If you've been wondering whose beats have been providing the powerful soundtrack to our latest TV ad, Join the Queendom, then no look no further. JessB (real name: Jess Bourke) is a pro-netballer-turned-rapper, who originally hails from Auckland, and was discovered on Soundcloud before releasing her debut EP, Bloom, earlier this year. Her track, Day Ones, supplies the killer score to our ad, and we recently caught up with her to find out more. 

Day Ones is an amazing song. What inspired the track?

The main inspiration was the sisters that I have connected with, both throughout high school and since leaving. I have been very lucky to be surrounded by friends who have supported my journey in all ways - including pursuing a music career. This song is an ode to them, and the times we have shared together along the way.

What drew you to the music scene?

My personal love for music and the ways in which it has helped me to find a sense of pride in who I am.

Australia and NZ have some pretty powerful female voices, who show strength on and off the stage, why do you think that is?

I think that it is a great time for women to stand up and speak their truths when and where they can. We are able to build online platforms where we can express our minds freely, as an extension of what we write, create and perform. In my opinion, I think that women supporting other women in doing this has also been a big part of the strength we see.

What do you think your unique voice brings to the ANZ scene?

I think that my voice brings a new perspective, and new energy that we havent heard a lot of in the New Zealand hip-hop scene yet.

What drives your song-writing?

The experiences I have, the people that I have met, and the things I am passionate about.

What’s your favourite part about making music that empowers?

Being able to connect with people who have taken meaning or inspiration from the words I have written is pretty special. It reinforces what I am doing, and the vision I have.

Okay, five females influences - go!

Missy Elliott, Lil' Kim, Rihanna, Serena Williams, my mum.

You’ve just released an incredible EP. What’s next?

I want to continue to make music that people can connect with. I want to continue to find my feet in this journey I am on and stay true to who I am. 

CHECK OUT MORE OF JESSB VIA HER INSTAGRAM OR VIA SPOTIFY.