Jodie Lo shares on her music journey, being inspired by Taylor Swift and new song “Daisy Chains”
Great to have you on Xttrawave. Please, introduce yourself.
Hi my name is Jodie Lo and I am a music artist from Leicestershire, England, but feel free to call me Jodie, Jodes or anything that fits. My artist name came about as a result of a drunken evening with friends where we were discussing what my stage name should be. One of the suggestions was Jodie Louise as an amalgamation of my first name and middle name but I thought it sounded to sweet and not bold enough for the music I want to create.
One of my friends suggested Jodie Lo and it stuck. Funnily enough it was also by chance printed on an aeroplane ticket a few months after, so in my eyes it was meant to be.
What got you into music and made you realize that it was your chosen path?
I’ve always had a special connection to music, particularly singing, as a child I would always feel the pull to get up and sing in front of people whether that be in the playground or family parties. However, I repressed that part of me throughout my teens as I was bullied quite a lot for it and to be honest, I believed what they said. I wrote a few songs in my teens but I never felt confident enough to share them. I chose to focus on a biomedical career path until start of 2020 when a mix of things made me realise that I should actually invest my time in cultivating my talents and interests. I took my first singing lesson in Feb 2020 and my confidence has skyrocketed from there with me even taking up guitar and getting back into songwriting. The great feedback I have received from my music Instagram, performing at local jam nights and collaborating with other great musicians, has made me feel like I am on the right track.
Tell us about your new music? And what’s the story behind it?
My new single ‘Daisy Chains’ came about after falling in love for the first time. I was feeling so the positive the guitar chord progression just came to me and the lyrics came together quickly after that. I chose to use the song to tell a story of how I felt meeting my significant other and how he gave me a daisy on our fourth date. The daisies being in flower at the time and the fact we could just sit and watch the world go by together inspired the imagery of the song.
What makes your music unique? How would you describe it?
I would describe my latest single as happy acoustic pop but in my future singles I don’t plan to stick to one genre, but I aim stay in the indie pop realm. I’m not sure I can claim uniqueness on this but I want to continue to write relatable songs that matter, whether by creating a dreamy musical escape for the listener or by creating an honest dialogue around societal topics affecting people today.
Who are your biggest music influences? And any particular artist/band you would like to collaborate with in the future?
My biggest musical influences would be Taylor Swift for her ability to write lyrics that connect with the soul. I am also influenced by Marina (previously Marina and the Diamonds) as her songs often speak about societal issues, whilst still maintaining the overall sound of a pop song. Vocally I am heavily influenced by soulful voices such as Amy Winehouse and Adele for their ability to convey such emotion. Collaboration wise, I am open to working with all kinds of artists to expand my experience in different genres. But in particular, I would love to work with a male artist as I already have written country pop style song that would work great as a duet.
Which is the best moment in your musical career that you’re most proud of?
I’d say my I am actually most proud of releasing my debut single because for me it is symbolic of finally letting go of limiting beliefs that have held me behind for too long. Two years ago I wouldn’t have been able to share my music or work so closely with amazing musicians such as my bassist Sean, my producers (Archie Norris and Jack Butler Weston) and Lewis Newbold who helped me record the track.
How do you balance your music with other obligations – family, friends or work?
With difficulty if I’m honest! At the moment, I’m trying to write and perform but more often than not other priorities get in the way. I am still working on finding that balance and I’ll let you know when I get there :’D.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Just go for it honestly and try to remove the limiting beliefs you have about yourself and music as a career. Harder said than done I know, but if you still lack confidence, try working with a music professional (eg. A music teacher) who will hopefully give you the confidence to shine.
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be? What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects?
Thank you so much for all your support on ‘Daisy Chains’, I really have appreciated seeing the positive reaction to my music and the path is only upwards from here. In terms of upcoming projects, I set a goal at the start of 2022 to release five singles and because of this I have already been back in the studio working on single no2! I personally believe this song is even better than my debut so keep your ears to the ground (or follow me on Spotify if you don’t want to squash your ears on the floor ;D).
