We had the good fortune of connecting with Tessa Joy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tessa, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I truly believe that life is all about taking risks. Whether I succeed or fail, I want to be able to say I gave it my best shot no matter what it is. In the music industry, you can’t be afraid to take risks. I never know what kind of sounds or melodies I’m going to end up liking until I try it. I have to take a chance and release music not knowing if people are going to love it or hate it; I think that makes my job so much more fun! As long as I know that I am growing and learning from everything, all the risks are worth it in the end. 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a singer-songwriter, musician, performer, and up-and-coming producer, I am most proud of my ability to express myself through music, and connect with others. Having people listen to one of my songs and being able to relate with it however they can, means I am doing my job right! I wouldn’t say anything is ever easy, but fortunately for me, nothing has been extremely rough. Just like any career, there have been times where I’ve struggled or been challenged, and times when I was flourishing. The most important thing for me to remember is that nothing worthwhile is ever easy. Challenges only help me grow and learn. I’ve learned so much already, but the main thing I try to remember is why I make music. Music is my passion and I want to always be connected with that and not let numbers, followers, or other opinions deter me. I want people to hear my music, see my heart, and feel connected. I hope whenever you listen that you can take quick, but enjoyable, journey to wherever the music takes you!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Growing up in the Atlanta area has been nothing short of a good time! Whether I’m heading out to go see a concert at State Farm Arena or Eddie’s Attic, catch a soccer match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, or just headed to work at the Songs For Kids Center downtown, there is so much for me to do. I am always down for some good food and entertainment, so a nice dinner at Mary Mac’s and then catching a show at the Fox Theatre would be a perfect way to capture some of my favorite things. Going out and about the city is always fun, but especially during these unprecedented times I’m glad that my absolute favorite place to be is my home studio! I am so lucky that music can be made anywhere, and while I miss the camaraderie of working in different studios or seeing live shows, I can still go to the best place I know and do what I love!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am incredibly lucky to have a great group of people in my corner. Firstly, I have to thank God for blessing me with such an amazing life that is full of the most wonderful people. Next, my parents! They are truly the most loving, understanding, and supportive people around. Knowing they believe in me no matter what I do definitely keeps me going! Along the way, I have had to opportunity to learn and grow under some seriously talented and incredible minds such as Jan Smith, Jesse Owen Astin, Peter Vogl, and longtime friend and guitar teacher Marcus Elzey. Lastly, the rest of my family and friends. Thank you all for continuing to rock with me and believing in me. I hope to make you all proud!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tessajoyy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tessajoyy
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/tessajoymusic
Other: Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/tessa-joy/438237620 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3WSZEZTfIFRO6TfPIHJ5aJ?si=WkCMg1akQxOWIy6ekOvX-A

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