Canadian singer/songwriter/producer Jojo Worthington unveiled her new single “Stabilize” on January 18th.

Produced by Jojo Worthington and William Crann, the song offers a powerful message for those affected by mental illness. The Ontario-based artist also asks for people to support the ones in need to “stabilize” the world around us.

“The only way we will ever be able to navigate this world is if we work together and support one another. I hope the song will encourage everyone to extend an open and understanding hand to those who need it,” says Worthington.

“Stabilize” is the first single off her upcoming project "TCYK" set to be released this year.

Introduce yourself - where are you from?

My name is JoJo Worthington and I'm from Kitchener- Waterloo in Ontario, Canada.

What's your story?

I don't know yet!

Growing up, what were you passionate about?

Very passionate about spongebob square pants, Runescape, beyblades and musical theatre!

When did you start writing songs?

I remember writing my first song when I was about 10 years old...I think it was about butterflies, haha. I didn't know how to write with an instrument, but I remember imagining all the different instruments and parts in my head. When I was 14, my oldest brother bought be a guitar and as I was learning it, the songs began to come... All of them were about boys I had crushes on, haha.

What was your first experience in the music industry?

When I was 17 I took a music studio class at my high school, and that's how I ended up writing and creating my first album. Through that experience, I learnt how much work actually goes into an album and how much money and time you need to sacrifice into your creations...

You've just released your new single "Stabilize". What's the story behind this song?

I originally wrote the song about someone very close to me who has mental illness and at this time, does not seek treatment or help for it. The song really stemmed from a place of frustration for this person and not being able to understand why they wouldn't seek help... asking them to "stabilize" when really they have no idea how to do that. From there, I've realized that the song is about supporting each other. Not just with mental health, but also with supporting women and the communities around us who are in need...The only way we will ever be able to navigate this world is if we work together and support one another. I hope the song will encourage everyone to extend an open and understanding hand to those who need it.

Could you describe us the songwriting process for this song?

This is probably the only song I've ever written within Logic. I began looping a violin and marimba part and expanding upon it within the program. The first draft of the song was very Disney-esque. Then I asked myself, "how the heck am I going to play this live?". The version that is now released really just came form me messing around on my sample pad and organelle and just looping the heck out of everything.

How was it like to work with William Crann on this song?

I am so lucky to work with Will. We've been friends for a while and he has supported me from the very beginning. He is a brilliant engineer. Our ideas flow off each other's and I think that's what makes us a good team. He's also just a really good person, haha.

What can you tell us about the music video? What was the inspiration behind it?

I knew I wanted the video to be monochromatic but honestly didn't really have any vision for the video itself. That is all Kristyn and Ed. Originally the video was going to be 1 take, but later we realized we could do some really cool stuff if we created different sets. I bought a lot of the furniture from Goodwill, and some of it is even my own. Kristyn did an incredible job with the visuals and matching all of my outfits. I remember being amazed with how fast she painted all of the sets. What you're looking at in the video is one room with different walls painted with different themes.

Ed is a wonderful director. I couldn't believe how fast the video came together. I think the kaleidoscope effect at the end works perfectly with how beautifully chaotic life is.

Why do you make music? What keeps you motivated?

I don't know why this is the path that I'm walking in. I have no idea how I got here, but God has put me here so I'm going with it. I really have no idea what I'm doing. Once a woman came up to me after a show and told me that over the years, she had built up so much stress in her shoulders and back and after she heard my music said all that pain left her body. That comment has stayed with me for years and I realized...that's been my motivation for a long time... that's why I make music. Just trying to move people emotionally with the message and offer some kind of benefit to their lives.

What does singing make you feel?

Singing doesn't really do anything for me...It's something I'm good at, and a tool I use to get my lyrics and messages across, and getting to share those messages is a wonderful thing.

Would you consider songwriting as a form of therapy?

I believe that's what music is, yes.

What are the biggest struggles you've had to overcome so far? How did you overcome them?

I could probably whine about a bunch of things, but I know I haven't experienced the worst of it.

What biggest lessons have you learnt as a human being and as an artist?

Music isn't everything and it's not about me. It's about people.

What advices would you give to the younger generations?

Know your craft 10x better than anyone. Never give up and don't do drugs!

What appeals you the most about Ontario?

I'm a part of a community here...It's where I've grown up...It's where I have connections, family, friends, people who support me. Honestly, I'm just here for the buck-a-beer I was promised.

What are your goals for 2019?

I'd like to collaborate with more people in my community...make more side projects... I'd also like to finally learn how to do a cartwheel properly.

In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?

"Love your neighbour as yourself"..."neighbour" meaning: not just people you like.

What's your purpose?

Haven't we already answered this? To do a cartwheel!

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