Jen Ash is a Los Angeles-based musician and singer who makes soulful pop songs with a difference. Her song, Trouble, really caught my attention when I first heard it, and I couldn’t help but share it with our readers! If you missed the track the first time around, you can also find it at the end of this interview.

By Jane Howkins

You recently released a single titled Trouble. What can you tell usabout the track?

I wanted to go back in time and have a jazzy blues experience. I fell in love with the music – especially the saxophone, as it really adds a different touch to it and makes it sound unique. I had in my head a visual of a black and white drama movie and I really wanted to explore it and be a part of this universe. I won’t lie, I’ve been inspired by Amy Winehouse’s music. And I miss her creativity and I really wanted to honour her.

How has the reception to Trouble been so far, and where can the song be purchased?

The reception has been very encouraging and it’s been going strong on the radios and platforms, I’m always taking a risk switching genres but I love the challenge and I love taking myself on new adventures. You can purchase the song on all the usual platforms (iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify, Deezer etc).

Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?

Yes, I have a couple of songs under construction that I’m very excited to release. I just wanna make sure everything is on point before I share it with the world.

Are there any plans to release an album or EP?

I will definitely release an EP just before the summer. I have a couple of creations that definitely fit the summer vibe. They will make people dance.

Your music has a pop sound mixed in with soul and r&b. What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?

I grew up with a lot of different influences – being raised in France helped me explore ‘La Musique Francaise’ with a lot of legends like Celine Dion, Lara Fabian, Jean Jacques Goldman, Charles Aznavour etc. But also Afro-Caribbean music coming from the French West Indies and Latin music coming from the border of Spain. My career as a basketball player introduced me to the hip-hop culture, as well as r&b and soul.

At the moment, I’m listening to Snoh Aalegra, PJ Morton, Ne-Yo, Brian McKnight, Mario, Jason Derulo and a lot of old school 90’s r&b. I really miss this era .

What is the writing and recording process like for you?

I usually need to be alone and isolated, with the music playing really loud. I immerse myself in the universe of the song and it helps the words to flow. I record it at home first and listen to it hundreds times before I decide to go to the studio. Once I’m sure of the final material, I then go to the studio and record and master the song with my team.

Do you have anything else exciting coming up this year?

Every project I put myself in is very exciting for me. I take it step by step one project at the time.

Where are you based? How is the local music scene faring at the moment?

I’m based in Los Angeles and honesty it’s the jungle. You have to be mentally prepared and strong to pursue your career here. I don’t think we are appreciated at our full value and a lot of people try to take advantage of your talent. I’m not gonna lie, it’s difficult, but I signed up for this and I have no regrets because I love being who I am and creating music to inspire and connect with people.

Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?

Nothing planned for the moment but hopefully in the future, I would love to come to Europe. The sooner the better.

Any last words for the fans?

I want to thank everyone listening and supporting my music. I appreciate every single one of you. Thank you for giving me the strength to keep going. Thank you for the love.