Jenna Andrews

Photography by Emma Sophia Valles

Words by Sara Salamat

Photography by Emma Sophia Valles

Calgarian Jenna Andrews boasts a prominent singer/songwriter career, however, currently, her talents lie in the representation and mentoring of the future wave of artists. As an executive consultant at RECORDS, she has collaborated with acts like Drake, Dua Lipa, Tori Kelly, and Lennon Stella. Luckily, Sara got a few minutes to talk with Andrews about her career as an artist, songwriting, and working with large acts.

Given the entertainment industry is a male-dominated industry, how do you feel being where you are alongside your accomplishments?

Every day is an uphill battle, and as a woman in this business, it’s an even harder road to travel on a daily basis. One thing I always keep in mind is that nothing worth getting or achieving comes without a fight, the “easy route” is never an option. With that said, I feel extremely lucky to be where I am and to have accomplished so much. Every win, big or small, is a win to me!

You said that you were an artist as well, with releases like EP Kiss and Run. How do you think that shapes your songwriting?

I’ve actually spent most of my career as an artist, I started off as one and am proud to say that I am still involved in the creative process to this day. Having artistic roots provides me with a lot of insight into how an artist thinks. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and have used such experiences to help artists who are going through the same things in their careers. I absolutely love working with young up and coming artists, especially female creatives. I feel like I can help them navigate through the business by providing the lessons that I’ve learned throughout my journey in the industry.

What would 10-year-old Jenna say if she found out current Jenna wrote for Miss Jennifer Lopez?

I often ask myself that! It’s hard to know exactly how that would feel as most 10-yearolds would probably never believe that something like that could ever happen. However, 10-year-old me would definitely freak out! It’s funny, this business has a way of changing your perspective when working with people of such a high caliber and respect. It’s kinda like finding out Santa Claus doesn’t exist for the first time!

Jennifer is the epitome of humility and craftsmanship—seeing her work makes accomplishing your dreams look more realistic. Individuals like J Lo show you how much work it really takes to “make it”.

You mentioned that you have a therapeutic relationship with the artists you write with because of your father's psychology background. What are your thoughts about the importance of music on mental health?

Yes, I absolutely do! Every songwriter will agree that songwriting is like therapy as it gives you the opportunity to explore your emotions. However, it is sometimes hard to tell your deepest darkest secrets to a stranger. That being said, it usually ends up feeling somewhat relieving to face that test with other songwriters because the challenge in itself helps growth.

What is your songwriting process? Do you have a set formula for songwriting?

Music and melody usually evoke an emotion in me and guide the lyrics based on feeling. Even if I come in wanting to write about something, or have something on my mind, I usually like to let the subconscious feelings lead.

If I’m writing for someone else (and it’s someone I know) I tend to let their feelings lead the way. Once we get something established, I’ll feed off of that energy and contribute with my own input. If it’s someone I don’t know, I like to get to know them first before delving into that process. Honestly, I find it more worthwhile to hang out with someone before writing. That way you can delve into every nook and cranny of their personality and help them to express it.

Any upcoming projects that you're excited about?

Absolutely! I’ve been working with a bunch of amazing and talented young woman. Here are some of the projects/artists that I’m really looking forward to:

Lennon Stella

Noah Cyrus

Lauren Jauregui

Benee

Anna Clendening

Galxara

Little Mix

Do you prefer to have a mass team of songwriters on a song, or just a few?

It really depends on what is going to make a song the best it can be! If a certain song requires more writers, we’ll make it happen but ultimately, there is no perfect formula to it.

What do you think makes a "hit" song?

Again, there isn’t an exact method. I would say that hit songs tend to have a unique quality and a certain amount of familiarity. Additionally, it really depends on the artist that performs the song. For example, you can have a demo that sounds like a hit but have the wrong artist performing it. An issue like that can ruin your chances, that’s why you always need to ensure that you have the right artist execute the right song.

From Drake to Dua Lipa, do you feel any pressure writing for big artists?

There is always a certain amount of pressure to deliver but I’m aware that it’s impossible to control every situation (even for a control freak like me). My ultimate motto is that I try and let the universe lead.

Photography by Emma Sophia Valles

Photography by Emma Sophia Valles