During my visit to the USA in 2013, I met with Jennifer Paige. She invited us to come to her Christmas gig at Orchard Supply Hardware store in Yorba Linda, CA. Being the Voice in their recent Jingle, Jen had numerous Christmas gigs for the company. She was also promoting her wonderful Christmas album.
Excuse the blurry photo. We had actually just arrive in LA that afternoon and headed straight to the gig hence the piece of luggage Christian was holding!
Christian, Tina & Jennifer Paige
“I see you blowin me a kiss… it doesn’t take a scientist… to understand what’s goin on…baby….”
I bet those lyrics just rolled off your tongue…(it’s just like riding a bike but in the singing sense).
“Crush” was the song you needed up your sleeves, if you were in the Sydney Cover band scene 12 years ago! Many singers have agreed that they found themselves quiet clever just being able to string the words together…it was a wonderful song to sing and I fondly remember it being heavily requested during my gigs.
I am so honoured to have Jennifer Paige as our special guest artist. Jen generously shares her music industry experiences in the hope of inspiring our One Voice students and budding performers! It’s also the day of her new project release.
- Tell us what you have been up to since your hit song “Crush”?
After my debut release, my album went gold/platinum in 16 countries and I toured the world for two years. I came back to Los Angeles to record my 2nd album, Positively Somewhere. Again, more touring; and, the recording of my 3rd album, Best Kept Secret. My most recent release was last December with my first Christmas record, Holiday. I’ve been fortunate enough to continue making records and to also sing on many behind the scenes projects for films like Autumn in New York, Simply Irrisistible and Smart People and lots of tv shows. I’ve been the voice of countless advertising campaigns, most recently, Overstock.com; and I’ve written songs for other artists, including the bands York and Smashmouth. A lot has happened in the years following my first single, “Crush”. I’m always grateful for the opportunities that come my way, and every new accomplishment is a reminder to keep walking in the direction of my dreams.
- When did you know you wanted to make singing your career and how did it come about?
I’ve known since I was a little girl – maybe 5 years old, or so. It became more serious for me in High School. I did many talent shows and was accepted into the Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts. After school I went on the road with a band and eventually moved to Los Angeles to pursue my dreams of becoming a recording artist. I sang for anyone who would listen. I sang in local bands and sang demos for many local songwriters, including hit-songwriter Andy Goldmark. We ended up making my first record together. It was a very natural process. No one could’ve predicted I would have my first record deal within a year of moving to L.A. Fate, luck – who knows?
- What is the best advice you can give a young singer who wants to make a career in music?
Sing anywhere & everywhere. Family events, church, talent shows, auditions, learn to play an instrument, join a band, begin writing poems and lyrics. If you don’t play an instrument, don’t stress – that’s why we co-write. Best advice I can give you: When your big break comes, be ready. 🙂
- Where does your inspiration for songwriting or singing come from?
Every day life, people. nature, a great story, movies!
- Do you take singing lessons or any sort of training?
I sing quite a bit in songwriting sessions & recording sessions so that keeps my voice in shape. I think it’s a great idea to contunue lessons, no matter what level of ability you have; but, if I’m honest, I haven’t made the time for lessons in a very long time. I am pretty aware of my vocal strengths and weaknesses, and I always try be well prepared for recording. Even something simple like drinking hot tea with honey and warming up my voice on the drive to the studio can make all the difference.
- What are your future plans?
I’m gearing up to release my latest with my duo, Paige & Palermo – Stay EP releases on June 4, 2013
- How did you develop your new sound?
Other than a duet with Nick Carter from the Backstreet Boys, and a couple of international collaborations, I’ve worked as a solo artist. Paige & Palermo is myself and a talented artist named Coury Palermo. We co-created this new sound while writing the songs and experimenting with different styles. Our style is very much a combination of both of our solo styles – that produced a somewhat moody, singer/songwriter infused Pop.
- What advice would you give a parent who has a child interested in making a career in Music?
Pray. A lot. It aint for the faint of heart. That’s what my parents would say… 😉
- Best advice anyone has ever given you?
Know who you are as an artist. No one has the time or the energy to figure that out for you.
Once again! Thank you for reading and contributing to the conversation! We love to hear from you…
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