It has been a great year so far for Jazz singer Natalie Jean. She’s racked up over 20 nominations at various indie music award shows including the American Songwriting Awards and was named one of the Top Five Vocalists in the Singer Universe Vocalist of the Month for June 2014.
Jean is keeping that momentum going with the release of her sophomore self-titled album, produced by Alexi Von Guggenberg. The album features 12 jazz and blues songs filled with passion such as the debut single ‘You Are My Everything’ and ‘My Man.‘
Jean lists some incredible influences as her driving force for this new album including Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald but, the talented Jazz singer also keeps it close to the family by adding her father, a well know Haitian artist, to the list.
She took a moment to chat with us about those influences, goals and future plans as part of our Indie Spotlight Series. Jean also shared the latest single “You Are My Everything” with us as she looks to make her vocal mark in the music industry.
Check out “You Are My Everything” and the interview below and make sure to purchase your copy of “Natalie Jean” on iTunes today.
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Describe your music for those who have never heard it.
I would like to call my songs contemporary Jazz. I am a multi-nominated award winning singer/songwriter. I write and perform for many genres, however, I wanted to create something that the older generation and younger generation could relate too.
Who is your favorite Artist?
I love Celine Dion, Michael Buble and Sam Smith. I love Celine Dion because of her delivery and her story. Michael Buble is a phenomenal performer and singer. I love the way he captivates his audience. I just discovered Sam Smith. I am in love with his voice and his story. He sings a lot of ballads, which I do as well, but he conveys so much emotion. It is amazing.
Tell us about your song “You Are My Everything”.
“You Are My Everything,” is a song that describes how you feel when you are with the perfect love. It is the first jazz song that I wrote and it is my favorite.
What inspired you to pursue music?
My father , Guy R. Jean is famous Haitian singer, and we used to sing Haitian folk songs at home when I was younger. I love music and the way it makes me feel. It also allows me to be able to help others by relating to a particular experience. Music is one art that can bring people together.
What has been your greatest career accomplishment so far?
This has been a great year music wise. I have received over 20 songwriting nominations for my songs. I would have to say the biggest accomplishment would be to be featured on WPFW 89.3fm. I was on their radio show August 27th.
What has been your biggest challenge?
There is a challenge of trusting the different business that offer help to indie artists. There are a lot of scammers, and you have to be very mindful of those that you deal with.
What’s your career goal for the year?
Career goal for the rest of the year is to push my new album and get a record deal. I also plan on releasing a French album. I sing in French, Spanish, and Creole as well.
