Jade Emperor Interview
Over the weekend, HCM conducted an interview with multitalented artist Jade Emperor. Jade gave us a few details about her music career and how she came to be the artist she is today, and how she came up with her stage name. She also hinted about a new project and where her inspiration comes from. For more details, read more below to see what she had to say.
HCM. How did you come by your stage name?
Jade Emperor. Jade is actually my first name, but my stage name comes from the Chinese god, Jade Emperor. I’ve always been super fascinated by mythology, philosophy, and the general belief of doing good in order to attract positive things into your life, as well as helping others.
HCM. When did you discover your love for music and what made you realize you wanted to pursue a career in music?
Jade Emperor. I discovered my love for music at a very young age. Up until around 10 years old, I listened to the typical pop and hip hop songs you’d expect of the 90s. But then one day, my uncle played Summertime (Louis and Ella’s version) to me and I was instantly hooked. By 12, I knew music was what I wanted to live and breathe.
HCM. To what or whom do you accredit your sense of style?
Jade Emperor. Through the years, I latched onto the sounds of Jennifer Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Nina Simone, and Ella Fitzgerald, all of whom I strongly believe influenced my sound, my style, my performance… everything.
In later years, Adele and particularly Amy Winehouse, both became major influences and I would say definitely reminded me that jazz and soul were still very much alive and loved by many.
HCM. On your current release… How did you come up with the concept for this project?
Jade Emperor. I was sitting in my lounge on a Friday night and started thinking about how grateful I was for life. I realized that amidst the panic and sadness life brings sometimes, there was always something or someone to be grateful for. Your partner, your neighbor, your morning coffee, your grandma’s kiss. It’s literally impossible not to think of something that makes you smile and keep going.
When I came across the beat, the song just wrote itself.
HCM. What are some of your greatest challenges as an artist, and what is your greatest attribute when it comes to your work ethic?
Jade Emperor. Sometimes I go blank and completely lose inspiration. What I’ve found is that it’s important as an artist to at first, recognize when you reach this point and then practice self-care to get yourself back to your normal state.
Breaks are okay. Do something to unwind. Make sure you’re eating/drinking well and getting enough fresh air. Meditate. Listen to your body and mind – you know more than you think!
I’d say my work ethic comes from my belief that if you want something, you need to go out and get it. I’m from a long line of go-getters who have all worked hard for what they have, even during the darkest hours, they kept going. I think there’s a real beauty in the sort of rewards that come out of those tough and at times, painful processes. Like they say, nothing good comes without putting some sort of work in.
HCM. What impression would you like listeners to be left with after hearing your music?
Jade Emperor. I want people to feel touched, inspired, and motivated by my music. I want them to forget where they are for a bit and use the music to escape to their happy place.
HCM. What are your plans for the near future?
Jade Emperor. I’m preparing for the release of my debut EP which should be out later in the summer. I also plan on traveling over the next year to get more inspiration and meet amazing new characters. I’m thinking of Africa, Europe, and the US.
HCM. Is there anyone you’d like to thank, any shout outs?
Jade Emperor. Everyone supporting and enjoying my music. We’re connected through it. It’s honestly the best feeling in the world, feeling so close to other people and bonding over notes, instruments, lyrics… it’s an incredible experience.
For bookings, interviews and more information contact Jade Emperor at hello@itsjadeemperor.com
Connect with Jade Emperor on social media:
Instagram | Facebook | Website
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