sound. It’s a song that captures her essence as an artist and is sure to resonate with listeners around the world.
Kindly, read the full interview below to learn more about Jamala’s fascinating career and musical journey. And be sure to check out “SOLO” by Jamala beneath my post for a taste of her exceptional artistry.
1.How would you describe your childhood?
I had a wonderful and happy childhood. We lived just a couple of minute walk away from the sea shore. I could always hear music at home, as my parents were musicians. We listened together to classical and folk music, jazz and soul. My taste in music was shaped by my parents. All our big family gathered together for holidays, we organized home concerts, my dad playing the accordion, my sister playing the domra, and me singing.
2.How do you feel performing at the 2012 UEFA EURO football championships?
It was an unusual performance in many ways. When the UEFA Ukrainian Office offered me to compose a special song for the championship and perform at the Final Draw I was flattered. So the song called Goal was born, and we performed it during the forecast seen by all Europe.They say, over 150 million people were watching! It was a responsible and memorable moment.
3.How do you feel when you won the Eurovision contest with your song “1994”?
Oh, I’ll never forget this moment! The emotions were tremendous! I’ve always felt
responsibility to my country, and I was so happy to hear when compere declared that Ukraine won. We were all very happy. I still feel delighted to remember these moments. Still, I think that my greatest achievements are ahead, and Eurovision was an important stage, but I’ve moved on.
Do you ever find yourself unable to express your creativity to the fullest? What kinds of things inhibit you?
Probably, it happens to any person from time to time. You feel empty inside, lost, you don’t know where to go and what to do. I remember that for some weeks I had such a feeling, when Russia annexed Crimea and the war in Donbass began. It was terrible. I thought, “who needs music now, in such a time?” Now, when I feel frustrated and don’t feel like doing anything I find peace with my husband and son. They are a source of my inspiration and endless joy.
How old were you when you wrote your first song and what was it about?
I’ve long thought that songs should be written by professional composers. So, even if I wrote something it was more like an experiment. Just to see if I can or cannot do it. The first song that was later released on my debut album was Without You. I wrote it when I was studying at the Musical Academy, so it took four years for it to be released.
Where do you draw inspiration from when you write songs and what’s your favorite part about the process?
You can be inspired by anything. I am inspired by many things: weather, my family, friends, music, cinema. I enjoy the most the moment when the song has been just finished and you feel that you like it. It is an incredible feeling!
What are your greatest professional strengths?
It seems to me, this question should be addressed somebody else.
What are the five things you can’t live without?
Love, family, music, the work I adore and my audience.
Name some of the artistes that you would love to work with?
There are a lot of them. There is no need in mentioning great artists anybody would like to work with. Of course, I would love to sing with Stevie Wonder or Gregory Porter. But It is important for musicians to have chemistry between them, otherwise there would be no music.I’ve had some collaborations recently, and two of them were with hip-hop musicians. It is a new area for me, still I like it a lot!
What message, if any, do you try to put into your work?
We are responsible for the world we are living in. Do something for it to be a little better.
