RAINE: What was the creative inspiration that put you on the path to pursuing a career in music?

JEAN: I started writing music at 9 because I fell in love with fantasy. Capturing melody through storytelling gave me the outlet I needed. I spent a lot of time by myself as a child.

RAINE: What can music offer as a platform when compared to other forms of creativity?

JEAN: Sound is powerful, it creeps messages into your subconscious. It's such a spiritual force. Cleansing through sound is powerful. I'm very picky with what I meditate on.

RAINE: Who would you say are your main creative influences?

JEAN: Beyonce made me want to work super hard, Wizkid inspired me to celebrate African culture however and wherever, Pink pushed me to write from a real place, and Rihanna - well international baddie? That alone is a W. I love Vivaldi for cleansing.

Regarding inspiration, it's really every creative doing what they love and me witnessing it in the right moment. It ranges from Tik Tokers getting me together powered by the algo to my mom telling me stories of her life, making me realize the strength I have within me. I draw from so much.

RAINE: What do you hope listeners can take away from your new release material?

JEAN: Power. You are the power, all of it is in you.

RAINE: What are the best ways to avoid burnout as a creator?

JEAN: Turn it all off and be so busy enjoying love that you don't have time to have FOMO.

RAINE: Have you got any exciting collaborations coming up?

JEAN: I'm excited about the producers I'm getting to work with. They are so empowering and talented. Efya is a powerhouse of talent, our creation will be magnificently immortal.

RAINE: How has your musical sound evolved over the course of your career?

JEAN: Every year I become a stronger more complete person. That reflects in everything I do and create. I'm grateful to God for allowing me to see each season with fresh eyes and renewed strength. You can hear it in my music. I used to exclusively release demos on SoundCloud because of my obsessive need to feel like it's time. My experiments over the years opened doors for me and brought people and experiences that have made me ready for the world. Made my sound ready to inspire. I'm just grateful time has been good to me.

Shot by Eboni Jazmine
Styled by Eboni Jazmine
Hair and Makeup by Hiroshi Djin
Outfit by Shane Justin
Location: Portugal