Dirty Dozen: Jessica Rhaye

Jessica Rhaye is a singer/songwriter from the east coast of Canada who recently released her 5th independent album “Song in Me”; a blend of folk / country / Americana music.   Also an established and award winning graphic design artist, Jessica’s music has been nominated for numerous song-writing awards, including the John Lennon Songwriting Competition, East Coast Music Awards and a Canadian Folk Music Award.   

Can you tell us about yourself? Where you’re from and what you’ve been up to over the past few years?
Hi! I am Jessica Rhaye! I live in New Brunswick on the East coast of Canada and have been singing and writing music ever since I can remember. I just released my 5th solo album “Song In Me”. I am a graphic design artist as well as a singer songwriter so I am constantly creating whether it is singing, writing or performing music or designing artistic collateral. I am also a mother to two incredible children.

How would you describe your music?
I would say my musical style has always been in the folk/country, singer/songwriter category.

Can you tell us a little bit about your influences?
Most of my musical influences have been folk singer songwriters from the 60’s-70’s – Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Neil Young, John Denver, Anne Murray. Today I listen to and love a lot of Canadian artists, Ron Sexsmith, Jann Arden, as well as American artist Ryan Adams.

What are you currently promoting?
I just released a new solo album “Song In Me” in the fall of 2016. I am super happy with the outcome of this recording. It’s a huge satisfying feeling when a whole collection of songs has been brought to life with production. I am really excited to let the world hear these new songs and to get out and play them for my audiences.

Have you got a particular song you’ve done that you’re particularly proud of, one that might define you?
I am really proud of the title track on my new release “Song in Me”. It’s a co-write with a good friend and song writer, Brent Mason. It’s an anthem-like song, about hope, love and song in our hearts.

What are you currently listening to?
Currently I am listening to Bob Dylan, Ryan Adams and Ron Sexsmith.

And your favourite album of all time, the one you couldn’t do without?
Jann Arden “Living Under June”.

What are your hopes for your future career?
I hope I can continue writing, recording and performing music. It’s my passion and a huge part of my life. I hope I can do it ‘til I am old and grey

If money were no object what would be your dream project?
I would buy a tour bus, fill it with some of my favourite musician friends and tour around and play endless amounts of concerts J

What’s the best thing about being a musician?
The experience. The things I have learned and how I can open up and share my stories through my music and making connections with an audience.

And the worst?
There is a lot of competition in the singer songwriter world these days and being able to find suitable venues and audiences can be a challenge.

Finally, have you anything you’d like to say to the readers of Americana UK?
I would love to get back to the UK to perform again in the near future. Check out my website and new album and drop me a line on facebook to say hello!

About Rudie Hayes 150 Articles
Rudie is the weekly host of the syndicated radio show - The Horseshoe Lounge Music Session - playing the best American Roots and hosting terrific live guests.
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Peter Mancini

Beautiful & talented singer, I very much enjoy listening to her music.
Regard Peter M.