Jake White Talks New Single, "Brightside"!
Singer-Songwriter Jake White recently dropped his single, “Brightside” and Pop Nerd Lounge had the pleasure of speaking with him about the new track. We learn more about the newly minted University of Michigan alum and how he uses music as his vehicle for storytelling.
If you had to lose one of your five senses which would you be able to part with?
J: It would have to be smell, because I love to hear and sing music, to see while composing music, and to touch the one I love.
Let’s talk about this new single, “Brightside!” It was giving me John Mayer meets Owl City vibes. What artists were influencing you when you created the song?
J: Thanks, I can get into that! Sam Smith, Shawn Mendes, The Weekend, Joji, Sza, Lil Nas X, and Adam Levine have all inspired me musically.
What story do you want to share with “Brightside?”
J: Brightside is a pop song about seeking love with an upbeat and playful vibe. It’s the third song in my journey to be in the right headspace to invite the right kind of love into my life. It’s like I’ve been taking the audience with me on my journey to becoming the best version of myself who is ready for a healthy relationship.
Who is someone that you can’t wait to tell good news to?
J: My mom, she’s amazing. She’s always been so supportive of me, has always given me unwavering love and support, and has shown me what it means to be a good parent, friend, and spouse. She’s also my “momager,” my creative consultant, and my biggest fan.
For creatives, a lot of us can fear being surrounded by people who are more excelled/experienced than we are. How do we frame that into a more positive mindset?
J: I believe there are more opportunities than ever for new artists. There’s no need to be intimidated by the competition of all of the aspiring singers out there. You don’t need to win a reality show, there’s still a space for you, if you get connected with the right people who guide you through the process. You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Focus on what you do best and on finding the niche for your voice and your talent, then laser focus on it and be open to opportunities as they arise. You never know when you’re going to meet the right person or get that first break. One of my favorite things about being a musician is every time I hear a new song or discover a new artist I feel like I learn more about music, as well as individual artists’ creativity. I love collaborating with other creatives – everyone is capable of learning from each other no matter how skilled you are! We can all have each other’s backs.
What are you most excited about for your next musical chapter?
J: I will be collabing with another artist this summer. I am also going to try to learn how to promote my music on TikTok. I am also currently working on a five-song EP to be released late summer or early fall.