Exclusive Interview: Jordan Anthony Talks “Vices,” His Debut EP, and the Story Behind “Lost in LA”

Few emerging artists capture the complexities of growing up quite like Jordan Anthony. The Australian singer-songwriter has built a rapidly growing global audience through deeply personal songwriting that transforms his own experiences into stories listeners everywhere can see themselves in. Whether exploring the uncertainty of chasing a dream, the sacrifices that come with leaving home, or the search for where you belong, Jordan writes with an honesty that continues to resonate far beyond his own experiences.

Now, Jordan stands on the cusp of a defining new chapter. Fresh off the release of his latest single, “Vices,” and with his debut EP on the horizon, the Australian singer-songwriter is continuing to expand both his sound and his storytelling.

Pop Culturalist recently caught up with Jordan Anthony to discuss the stories behind his music, the experiences that shaped his forthcoming debut EP, the enduring connection listeners have found in “Lost in LA,” and why the stage remains the place where it all comes full circle.

PC: You moved to the United States to pursue your career. How does the music scene there compare to Perth, and what has being in this environment unlocked for you creatively?
Jordan: To be honest, it’s wildly different. There’s an energy and pace in the United States that I’ve never experienced anywhere else. Everywhere you go, whether it’s a coffee shop or a studio, you overhear people talking about a creative project or a dream they’re chasing. That ambition is contagious.

I think that’s one of the reasons the US has become such a hub for creativity and innovation. There’s this shared mindset of constantly striving for the next opportunity, and I’ve really fallen in love with that. It pushes me to keep growing, to keep challenging myself, and to never get too comfortable. As an artist, it feels like the ceiling is endless, and that’s an incredibly exciting place to be.

PC: You’ve spoken openly about how this industry can often feel like a constant pursuit of what’s next, yet you’ve already accomplished so much in your career. When you look back, what moment stands out as one you’re especially proud of? And as someone who’s always striving for the next goal, how do you make sure you also take the time to celebrate and appreciate everything you’ve already achieved?
Jordan: Wow, that’s actually such an incredible question because it touches on something I struggle with all the time. I’m someone who finds it really difficult to be satisfied with what I’ve accomplished because this industry constantly makes you think about what’s next. It can leave you feeling a little jaded at times, so I honestly appreciate being asked to stop and reflect.

When I do, the moment that stands out most is the release of my song “Lost in LA.” Seeing how deeply it connected with people meant everything to me. It’s such a personal song, rooted in my own journey, and watching listeners find pieces of themselves in it was incredibly special.

I think that was the first time this year I truly allowed myself to feel proud of something I’d created. Success is often measured in numbers, but hearing that a song has genuinely resonated with someone is a feeling that’s hard to put into words. It reminded me why I started making music in the first place.

PC: There’s an emotional honesty to your songwriting that feels deeply personal, yet resonates so universally with listeners. Is there a lyric you’ve written that’s taken on a new meaning for you over time, either through your own experiences or by seeing how fans have connected with and interpreted it?
Jordan: On the topic of the last question, I think the answer would be, “I’d do anything but tell you what I know is true, because I’m too scared to say I think I’m lost in LA.” It’s crazy to me how people have taken that lyric and changed “LA” to whatever city they live in or wherever they feel lost. Seeing people resonate with that feeling of chasing a dream and how difficult it can be some days has been really special.

PC: You’ve got a new single out now, “Vices.” Tell us about the song, the inspiration behind it, and how it all came together.
Jordan: This was a collaboration I did with Equanimous, who’s a super talented DJ. I love the vibe of the song. I feel like it just oozes summer, and it’s my first-ever collaboration with a DJ, so I’m really excited to have it out in the world.

PC: You’ve been consistently releasing music over the past few years. If you had to choose one song from your catalog—outside of your current single—that best represents you as an artist, which would it be, and why?
Jordan: Wow, this song is getting a lot of love today, but it would definitely be “Lost in LA.” I feel like that song is such a great representation of me, not only as an artist but also as a person. It’s very human and authentic to what I was going through at the time, while also reflecting what so many other people may be going through. Whenever someone asks which of my songs they should listen to first, I always say “Lost in LA.”

PC: You’re currently working on your debut EP, and I always find it fascinating how every body of work captures a specific moment in an artist’s life and creative journey. What chapter does this EP represent for you?
Jordan: I’m so excited to finally release my debut project. The songs on this EP mean so much to me, and I feel like they really encapsulate the last two years of my journey, from moving from Australia to the United States to trying to make my mark in this industry.

I’ve been so lucky to work with so many incredible people on this project. There’s an overarching theme of love, loss, and experiencing the world on my own for the first time, while also missing home, my family, and so many of the people who have supported me along the way.

PC: With your debut EP on the way, many artists take those songs on the road. Could we see you performing live this year, and what excites you most about bringing this project to an audience for the first time? Do live shows also shape your creative process by revealing what resonates with fans or even influencing songs that haven’t been released yet?
Jordan: You can absolutely expect that. I’m definitely looking forward to hopefully hitting the road in the coming months. For me, performing live is what makes everything worth it. It’s the ultimate form of connection, and sharing my music with fans is my “why.” It’s the most fulfilling part of being an artist.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Jordan: In Color.

PC: First album that you bought?
Jordan: In the Lonely Hour – Sam Smith.

PC: First concert you attended?
Jordan: Adele.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Jordan: ÷ (Divide) – Ed Sheeran. It was the first time I was genuinely in awe of music and truly inspired by the idea of becoming an artist.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Jordan: Optus Stadium.

PC: A must-have on the road
Jordan: My emotional support water bottle.

To keep up with Jordan, follow him on Instagram, Spotify, and Apple Music.