Following on from the release of her highly-praised studio album 'Wash Over Me' and follow-up single 'He Stopped Loving Her Today' last year, Colorado-based singer-songwriter Jillian Lee Antinora returns for 2023 to deliver her dreamy new offering 'Laid Down Your Love'.
Honing more of that riveting blend of folk and country textures she is known for, 'Laid Down Your Love' makes for a beautifully endearing listen. With her warm and vibrant voice layered across a shimmering production from start to finish, she is certainly looking to sweep us off our feet with this one.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her background and what has been inspiring her most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I first fell in love with singing. I didn’t start learning the guitar until I was in my 30’s, and someday I plan on learning the piano…maybe when I am in my 80’s.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I loved classical music, I studied ballet and always loved music in class. I also loved dancing around to whatever pop music was on the radio, Madonna and Michael Jackson, and oldies.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I owned Billy Joel’s greatest hits and loved it. I especially loved New York State of Mind, and later, when I lived in New York when I was 18, I went to a Garth Brooks concert in Central Park and Billy Joel came out and played New York State of Mind! It was so great.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I wish I could have written Come Away With Me by Nora Jones. I love that song, and it feels like something I would write, I wish I had!
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I like to go out when I want inspiration, I like to go listen to music or sit by myself at a restaurant where I can people watch. I always get ideas from watching people and am always inspired when I hear live music.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I have been listening to Tyler Childers a lot lately, he is so fantastic, and Nora Jones.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I have been listening to Nora Jones so much, opening for her sounds pretty dreamy right now!
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part about being a musician is getting to share your stories and thoughts with people, you get to be at a level of vulnerability that you normally wouldn’t show to anyone. It’s also great because, whenever I play live, it’s a party and everyone has a great time!
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part is having to fight to get work. Like all performing work, it takes a lot of perseverance to keep at it and work hard to get paying work.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Enjoy it and keep at it!
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Jillian Lee Antinora's new single 'Laid Down Your Love' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.