With her radiant new single 'Over Proud', Liverpool-based artist Jennifer Ness begins 2026 on a wave of bold, synth-driven empowerment. Inspired by 80s icons like Madonna and the fearless self-expression of artists like Lady Gaga, 'Over Proud' is a shimmering pop statement; unapologetic, body-positive, and brimming with confidence.
Her latest single is a rallying cry for self-acceptance, and a reminder that worth isn’t conditional. For Jennifer, confidence isn’t earned, it’s claimed. That clarity runs through every pulse of the beat and every lyric she delivers. With a First-Class degree in Songwriting & Performance and three consecutive Women in Music recognitions, she’s already carving out a distinct presence in the pop world: emotive, fearless, and deeply grounded in lived experience.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The piano — I absolutely love it. I’ll often listen to songs and think, wow… I wish I could play like that. There’s an acoustic version of “November Rain” that still blows me away.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
A real mix. I used to go to rehearsals with my nan, mum and aunty — they were in a singing group and performed for charity in nursing homes across Liverpool. So I grew up around everything from The Supremes, Cher, Billie Piper, Whitney Houston and Celine Dion, to Michael Jackson and P!nk — and of course my all-time favourites… the Spice Girls.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Whitney Houston’s debut album. I remember “Saving All My Love,” “Greatest Love of All,” and “How Will I Know” being on repeat.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Flowers by Miley Cyrus. I love that song so much that I actually chose it for one of my music production course assignments, where we had to create a replica of a track. It has such an inspiring message, infused with a feel-good ’70s disco vibe, which makes it completely iconic.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I’m an empath, so I try to really immerse myself in the song — the lyrics, the instruments, the feeling behind it. That’s why I try to keep my writing as positive and inspiring as possible. I genuinely believe you feel songs as much as you hear them, and if I go too deep into something sad, I can carry that emotion with me for a while afterwards.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Becky Hill — I love her energy and the way her music lifts you.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
The Spice Girls (especially a reunion!). If only — but honestly, that would be the dream.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Knowing I can help people through my music. One of the best compliments I’ve ever received was when my song Precious Boy was used at someone’s funeral. Being part of something so meaningful was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Social media. It’s an amazing tool for exposure, but it can also be mentally draining — and honestly, sometimes it’s something I fear. People can treat criticism like it’s “acceptable” just because it’s online, and it isn’t. You only have to look at someone like Meghan Trainor — she’s had hurtful comments about her appearance then and now, and she’s absolutely beautiful in both. Social media can bring opportunities, but it can also bring unnecessary cruelty.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Stay authentic. A tutor once told me that no matter how tempting it is to try and go viral, never compromise who you are and what you stand for. Your true fans will find you — even if it takes a little longer.
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Jennifer Ness' new single 'Over Proud' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.