Jen Moon
Ontario native Jen Moon sends you into a dreamworld with her r&b soundscape. The 19-year-old singer/songwriter released her debut album Moonology earlier this year, which includes some of her most popular songs to date. Her project seemed to be a hit with fans and Spotify playlist curators alike, as songs like “Superego” and “Notice” have attracted significant streaming attention. Her music has evolved into a distinct style, but retains a clear influence from acts like Daniel Caesar and Jhene Aiko. As of Sept. 2020, Jen Moon has gained a notable following of nearly 40 thousand monthly Spotify listeners. Her last single, “Room for Two”,-- a collaboration with fellow artists xiv and hello--- was released on August 28th. We recently spoke to the artist about how she started making music, writing “Superego”, and more!
How did you start making music?
Before I really knew how to play any instruments well, I would write random lyrics or stories when I was younger, just for fun. It wasn’t until high school when I actually started to write more personal and meaningful lyrics. Once I knew how to play more chords on the piano, it enabled me to play around with melodies and create some of my own songs.
Who are some of your greatest influences?
Some of my greatest influences would be H.E.R, Jhene Aiko, Daniel Caesar, and Summer Walker. I feel like these artists greatly influenced me while I was trying to find my own sound and style during high school. I would listen to them nonstop because I loved their individual sounds and lyricism.
Take us through your process in making “Superego”.
My producer Andrew and I wrote “Superego” while we were chilling in our friend’s basement after a recording session. We somehow ended up talking about philosophy and psychology, more specifically about the concept of one’s subconscious and the battle between “good” and “bad.” With this song, I wanted to try and show what this inner conflict would look like within a person’s mind. The term “Superego” comes from Sigmund Freud’s theory on this (the one everyone learns about in high school), which I used as the basis for the lyrics. The lyrics and melody were all written within that one session, and it was definitely the most organic songwriting process out of all the others for this album.
Who would be a dream collab for you?
Other than the artists I mentioned above, I would say 6lack. He’s also one of my favourite artists, and he kills it on every collab/feature he does. So working with him would be so cool.
Other than making music, what are some of your hobbies?
I used to hate running and physical activity, but quarantine can really change a person lol. While being home and sedentary all the time, I really started to appreciate how refreshed physical activity can make me feel. It really helps me clear my mind when I’m stressed.
Do you have a dream venue?
It would be a dream to perform at Massey Hall in Toronto. Out of all the smaller/medium sized concert venues I’ve been to (and I’ve been to a lot), this one was by far the most beautiful one I’ve been to. I remember when I went there for the first time to watch Tori Kelly live, and the acoustics in there were so good. I also really like smaller venues because it feels a lot more intimate between the artists and the fans. So yeah, I’d love to perform there.
What do you have planned for the future?
I’m currently working on various visual projects for my debut album, MOONOLOGY, and will possibly be collaborating on some songs with other artists as well, so stay tuned.
