Young breakout talent is always exciting to see, but Jordan JAE takes it to another level. The smart, savvy 14 year old hails from New York. She’s already worked with acts such as Kinetics and One Love and has a strong following that’s only sure to grow with time. We chatted with the beauty about her inspirations, celebrity crushes, her forthcoming album and more!
Young Adult Magazine: We know that you were singing almost before you were talking. What was the name of the first song that you wrote, and what was it about?
Jordan Jae: The name of the first song I wrote was called “Puppy Love”. It was about this boy that I was completely crazy about! I made a blanket with our names on it and hearts all around. I was only 9 years old, which is why the song was called “Puppy Love”. It was definitely the quality of a 9 year old but I knew my songwriting could only get better. I have many songs like “Puppy Love” because I just kept writing and writing; practice makes perfect. At least I hope so!
YA: Do you have to have a parent who takes you to all your shows to make sure that you don’t get into trouble?
JJ: Both my mom and dad take me to my live shows but my mom takes me to every one of my writing and recording sessions. She doesn’t stay the whole time but always makes sure that I am comfortable before she leaves me at the session. Everyone loves my mom because she always brings food to the sessions, mostly insomnia cookies or sandwiches. She always looks out for me and makes sure everyone eats well.
YA: How does it feel when you go to work on a video set or in a recording studio and you’re younger than all of the people that work for you? It must be a trip.
JJ: I am always excited to go to a video set or a recording studio! There are times that people don’t take me seriously in the beginning because of my age but by the end of the session or shoot I feel that people are not thinking about my age anymore but about my talent. There are some people that think it is amazing that I am so focused and dedicated at such a young age and that really comes across when we work together. Sometimes I have to pinch myself because I am so young and I can’t believe that I am working with so many talented producers, directors, and writers. It is a dream come true for me!
YA: What do you like to do when you’re not being a singing sensation?
JJ: When I’m not writing, recording, or performing I am always singing and playing piano, reading, hanging out with my friends and family, playing with my puppies, and listening to music. I also really like to dance and take photographs.
YA: You have worked with producers Kinetics and One Love. Anyone out of the roster of other artists they’ve worked with that you would love to work with?
JJ: I would love to work with Eminem. He seems so cool and his lyrics are so complex! One of my favorite songs that he performs is “Mockingjay” It would be an unbelievable experience to get to work with him. I am a pop artist and he is a rapper but I think it could be a really cool collaboration.
YA: You’re fixing to become a very successful musician and have already recorded a single. How have your friends reacted to having a teen pop star in their midst?
JJ: My friends think it’s really cool! Some of them treat me a little differently but my really close friends treat me exactly the same. They’re all really supportive and helpful! When “Said No One Ever” came out on my YouTube channel my close friends all shared the song and video and their support always means a lot to me.
YA: What’s the coolest place that you’ve found yourself traveling to so far in your singing career?
JJ: I was so psyched when I went to Los Angeles, CA for my music. LA may seem normal to most musicians but I have not been there since I was little and went Disneyland. It was such a different and amazing experience going to LA for my music. I went in March and loved the whole vibe and the weather.
YA: Who is your celebrity crush? (our readers can keep a secret)
JJ: My celebrity crush is Nash Grier. He’s is a Viner and is hilarious and extremely attractive!
YA: Where and when can I catch you live?
JJ: I will get back to you on that! At the moment we’re figuring out dates but that will be answered very soon!
YA: Any plans for an album imminently, and any kind of particular direction that are you looking forward to exploring musically?
JJ: There is definitely going to be an album and it is going to be filled with songs like “Said No One Ever” aka pop songs and some ballads.
YA: What five songs are playing on your iPod right now?
JJ: Beating Heart By Ellie Goulding
Maybe You’re Right By Miley Cyrus
Gone Gone Gone by Phillip Phillips
The Writer by Ellie Goulding
I Need You by M83