Jessie Laine Powell by Dr. Gail Jhonson Collaboration is a time for the meeting of the minds, sharing musical ideas, and an opportunity to understand the creative process of others. Collaborating with Jessie on a recording project was a fun, cool, yet unique experience. She liked my instrumental music, heard a different spin on it, and wrote lyrics to the track! Jaco Pastorius’ composition “Rain” and the collaboration with the R&B vocal group SWV was the only time I can recall that kind of collaboration. Both were excellent versions of the same melody, with different interpretations, heard through different lenses.
south florida
since 2007
JESSIE LAINE POWELL MEMBER
I had the chance to catch up with Jessie. This latest recording project is a milestone for her. I am glad I could be a part of her musical journey, and I look forward to many more to come. What is the collaborative project between you and Dr. Gail Jhonson? “ Fire and Ice” is a song about me and my husband’s relationship, and the single “Live Your Life” is an anthem for every dreamer to pursue their dreams. What was the process? JLP Music Global purchased the licenses to record two songs from Dr. Gail Jhonson. Both compositions had previously been released as instrumentals on her project. My management suggested one song they felt would appeal to me and my audience and would be a perfect addition to my upcoming album. Taking the song and creating a lyrical story to weave in with the melody was fun. Gail gave me the freedom just to make. We both were delighted with the outcome. Both songs will be impactful to the listener. In retrospect, was it a different experience in sharing musical ideas with a woman? No, not really. I do not look at gender when collaborating. The process was easy. This has been my experience. It is always a pleasure to feel that” girl power” and experience hands-on, gifted female musicians. Have you ever collaborated with women in critical positions in your business? No. Are you an entrepreneur? Yes. I am the CEO of JLP Music Global, creating healing music that brings hope, love, and transformative change in the world as a singer/ songwriter. I am also the founder and creator of Dream Manifestor, a Instagram platform created as a beacon for individuals seeking to unlock their dreams. We all have them, or we all should. Not just holding dreams on the inside but manifesting those dreams into reality. I desire to inspire dreamers through my journey by being a template. Every dream matters, and there is a place for them all. Would you recommend women to collaborate more or less? I would always say more collaboration is calibration to elevate our gender. Did the collaboration initiate or enhance a sisterhood? It truly enhanced and grew into a sisterhood and a mutual respect for each other’s gifts, talents, and drive for change. When you as a woman can appreciate and support another woman openly and honestly, we are then
15