Purveyor of: Peaceful rumination, slow dancing with yourself in the dark, looking up at the sky and wondering how fast clouds are really moving.
File Next to: Solange Knowles, Isla Den, Hua Li
Playing: Saturday, August 15th 2020 at our 800th show/Mini-Fest on Facebook Live!
Janette King is a multi-disciplinary producer, vocalist, and DJ based in Montreal. Her lyrics are earnest and vulnerable, speaking hard truths when friendships and relationships come to an end. Backing her voice is a dreamy blend of beats and vintage fuzzy synth sounds, comforting the listener with the truth that time heals all. King released EP 143 (remember that text code?) last summer, which launched her touring to a new level. Her first full length, What We Lost, is set to be released in May 2021. Wavelength’s Emma Bortolon-Vettor had a chance to ask Janette a few questions about her work and creativity during a pandemic.
Could you tell us about the thought processes going behind the writing and creation of your forthcoming album, What We Lost?
I would say that this album is more of a compilation of songs about loss. I had had a year of losing a partnership, a friendship, a sense of self and also I had almost lost a family member. When I write my lyrics, I always write from personal experience so that is what happened with this album.
You have led workshops providing information to the LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and Womxn on how to properly receive funding and applying to FACTOR grants. Are you still running workshops?
As of right now, no I am not working with FACTOR to run these workshops but I might run a workshop with them in the future. I am also thinking about doing a workshop dedicated to teaching black folks and non-black people who have black kids how to treat and work with black hair. Hair is also another passion of mine and I have my own afro-textured, curly focused hair business.
As a producer, what types of technology are you using to mix and create?
I work with Logic and Final Cut Pro for music production and video editing. I also use a Roland SP for sampling while on stage.
How has the pandemic affected your identity as an artist?
I would say that I am more connected to creating now and simultaneously more connected to the people that follow me on social media. More time equals more ability to be creative for me! It has been nice.
What do you hope to see change after this wave of isolation and uncertainty?
I hope to see a greater shift in people’s ability to believe in themselves. People have been forced to take on new challenges that perhaps they never thought they could accomplish before and I hope that instills a sense of confidence in them.
Who are you listening to at the moment?
Jacksoul – “Somedays”
Don’t miss Janette King at our Wavelength 800 livestream mini-fest on August 15 on Facebook Live.