Kat Harlton
With a sound reminiscent of icons Aaliyah, Mya, and the classic R&B sound of the early 2000’s, Justine Tyrell‘s sultry vocals and traditional R&B melodies come with a fresh, modern day flare, and have piqued the attention of music critics across Canada and beyond.
A proud supporter of the Black Lives Matter community in her hometown and across the country, Justine is a trusted voice within the movement and was called on for her insight and commentary by numerous television and instagram live outlets throughout the summer.
“My Name” showcases a new side of Justine’s vocal and production talent, as the artist challenged herself to be her own vocal producer and personally created layered harmonies that help bring the song to life. Justine focused on keeping the music slow and simplistic to allow space for her vocals to take the forefront. Her most sensual and romantic song off of her upcoming EP, “My Name” allows fans to discover another layer of Justine’s talents, this time through her alluring new tune.
We had the opportunity to chat with Justine, about her single, her creative process and what’s next.
Kat: Can you talk about the inspiration behind your latest single “My Name”?
Justine: This song came to me on a day where I was wrapped in a blanket, feeling so under the weather, flipping through different song start ideas on my computer. As soon as I landed on this progression, it provoked this great hypnotic and sultry vibe that allowed me to indulge a totally different, intimate, yet self-empowered side of myself. The reversed nature of the lead line gave me this thought of ‘a love someone just keeps going back to’ or ‘can’t get enough of.’ I wanted the song to feel passionate, yet unmistakably confident – while leaving lots of space for layered vocal production, and subtle harmonic moments.
Kat: What do you hope fans take from the track?
Justine: To feel unapologetically confident and comfortable. To feel good in your skin.
Kat: What do you find is the most challenging part of your creative process?
Justine: Knowing where to draw the line between pushing to get something as good as I feel it can be – versus obsessing, and not letting go of details. I really have to make sure I actively manage those moments, otherwise I find myself getting stuck and slowed down, in the creative process.
Kat: What has been a career highlight for you so far? What have you learned along the way?
Justine: I was a massive fan of Tom Cochrane growing up. One year, we performed at the same show, then my band and I got to enjoy the best, up close performance of his. He jumped off stage, we formed a dance circle, and I scream-sang, ‘Life is a Highway’, while sobbing profusely. It was the first time my journey in music intersected with an artist that I grew up loving. I’ve learned not to take yourself too seriously.
Kat: What’s next?
Justine: More music on the way, with my debut EP coming out this spring!
For more on Justine, visit: https://www.justinetyrell.com