Fiery, bold and glamorous. British-Slovene artist July Jones is always up for experimenting and will never be tamed. Having risen to fame on YouTube and gotten a label deal at age 14, July Jones has moved and lived in four countries, eventually decided to finish high school in the States (despite turning down an esteemed scholarship and doing it alone instead). Fast forward to now, she is based in London and has become a multi-genre young performer to look out for.
The openly pansexual songstress is all about calling out society’s standards and expectations of women. ‘Liar Liar’ exposes the lack of transparency and accountability in society, and how the music industry fails to demonstrate a balance of openness. It is a real self-empowerment pop anthem that puts a smile on your face. Today, we chatted with July Jones about the inspiration behind her hit single ‘Liar Liar’, her favourite fashion essentials and her dream collaborations.
An interview with July Jones
What was the starting point for you in taking the solo route?
I started really young. I was posting videos on YouTube and an embarrassing video of Adele’s ‘Someone Like You’ went viral. A label then signed me when I was 14. I moved to London a few years later where I wasn’t making music full-time but writing for my own project as well as other artists’ projects.
What does ‘Liar Liar’ mean to you personally?
‘Liar Liar’ was about my experience in the music industry. Music industry has a lot of “big talkers” that will sell you big dreams. They will tell you this and that, and that they know someone to get you wherever you need to be in your career. I thought it’s quite hilarious, so I wanted to laugh about it.
Can you walk us through your creative and songwriting process?
Everyone writes differently. But because English isn’t my first language, I am more of a melody person. I come in the studio with a concept, I have a computer filled with notepads filled with ideas. We’ll start the session with a producer playing some chords, or me fiddling around and then I’ll start singing my ideas. Once the melody is structured in a traditionally pop way, I’ll go in and finish the lyrics, followed by vocal recording and production.
How would you go about styling yourself with confidence? Do you have an ultimate fashion item?
I LOVE clothes. Style is an extension of me, it represents who I am. Currently, my go-to is latex. I always have a latex piece on me. I think a lot of people dress normally because they’re afraid of expressing who they are and just want to fit in. But the world would be a much more colourful place if we’d show more of our true colours. It does take confidence of course. I’d say just start with a small piece and build from there.
What is your favourite way to spend your downtime?
I love running, any sort of sports, and being in the nature.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
There are so many different artists that have influenced me throughout my career. But right now I really admire Charli XCX, FKA Twigs, Banks, Halsey, Lorde, Perfume Genius, 070 Shake, Madonna and the list goes on.
How is work progressing regarding your upcoming projects/releases?
I have a single coming out with Suzi Wu and Girli called ‘Butterflies’, followed by a mixtape on mental health. This year is going to be major!
Who would you like to collaborate with in the future?
FKA Twigs, Lana Del Rey, 070 Shake are my top 3.
Underground Soundwave presents an ongoing series of reports on emerging and established bands with close-up Q&As, new release reviews and gig reports with a special emphasis on supporting diversity in music, women in music, independent labels and venues and the local music scene.
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