Liverpool-based singer-songwriter and creative storyteller Jennifer Ness is bringing together her passion for music, family and imaginative storytelling with a festive project designed to inspire young audiences. Having received recognition within Liverpool's independent music community, she continues to explore new creative possibilities, combining accessible songwriting with heartfelt themes and engaging narratives.
Her latest single 'Little Helpers' is a joyful celebration of Christmas traditions, capturing the excitement of decorating trees, wrapping presents and creating special memories together. Inspired by her own children, the track combines playful lyrics, warm harmonies and cheerful festive instrumentation to create an uplifting sing-along experience for the whole family.
So with the new single out 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?
Definitely the piano! I absolutely love the sound of it. There's something so beautiful and expressive about it. Although, I have to admit, I can't actually play an instrument!
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I've always loved a wide variety of music, but growing up, I absolutely adored Disney films and their soundtracks. I loved how music could tell a story and make you feel so many different emotions. I also loved powerful vocalists like Whitney Houston. I think that combination of storytelling and emotion has definitely influenced my songwriting.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I remember it was Whitney (1987) by Whitney Houston! I absolutely loved her music growing up. What an incredible voice!
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I've actually never really thought about that before! I think I've always been so busy writing my own songs that I've never really wished I'd written somebody else's. There are so many incredible songs that I admire, though!
However, if I could write with absolutely anyone, it would definitely be Alan Menken! I've always loved Disney music and the way he brings stories and characters to life through his compositions. As someone who loves storytelling through songwriting, I think that would be an absolute dream come true!
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I don't really like forcing songwriting. I love allowing ideas to develop naturally, whether that's through an emotion, a story or something that suddenly pops into my head. Sometimes I'll start with lyrics, other times a melody.
I'm currently studying for my Master's in Songwriting, which has encouraged me to explore different songwriting methodologies and experiment with new creative approaches. For example, I recently wrote another Christmas song called The Gift of You for one of my assignments, where I closed my eyes and used my imagination to develop the story and explore the emotions behind it.
I also love writing from the perspective of different characters. When I'm doing this, I really take the time to get to know them. I think about their personalities, how they would communicate, the words they would use and even how they might pronounce certain things. If I'm writing something set in a particular time period or historical era, I'll research the language to make sure it feels authentic.
For me, songwriting isn't just about putting words to music. It's about understanding the story I'm trying to tell and finding the most believable and meaningful way to tell it.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
My playlist is a bit of a mixture at the moment! I've been listening to Jess Glynne, Bebe Rexha, Nickelback, Jessie J and 4 Non Blondes. I love so many different styles of music, and I'm definitely still in my summer playlist mode! Hahaha! I think my varied taste in music is reflected in my songwriting too, as I love experimenting with different genres rather than sticking to just one.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Oooo, I think I'd have to say Beyoncé! Not only because I admire her music, but because I have so much respect for her work ethic and the level of dedication she puts into her performances. I think knowing I was opening for someone like Beyoncé would push me to be the absolute best version of myself for that one spectacular night! Hahaha!
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
For me, it's knowing that something I've created can mean something to somebody else, and hopefully help them in some way. I absolutely love songwriting, especially being able to tell stories, express emotions and connect with people through music.
I think the world needs a little more inspiration, kindness and positivity at the moment, and if my music can bring even a little smile to someone's face, a little warmth or a moment of happiness, then I've achieved exactly what I set out to do.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Probably how difficult it can be to get your music heard! There's so much more to being an independent artist than just writing and recording songs. You're also trying to manage releases, promotion, social media and everything else that comes with it. I absolutely love what I do, but I sometimes wish I could spend all my time just creating music!
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
I've actually been given two pieces of advice from my tutors that have really stayed with me.
The first was to always stay true to myself and be authentic. Never feel that I have to change who I am or what I create to fit a particular audience, because the right audience and fans will find me.
The second was when I was studying music production. One of my tutors told me to always trust my first instinct. If I've recorded a song and something doesn't sound quite right, or I feel something could be better, I should trust that feeling.
It's so easy to become accustomed to hearing something after listening to it repeatedly. Sometimes we convince ourselves that something sounds better, when actually we've just become used to hearing it that way!
Both pieces of advice have really stayed with me, and I try to carry them into everything I create.
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Jennifer Ness' new single 'Little Helpers' is out now. Watch the new video for it in the player below.