Exclusive Interview With Julianna Joy
We sat down with Julianna to talk about the inspiration behind "GOLDSTAR," her creative process, and her thoughts on the music industry—and how women can and are redefining its future.
1 - "GOLDSTAR" has been called a jump into the future of contemporary pop. What inspired the sound and direction of this song?
One of my main goals as an artist, especially as one who claims to be pop, is to constantly be trying to innovate the vein I've chosen. I always want to be making something that sounds a) like nothing else on the editorial playlists and b) like nothing else on billboard top 100. I've been so attracted to rhythm and space in music and I just also really love bass guitar.
2 - It's your second project with producer Dee Lilly. Was your working dynamic different since the last EP you collaborated on, and what was your creative process on this single? Could you share?
Dee and I have known each other since 2021, and "UNHAPPY" was a very different project than this one in the creation because almost everything we made for "UNHAPPY" was written in session on the spot. This whole project was different because I started a lot of these songs by myself on piano or guitar (a few actually totally written before going into the studio).
Dee and I had to interpret the songs as we went instead of creating them through fluid writing. "Goldstar" however is a rare song in this occasion because we did write it in studio. This was also only the second time him and I have ever worked with another songwriter in the room for my project. We previously worked with wonderful friend Trinity on a song but it didn't end up fitting into either project. Jenna and I went into the studio with the goal of writing something together and did just that.
3 - You've collaborated with some amazing songwriters and producers along the way. What did Jenna Shorey contribute to the "GOLDSTAR" writing process?
Jenna is an amazing songwriter and I've known her since I was 15, so I knew bringing her in was going to change the way the song sounded. She was instrumental to the punchy chorus and was actually the one who brought up using Queen as a reference. There was a version where she actually was featured but it ended up not being the direction I wanted to go into.
3 - You've collaborated with some amazing songwriters and producers along the way. What did Jenna Shorey contribute to the "GOLDSTAR" writing process?
Jenna is an amazing songwriter and I've known her since I was 15, so I knew bringing her in was going to change the way the song sounded. She was instrumental to the punchy chorus and was actually the one who brought up using Queen as a reference. There was a version where she actually was featured but it ended up not being the direction I wanted to go into.
4 - Your music is a mix of indie pop and ambitious production. How do you see your sound evolving as you start this new chapter with your first album?
I think what I create now is the most authentic to the artist version of myself I see. Who 'Julianna Joy' is is so specific in my head and I feel like the music is finally catching up to it as I evolve into her.
5 - Being a young woman in the music industry, what are some challenges you have experienced, if any, and how have they influenced the way you have approached your career?
Men 100% believe they know better than you no matter what. I protect myself and my vision more than I did in the beginning of my career.
6 - Female musicians are often held to different standards than their male counterparts. Have you found this to be the truth throughout your career, and if so what would you like to see improve within the industry?
Definitely held to a different standard. I think young men are so easily idolized in a way that women never are. I've been asked about my style of clothing and my "nonsexual" approach to my fashion - which is something I don't believe a man would be asked. I didn't know what to say at the time but I really wish I had said something then. If I could see anything in this industry change is a true evening out of the playing field. I want women in every field and I want women on every team and I want women on every board. Women provide an important and deep view into music that has always proved to be ahead of its time.
7 - You've had quite a journey—debut single at 17, opening for Xana, and now preparing for your debut album. What has been the most surprising or rewarding experience along the way thus far?
I think the most rewarding experience is the friends I have made through music. I feel so lucky to spend so much of my time with other artists whether it's working on music together or even just watching tv together. I feel so enriched by the community LA has given me.
8 - With "GOLDSTAR" leading the way for your debut album, what can fans expect from the entire project, SOMEBODY CALL THE FIREMEN!?
I think they can expect a lot of fiery (pun not intended) and boldness from every single song.
Listen to the gems of Women in Pop #curatedbypowhersound
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