As singer/songwriter Jazzie Young eagerly anticipates the release of her debut LP ‘Everything Changes,’ she reflects on the collaborative process and the various lyrical inspirations—ranging from profound heartbreak to simply enjoying an old favorite film—that contributed to the project’s creation.
Stream: “Waiting on You!” – Jazzie Young
“Ah, change is good,” remarked Rafiki the mandrill in The Lion King. “Yeah, but it’s not easy,” Simba the lion responded.
It’s unclear if this scene ever crossed Jazzie Young's mind—she is a self-proclaimed fan of animated films—but the central concept does resonate as a significant theme in her upcoming album, aptly titled Everything Changes.
“I have a complicated love-hate relationship with change,” Jazzie shares. “On one hand, the idea that things can be different and better is exhilarating; it drives us forward. On the other, it can feel like a constant threat to what you already possess... Nothing remains the same forever, and when you find yourself in a good place, that can feel rather menacing.”
Change has been a recurring element in Young’s life, having moved numerous times. Born in northern California, she spent her childhood in Hawaii and South Carolina before settling in Los Angeles. This latest location has enabled her to build connections within the local music scene, including collaborations with Day Wave, an indie rock project led by Jackson Phillips, as well as sound producers Isaiah Jose and John Velasquez.
All these individuals have played a role in the making of Everything Changes, which is scheduled for release this summer. Young has offered glimpses of the album through several singles, including “Waiting on You!,” which expresses the thoughts of a romantic interest occupying her mind (“Your name in my head like every night, take my heart out of my chest, can you tell me what’s next?”). Another track, “Mr. Casual,” provides a pointed critique of the “situationship” culture prevalent in today’s society. Additionally, one song emerged from a prompt devised by Young and her producers: the idea to write from the perspective of a cherished movie character, ultimately leading them to portray Lux Lisbon, played by Kirsten Dunst in 1999’s The Virgin Suicides.
In a recent chat with Atwood Magazine, Young elaborated on the intricate process of creating her full-length album—especially focusing on how each individual track would contribute to a cohesive narrative and artistic expression, and how she eventually reached the point of feeling that goal had been accomplished.
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A CONVERSATION WITH JAZZIE YOUNG
This interview has been slightly edited for brevity and clarity.
Atwood Magazine: Over the years, what have been significant highlights and areas of growth in your journey as a recording artist?
Jazzie Young: I've experienced substantial growth. Many of my projects have been EPs rather than solely singles, allowing me to reflect on different phases of my life and the music I produced at those times. I can see how my exploration of production, songwriting, harmony, and collaboration has evolved. It’s enjoyable to recognize those milestones and how far I’ve come, especially when being objective about my progress can be challenging.
With this latest album, I met many musicians in LA for the first time. It was the first experience where I co-wrote songs, collaborating with four or five others, and working closely with my primary producer introduced me to the intimate and impactful connection that collaboration brings. Already, as I begin writing again, even before this album's release, I notice my growth—that I've taken lessons learned and applied them to new projects.
How has transitioning from creating individual songs to crafting EPs and now a new LP shaped your artistic process?
Jazzie Young: It’s a much longer process. This album took about eight months to complete. For everyone, it varies, but I think there’s significantly more attention placed on it. EPs often feel like just a collection of songs, like, “Oh, I’ve produced a specific number of songs during this time, let’s group them,” serving as a snapshot of where I was then. An album, however, is approached more consciously. You want to love each song, but some don't make the final cut. As you progress, you start to ask, “What’s missing sonically? Is there a different emotion to explore?” There’s more intention behind it, considering whether something needs new instrumentation or ensuring there’s enough variety so that it doesn’t all sound repetitive.
You’re currently living in Los Angeles, but where are you originally from?
Jazzie Young: I actually hail from Northern California. I spent my formative years on the Big Island of Hawaii and then South Carolina. I've moved around quite a bit.
How has living in these various places influenced your artistry and music?
Jazzie Young: Growing up in the
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As the launch of her debut LP 'Everything Changes' approaches, singer/songwriter Jazzie Young reflects on the collaborative journey and the lyrical inspirations—ranging from significant heartbreak to the simple act of watching a beloved old movie—that led to the project's completion.