Words by Carol Wright | Photos courtesy of Amanda Cee Media
We got to chat with singer, songwriter Jayme Claire about her single “Strut” and how she felt releasing her EP Swagger & Chrome.
When did you know you wanted to be a singer?
I was 6 or 7 years old when I knew I wanted to sing. My Kindergarten yearbook even says so!
Have you been songwriting as long as you’ve been singing?
Yes. Singing and songwriting came hand in hand since I was a little girl. Not everything was lyrics. I wrote poems, short stories, phrases, etc. Back then, I used a pencil a lot and being left-handed, I don’t remember a time that pencil wasn’t smeared alongside my left hand. My hand was buff with how much I’d write!
Tell us about your song “Strut.” What inspired the lyrics?
“Strut” is about walking past insecurities to finding confidence and inner strength. When I co-wrote this song with Heather Holley on the first day I met her at her home studio, we both asked each other, ‘What encouraging message do we want to give to women especially?’ Really, within two full studio sessions at her place, we nailed down the demo.
How did it feel to put your EP Swagger & Chrome out into the world?
Ah! I felt nerves, thrills, and lots of surreal! So much heart and soul, vulnerability, strength, and love went into this project. Having been involved as a writer on four of the five songs, it was a sense of ‘Well, here’s where I’m at as an artist, I hope you accept!’ Going the direction of pop/soul with a throwback feel was a bold decision in this modern market that I was happy I went with. I feel Swagger & Chrome embraces my authentic roots, and there are so many ways to evolve from here!
Do you have a favorite song off the EP?
Yeah, I think I do! I am constantly digging the song I fully wrote called “One Way Heartache.” I actually wrote this song back in 2012 and it’s been just hanging out with me until now. It’s one of those, in the car, windows down, sunshine, see ya later kind of songs geared for either a man or woman. It’s one of those ‘I’ve wised up’ kinds of songs that I hope will empower someone to realize they don’t have to be a victim of heartbreak and have a choice to identify the red flags beforehand.
What advice do you have for aspiring singers?
Hmm, how about I start with the world owes you nothing. If the core of what you do is for fame, you will find quickly that the struggles you will face will be in vain. Identify in your core: why do you sing? Why will you put yourself through hell and high waters and a long valley of patience? If after you answer this question with strong resolve, then hone your craft, never stop learning, and make sure that your purpose-filled reasons for singing get heard by as many people who will listen!
Keep up with Jayme Claire!
