Jess Glynne speaks to LeftLion
Congratulations on your nomination for the MOBO Best Newcomer award. What do you think of your chances in that category?
I’m so honoured to even be nominated along with a great bunch of upcoming talent.
Having featured on two number one hits in a row (Clean Bandit’s Rather Be and Route 94’s My Love), does that put pressure on you to make sure your solo releases get the same success?
I put pressure on myself to make the best music I can and that I love, and want to sing for years after. If I achieve the same success that I did with My Love and Rather Be, then I shall count myself a very blessed lady.
Your tunes are pretty ubiquitous right now. What’s it like to hear yourself on rotation in clubs and shops, and where’s the weirdest place you’ve heard your voice?
It's really strange feeling but also such an amazing one knowing people are enjoying listening to your voice. The weirdest place I’ve heard myself on a song would have to be in a toilet.
Will your album continue in that vein, or are we in for a few surprises?
I’m having an amazing experience working on my album so you'll have to buy it and see. I always say not to set expectations too high and you'll be surprised either way.
You didn’t have the most encouraging start to your career. What got you through that and to where you are now?
I just continued to believe in myself, worked really hard and didn't give up, no matter what.
If X Factor asked you back on, would you?
I never auditioned for the X Factor. I went and met the producers and they were extremely rude, and I walked out. I don't know if I would or wouldn’t – let’s see if they ask me.
With a summer of gigs and festivals now under your belt, where's been your favourite show so far?
Wireless in London was the first big moment for me.
Do you prefer the big flashy gigs like your performance with the BBC Philharmonic, or something solo and a little more low key?
I’d have to say that I love both. Playing with the orchestra was amazing and I would love to do it again, and playing smaller shows is just as great as they give you the opportunity to play a more intimate gig for the fans.
What have you got in store for the crowd at Rescue Rooms?
I have a night filled with my music and I will hopefully get the audience going by just being me and having fun on stage.
Do you know Nottingham at all? If so, do you have any wild stories?
My dad is from Nottingham and I wish I had a bunch of stories for you but unfortunately I don't know it all that well. Other than that, I’ve had some really fun nights when my mate was at uni there.
From the glittery Nike Air Force Ones to your hair, you’re clearly a style icon in the making. Any plans to cross over into the fashion world?
I love fashion and playing with my style, and finding new brands and designers. Further on down the line, I would love to be a part of the fashion world and use my creativity in that area.
Your music videos really capture that style well. Do you have a say in the direction?
It’s all too important to me to be really involved creatively. People need to believe what I’m saying and what I’m about so I am very involved with the direction of everything I do.
Apparently you’re into horse riding too. I can’t imagine you mucking out, but do you still get time to unwind and ride?
I haven't been riding for a few years now which is pretty sad but one day I will have a horse and get back in to it. To unwind, I like to just have some downtime by myself to take a minute to chill.
Jess Glynne plays at Rescue Rooms, Sunday 19 October, 6.30pm, tickets from £8.
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