A Conversation With Justine Blanchet

Q: Hey, can you tell us a bit about where you come from, and what made you want to start a career in music?

A:  Absolutely!! I was born on the South Shore of Montreal and I’ve always been musically-inclined. My mom was self-taught and made sure that me and my three siblings all learned at least one instrument. I began playing piano at 4 years old and can now play saxophone and guitar as well. At 11 years old, I wanted to get more into singing and so I did but I started with opera, which is definitely unusual. I started writing my own songs when I switched to country a few years later at 15.

Q: Did you have any formal training, or are you self-taught?

A: I had a little of both. My parents did what they could to get me some professional training but I’m also a very quick learner. So, I picked up everything fast and I would practice on my own.

Q: Who were your first and strongest musical influences?

A: Shania Twain, Reba, Miranda Lambert, and Carrie Underwood always had a huge influence on me and my songwriting. My mom used to play Shania Twain on CDs when I was a baby.

Q: You have just released your new single ‘Hard to Love’. Is there a story behind it?

A: I didn’t write this single but Kelly Archer, Derrick Southerland, and Courtney Cole did! I was pitched a playlist and this song stood out because I personally went through a situation like the one described in the song.

Q: Can we expect a new EP or even an album from you in the near future?

A: Yes!! I have an EP coming to y’all set for the spring of 2023! “Hard to Love” is an introductory single to that EP.

Q: What do you feel are the key elements in your music that should resonate with listeners, and how would you personally describe your sound?

A: I have been described as a mix of country and pop and listeners love my songwriting for its creative melodies! I also write things that are relatable and very much down to earth.

Q: Do you feel that your music is giving you back just as much fulfillment as the amount of work you are putting into it, or are you expecting something more?

A: The music industry is very tough and there are so many highs and lows. Some days I feel like it’s all for nothing but then something great happens and it feels like I’m doing something right! You really have to keep going.

Q: Could you describe your creative processes? How do usually start, and go about shaping ideas into a completed song?

A: Great songs usually come from a simple idea, maybe a play on words that sound cool. Then, I’ll either bring it to a co-write session or sit down by myself and find a good melody! From there it’s just finding the words and a good storyline to shape the song.

Q: What has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in your life or music career so far?

A: I was once questioned whether I was dedicated enough to my music because I decided to get a degree in communications and marketing. The person who asked me that really had no idea that it’s a huge advantage to know how to run a business and market a product as well I be able to make a great product.

Q: On the contrary, what would you consider a successful, proud or significant point in your life or music career so far?

A:  I’ve had quite a few successful moments but a highlight would be getting last single “Get Out of the Mud” to go #4 on the CBC Sirius XM country charts!

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