Exclusive Interview: Jessica Lynn Talks Following Her Gut, Her New Single “Shame,” and More

Jessica Lynn is one of the industry’s most exciting voices and a defining artist of her generation. Throughout her career, she has garnered praise from esteemed publications like Billboard, American Songwriter Magazine, and All Access. She has also shared the stage with music greats such as Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, and Loretta Lynn.

The key to her success? Trusting her instincts and taking the road less traveled. It’s that authenticity and unwavering dedication to her artistry that have resonated deeply with listeners around the world.

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with Jessica about blazing her own trail, her latest single “Shame,” and more!

PC: At the start of your career, many people tried to make you conform to industry norms, but you held steadfast. How were you able to remain true to your own artistry? Does it make the success you have had even more special?
Jessica: I was extremely different trying to break into the country music industry—a Brooklyn-born Italian New Yorker, and people weren’t very welcoming. I always believed strongly in following my gut. None of the opportunities or deals that asked me to change everything about who I was felt right, so I passed on them. Those decisions led me down the most wonderful roads. I always listened to my inner voice. It truly does make the success I’ve had much more special because building my brand and business was such a difficult journey. I really do savor and appreciate every moment.

PC: What advice would you give to young creatives who want to follow in your footsteps and are possibly told similar things?
Jessica: It sounds cliché, but always be yourself! There are so many amazing singers and creative people out there, and what sets you apart from the pack is just being you. It’s what makes you special and unique. Also, always believe in yourself. This business is incredibly difficult, and you are going to get knocked down many times and struggle with your confidence and self-esteem. Those who succeed are the ones who can stand back up, brush their shoulders off, and try, try again.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Jessica: I would say that my husband has had the biggest influence on my career. He is the one who truly showed me how to believe in myself. I will never forget when we first met—before I had even started my career—he kept the CD of my demos in his car and would listen to them all the time when we first started dating. Seeing him really enjoy the music meant so much to me, and he was incredibly encouraging. He is now my lead guitarist.

PC: You have a new single out now. Tell us about “Shame” and the inspiration behind the song.
Jessica: I have always been a big fan of Latin music, and Selena is one of my biggest inspirations and influences. I thought it would be so much fun to release something that showcased that side of myself, and it has been really exciting to see the song chart around the world.

PC: You’ve steadily been releasing music throughout the years. If you had to select one of your songs that best encompasses who you are as an artist, which one would it be and why?
Jessica: This is such a cool question! I would say “The Morning Always Comes.” That song has been called “Country Arena Rock,” and it ties all of my favorite genres and feelings into one. It tells a story and really makes you feel something, which is the type of music I love to create. You can see the music video on YouTube.

PC: You’re hitting the road at the end of May. How much do you use the live stage to test out new material?
Jessica: Live testing music is the most important thing. We plan as much as we can beforehand and try to simulate a live environment as best we can, but there’s nothing like actually being up there to see what works and what doesn’t. We also tour in many countries, and sometimes that affects what resonates with the audience. For example, in the USA, I talk a lot more about the songs and the stories behind them. However, in non-English-speaking countries, too much gets lost in translation, so we have to adjust our breaks and transitions. It’s quite a science!

PC: As your catalog continues to grow, is there a song that will always make your setlist? Is there one that will never?
Jessica: “Roadhouse” has become a fan favorite and a show staple. I couldn’t imagine ever taking it out of the setlist. I’d hate to say any song will never make the setlist, but sometimes it’s difficult to include very tender ballads in a high-energy show or a festival set. Those are usually the ones that tend to get pulled first.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Jessica: Bowling for Soup.

PC: First album you bought?
Jessica: Savage Garden – Affirmation.

PC: First concert you attended?
Jessica: Richard Marx.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Jessica: Shania Twain’s Up! showed me how unique country music could be.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Jessica: Madison Square Garden.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Jessica: Protein bars.

To keep up with Jessica, follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify.