Jessie Gosling: "Forewarning" (Exclusive Interview)
Where are you from?
I am from Barrie, Ontario, though I am currently based in Toronto.
How did you get your start in music?
Music has always been inspired by the people around me. I started singing and playing the guitar with my family and later on, with friends. Of course, music classes and lessons played a role in my interest in music. More than that, the lunchtime jams my drama teacher would hold in my high school drama studio created a space where I could share my own music and play with other musicians. I think that was when I started to become serious about music.
Is music a big part of your family?
I would say so! As I mentioned before, I started singing music with my family. Some of my favourite memories are of summer evenings around the campfire, playing songs with my Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and sisters.
What is the biggest message you want to bring to your audience?
There isn’t one, to be honest. I write music to express myself, and because of that, it is just about the feelings, experiences, and questions I come across as I move along through life. Since I am a person, like everybody else, I bet those experiences often resonate with my listeners. I leave it to them, though, to derive whatever they would like from my music. It might be a feeling, a new determination, or a lesson that I missed in the telling of my story.
What has been the most challenging part of your music journey?
I think a challenge that persists, and that can be a real nuisance, is artistic burnout. It happens to everyone, but in a world where to make music, you have to essentially work 8 different jobs for yourself, it can be difficult to stay motivated and energized, especially in a way that allows you to be creative. I am struggling with that right now, especially going through school. My biggest supporters are my friends and family, who are always around to help and inspire me.
Any good vocal health tips you can share?
Everyone has different opinions on how best to take care of your voice. Different things work for different people, and everyone has a unique type of voice to take care of. I think there is a big focus on vocal health when it comes to learning how to sing. It isn’t a bad thing, but it can make it hard to know what is best to do. Go with what feels natural and intuitive to you.
What are your goals for the rest of 2023?
I am focusing on live performances this year. I have been having a lovely time playing with my friends on gigs that feature a variety of different genres. I have my own show coming up on February 26th at the Handlebar this month if you would like to come out! If you follow my socials, there will be many more to come. Closer to the end of the year, I plan to shift focus back to recording some more music.
