Jordyn Stoddard
Everybody knows I love Nashville-based artists. I’m so happy to get to feature another great artist. Her name is Jordyn Stoddard and she released her latest single “What’s Mine” last month. The empowering pop single was co-written with Natalie Madigan and produced by Amy Peters (Hii Amy !!) & Dan Swank. With infectious melodies and solid vocals, “What’s Mine” is introducing Stoddard as a stunning songwriter and artist.
“What’s Mine” is now available worldwide :)
Photo credit: Luke Rodgers
Lighting: Daniel Chaney
Styling: Kathryn Chaney
MUAH: Madison Pruitt
Introduce yourself - what's your story?
I was born and raised in Jacksonville Beach, Fl. My dad took me to my first concert when I was 6 years old (which was Cher), and I immediately fell in love with the art of performing. I was mesmerized by the stage sets, costumes, and live performance as a whole. I had a passion for music at an extremely young age and thankfully my parents recognized that and put me in voice lessons, piano lessons, and guitar lessons. Around the age of 12 I started writing my first songs and was very influenced by Taylor Swift, this started my career as a songwriter and artist. After high school I moved to Nashville to pursue that dream.
How would you define Jordyn Stoddard, the artist?
Jordyn Stoddard is where fashion, theatrics, and songwriting intersect. My creativity thrives off of taking risks with not only music, but in my fashion and my personal life.
"What's Mine" is your latest single - what's the story/inspiration behind this song?
“What's Mine” was originally a Selena Gomez pitch. I resonated with its message because it’s a topic I am comfortable talking about and wanting to ensure others to feel that same confidence. It’s how I’ve always lived my life.
When did you start working on this song? Could you describe the songwriting/production process? Who helped you create it?
Over quarantine I spent my time creating with my closest friends. So much music came from that time in our lives. We had no obligations so inspiration came naturally. I wrote this with Natalie Madigan, who is one of my best friends and another amazing artist in town. The writing process was more of a conversation than your traditional session. Our friendship is special because we have real life discussions that eventually turn into songs.
What did you feel when writing this song?
EMPOWERED.
What can you tell us about the artwork?
The artwork is one of my favorite parts of being an artist. I love being able to bring my songs to life through artwork and other creative outlets. I had a whole concept in mind when it came to this song. The pre chorus has a poker reference. “Counting Cards, Weighted Dice.” My mind immediately thought of Las Vegas, with dark glamour and gambling. I wanted the fashion to feel classic with an edgy modern approach.
How do people respond to the song so far?
This was my introduction into the pop world, and I feel like everyone knew I belonged there this whole time. Everyone just got it. Nobody questioned it. It’s always been who I am, it just took time for my music to evolve and get to that point.
For those who don't know, how's it like to release a single in 2021 as an independent artist? What different steps an artist needs to take before releasing a project like this one?
BELIEVE IN YOUR WORK. That should be number one on every independent artist’s checklist. Everyone’s musical journey is different, and everyone has their own timeline. Be patient with yourself and take risks. No one has the same success story.
As an artist, what is the hardest part? And what is the best part?
The hardest part of being an artist is comparing yourself. It’s so easy to question your value and if what you're doing is cool. But the best part is when someone on the other end can relate with what you hold so close to your heart.
What are your thoughts on today's music industry? If you could change one thing, what would it be?
We are living in a time where the music industry is changing constantly. Social media and streaming platforms have opened a world which has allowed more people to be successful. There is so much room at the top and the benefits of having these platforms allows so many talented artists to be discovered. If I could change one thing… that “numbers” won’t define whether or not you are a great artist.
What lessons have you learned since the beginning of your career?
To be kind to myself. Most artists and creatives work so hard to get the perfect response from others, and when things don’t always go according to plan, we focus on how we can change our work/ourselves to find that validation from our audience and listeners. My biggest lesson is to just create and to stop thinking about what I think others might say or think. My art is my art and it is who I am.
What advice would you give to young artists?
If you have a dream… chase it. You are never too early and you are never too late.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
“I wish we could all get along like we used to in middle school... I wish I could bake a cake filled with rainbows and smiles and everyone would eat and be happy...“ - Mean Girls.
What message do you want to deliver to the world?
We’re so quick to judge before we take the time to fully understand someone. I know this is cliche, but you don't always know someone’s story or what they’re going through, so try to give everyone grace. Keep your heart and mind open.
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