IN CONVERSATION WITH JESSIE MURPH

interview by JANA LETONJA

Powerhouse vocalist and songwriter Jessie Murph has been having an exciting 2024. Most recently, she brought her sold-out global headline tour to North America after hitting major markets abroad and 40 cities across the US & Canada. On 6th September, she released her debut album ‘That Ain’t No Man That’s the Devil’.

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Jessie, you just released your debut studio album ‘That Ain’t No Man That’s the Devil’. How exciting was getting it out in the world, and how has been the response so far?

It was so exciting, but also so nerve wracking. This was the first body of work that I felt was truly authentic and also really cohesive, so to finally put it out in the world was kind of scary, but I feel like the response to it has been so positive that it really makes me so grateful to everyone who has listened.

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Tell us more about the inspiration behind the album, and how you intertwine country with pop and rock in your musical style.

The inspiration behind the album I think is just a culmination of a lot of different things that I’ve been through and feelings I’ve maybe been bottling up and letting fester, so when I ultimately let it out, everything seems way bigger than what the inspiration actually was, if that makes sense. And as far as intertwining different genres, that’s just all the music that I listen to. I love country, hip hop, soul, so when I write, that’s just what comes out.

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This summer, you also released your collaboration with the powerhouse Teddy Swims. How was it collaborating with him on ‘Dirty’?

It was incredible. His voice is so crazy. He’s maybe one of the best singers I’ve heard or been able to be in the studio with. I had asked my fans on social media who I should get as a feature on that song, and the response was overwhelmingly Teddy Swims. It was a no brainer.

Recently, you also brought your sold-out global tour to North America. How did it feel to have your tour sold-out globally, and seeing the fans engaging so much with your music?

Connecting with fans on the road is truly why I do what I do. Those are the interactions that fuel me and I cherish nothing more than hearing everyone’s stories and especially how my music may have helped them. The fact that the shows all sell out is also surreal, but really just the icing on the cake of getting to see everyone.

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What was the most exciting moment from the whole tour for you?

Wow, that’s such a hard question. I’d probably say the show we played at Indiana University because it was my first stadium show.

Your career started on YouTube and TikTok. How has it developed and took off from getting discovered on these platforms?

TikTok has been such a powerful tool for me in my career. I love how it’s another way to engage with and connect with fans, not to mention get some insight into what music they’ll like. My biggest advice to new artists is always to put yourself out there on social media. It’s one of the best ways to get discovered and start building a fanbase.

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How has your passion for music developed early on?

I’m not sure exactly, I just know it’s something I’ve always loved and wanted to do. I’ve technically been writing songs since I was probably 11 or so, and I put my first cover up on YouTube when I was even younger than that.

What inspires you daily when writing songs?

I mostly write about my own experiences or feelings. I don’t know if that makes me selfish, but I feel like it’s the best way I know how to write authentically and from the heart. If it’s not something I’m personally feeling, it’s really hard for me to tap in and write about it.

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Aside from music, what are your other passions in life?

I really love reading, watching old movies, spending time with my family. I’m also passionate about mental health and have partnered with various charities such as Musicares. It’s a cause very near and dear to me.

Now that the album is out, what is coming up next for you?

More touring, more music, and more collabs.

TEAM CREDITS:
talent JESSIE MURPH
photography DAVID HIGGS
styling JOEY THAO
makeup BRITTANY PAIGE LAMBERT
hair CLINT TORRES
styling assistants SUMMER HORCHEM & JAXONA LEE
production design CONCRETESTEM
location VERDEMOUR GARDENS
editor TIMI LETONJA
editorial director & interview JANA LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN