A Chat with Jasmine Rodgers (01.11.20)
With her genre-defying and engaging sound, Jasmine Rodgers is a talented singer-songwriter all the way from the UK. We had a chance to speak with this songstress about her new single ‘Flies’, early memories and creative processes.
OSR: What can you tell us about the single ‘Flies?
Rodgers: It was inspired initially when I saw a fly in a sealed window on the tube. I wondered how it got there and started thinking how little my problems seemed in comparison.
OSR: What was the recording and writing process like?
Rodgers: I wanted to play with two vocals, a male/female aspect and I wanted it to sound bleak and world-weary at first. I wanted to have fun with my vocals because I usually sing in quite a sweet way, so starting dark and finishing sweet was part of the journey of this song. I also usually play an acoustic, but this song was on an electric. Lyric-wise it grew as the atmosphere of the song grew.
OSR: What is your creative process?
Rodgers: I came up with the guitar part and the feeling first. Set it down as close as I could to how I wanted it and then took it to the studio.
OSR: If you could change one thing about ‘Flies’ what would it be?
Rodgers: I’m actually really proud of how it’s come out. It was exactly how I imagined it.
OSR: How do you feel your music has evolved since the 2016 album Blood Red Sun?
Rodgers: It’s less Americana and in terms of recording, I feel like I’ve got a stronger idea of how the songs should sound. My new material has more piano as I’ve been at home because of lockdown, so I’m having time to explore.
OSR: Do you feel a person’s environment influences the music they write?
Rodgers: Yes, but what the person’s environment is subjective. As an example, you can change your environment by the music you listen to, the films you watch, the books you read and the friends you hang out with. Blood Red Sun was written when I was living in London, but I’m currently living in Surrey so I think the nature around me is soothing me. I think this next EP is going to be really relaxed. Having said that, I’m listening to loads of true crime podcasts so… ?
OSR: What is your earliest memory?
Rodgers: I thought it was a past-life memory for years. I thought it was a caveman, but it was actually my dad with long hair and a beard standing on a picnic blanket.
OSR: Do you have a favourite item of clothing?
Rodgers: Does jewellery count? I’m a massive fan of earrings. I’ve got some red beaded hoops that always make me happy.
OSR: Can you describe your sound in a single sentence?
Rodgers: I sing sweet songs whilst thinking very dark thoughts.
OSR: Do you have a message for our readers?
Rodgers: Yeah, it’s had for all of us at the moment. It’s affecting everyone differently so don’t be so surprised if people act a bit odd, and please take care of yourself!
Thanks to Jasmine Rodgers for speaking with us! For more from Jasmine Rodgers check out her official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
