Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Joslyn Shepard
THE RELEASE
Joslyn Shepard is a multi-talented musician based in Wallkill, NY. With a passion for music that dates back to her childhood, she started performing at the age of five and began writing songs at eleven. Joslyn's musical journey has been shaped by a diverse range of influences, including Phoebe Bridgers, Lizzy McAlpine, boygenius, Paramore, Harry Styles, and Fleetwood Mac. Her songs merge emotional lyrics with entrancing melodies to portray the unfiltered feelings and frankness of her subjects. In addition to her solo work, Joslyn is also part of the acoustic duo Juice Box, performing covers across The Hudson Valley and Long Island. Drawing inspiration from her personal experiences, Joslyn's music resonates with listeners, evoking introspection and a deep connection to the human experience.
"Afraid To Fall" is a poignant song that delves into the complexities of falling in love for the second time. It explores the strange mixture of fear, excitement, and distrust that arises when one's heart has been broken before. Joslyn Shepard's lyrics carry immense vulnerability, reflecting the inner turmoil and the questions that arise when faced with the possibility of new love. Despite the apprehension, the music itself brings a sense of momentum and optimism, propelling the listener on a journey of self-discovery and emotional resilience. With Joslyn's soulful vocals and her mastery of the guitar and keyboard, "Afraid To Fall" showcases her artistic depth and ability to capture and convey the intricacies of human emotions through music. The single was recorded on Long Island, in collaboration with producer Billy Adams and fellow musicians Brian Ross and Ethan Sarisky, who are not only talented individuals but also close to Joslyn's heart. The production of the song beautifully integrates the vocal runs with the overall sound, resulting in an incredible mix that allows Joslyn's vocals to shine through with clarity and intensity. The recording process involved a combination of in-person and remote work, highlighting the dedication and artistic collaboration that brought this song to life.
THE INTERVIEW
What song or moment in time sparked your passion for music?
I have been in love with music for as long as I can remember, my parents were always playing music of all different kinds around the house. My mom would always play the Rent soundtrack and my dad would play his Motley Crew CD. I learned how to perform and play piano at a very young age. But, I would say the moment of inspiration that sticks out in my mind is the first time I ever sang on a stage. Of course, it wasn’t a very big stage… I was in kindergarten performing a song from High School Musical in my elementary school talent show. Even though I forgot the words halfway through, I couldn't get over the rush I felt when I was singing, and the pride I felt afterwards.
If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?
The top four artists who I would say have influenced my music would be Phoebe Bridgers, Lizzy McAlpine, Hayley Williams, and Harry Styles. Phoebe's and Lizzy's sound always makes me feel entranced, and I am always hooked hearing the soft, calming sounds of their voices. Hayley Williams has been a huge inspiration for as long as I can remember.I grew up listening to Paramore, and always loved her punchy and vulnerable lyricism. As for Harry Styles, I take a lot of inspiration from his general sound in his music. A mix of pop and indie, with personal and unique elements that make it his own.
How does your creative process work from the moment you develop the idea to the completion of the record?
My process tends to differ from project to project. For this single, I was able to write the whole song within about half an hour. Some of my most vulnerable thoughts come to me when I am alone. Many of those thoughts end up turning to lyrics that I write down and use down the road, but when I wrote Afraid To Fall the lyrics and melody just seemed to flow right from my heart. I put together a quick demo for my producer and sent it over! We talked about what the song meant to me, how it fits in with the rest of my upcoming album, and what sections of the song should include certain instruments, sounds, or feelings. My producer and I did a lot of the work remotely for this song, but we were able to meet in person for recording the vocals. We were able to fine tune it together and create something we were both really proud of.
As for this release, who is the producer and what about the production moved you?
The producer of Afraid To Fall is Billy Adams, and I cannot say enough about how great he is. He connected with the song very quickly and made the process so easy and collaborative. Billy was able to pick up on the emotions I wanted people to get out of this song, and integrate such wonderful ideas that made the song transform into what it is now. Not only is he talented, he is a blast to work with! Recording is a long process, but when you are cracking jokes the whole time and you're both passionate about the project, it makes the time fly.
When it comes to the songwriting on this record, what is the message you want to get across to your listeners?
The message I really want people to take from my music is that it is so incredibly okay to be vulnerable. It is okay to feel intensely and to love intensely. Music has always been the perfect outlet for any emotion or experience I have faced. No matter what I am feeling, I can write about it and create melodies that empathize or comfort me. I am so grateful that I have this outlet and that I finally feel comfortable enough to share such personal and vulnerable art.
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