We recently spoke with the talented North Carolina based performer Jennifer Alvarado.
OSM: Your new single, ‘Curious’ is really impressive. What was the general songwriting process and are there any interesting stories around the recording?
Thank you! I started with the chorus hook and then created a story line around it. I pretty much heard the instrumentation and background vocals as I wrote the song. I created a very rough draft and sent it to my producer. ‘Curious’ was the easiest and fastest song we’ve ever recorded.
OSM: From your point of view, what is the song about, what is its message?
I started with the idea of being ‘curious’ about someone. I know from personal experience sometimes you fall for a friend. As you learn more and more about a person, you start to have feelings, but the fear of rejection or even the situation surrounding your friendship can keep you from pursing anything more.
OSM: You have an album coming out in the summer, is there anything you can tell our readers about the album? What can we expect?
I tend to write from experience. The “Songbird” album will be released in two parts. The first part is called “Questions” and the second part is called “Answers.” It outlines a narcissistically abusive relationship from start to finish. Things start out great and quickly begin to turn. There was a period in my life where I found myself broken and these songs helped me process and heal. My hope is it can help someone else realize they are not the problem and move forward.
OSM: What challenges have you faced since launching your career?
Self doubt has always been my biggest struggle. I tend to listen to other people’s opinions a little too much and I used to find myself comparing my journey to someone else’s. You can’t do that. You were designed to have a unique voice and perspective and you can’t retain that if you are trying to copy someone else’s success.
OSM: What are your plans for the year ahead?
I want to finish the album and actually do a decent job promoting it. I feel like with every release, I learn a little more. I plan to release something for Christmas this year and I am trying to play out more consistently.
OSM: If you could change anything about the industry what would it be?
The definition of success. There is such emphasis placed on fame and fortune and people can have an amazing impact and yet be considered a ‘failure’ by the industry. I would rather be influential and impactful than famous.
OSM: If you could share the stage with another band or performer who would it be?
My gut reaction is Reba McEntire. I’ve wanted to meet her since I was nine years old. I used to go to multiple concerts of hers every year and study how she entertained and interacted with the crowd. Her stage shows were so theatrical.
OSM: What do you enjoy most about being a solo performer?
Having control. I’m a control freak…which is not always a good thing and I’m learning to chill out. However, I am able to make my own decisions and sing what I want to sing. The more people you have making decisions, the more cumbersome things can become.
OSM: What songs are on your playlist right now, which songs are you into at the moment?
I’ve been listening to a ton of classic rock lately. I’m also a huge fan of nineties alternative rock…so The Verve Pipe, Blind Melon, and Soundgarden.
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