Songwriter, singer, and guitarist from Oakland, CA, Jennah Bell brings us an alternative sound with a mix of Folk, Soul, R&B, Hip‐Hop, and Bluegrass. Jennah mastered a number of instruments, from the piano, flute, and drums, but took on the guitar as her go to. Currently living in New York, Jennah is pursuing her musical career while advancing her eclectic style. We sat down with her to talk about how she got started and the premiere of her latest music video John Forbid.
When did you start making music and why?
( Jennah ) — It started as an individual passion for reading, writing, and music when I was 7. That developed into writing poetry, which eventually transitioned into writing songs. My full understanding of “why” was more of something I discovered over time. In hindsight, I believe I was trying to convey my emotional understanding of the world.
Tell us your concept for John Forbid.
( J ) — After being inspired by a video I watched of this very lyrical dancer, I thought about the potential imagery of the video and overall storyline of the song. John Forbid tells the story of a kind of slow dance to which that young star crossed lovers move. Often, to an inevitable truth: they can never have the love they dream of. I wanted the narrative to come through the marriage of choreography and music, and for my role in the visual to only to be in aide of the story. So as I sit in an empty white room and reminisce about the events that came to pass, you are able to see them play out in my mind’s eye.
Why did you decide to work with director Holly Wilder for this video?
( J ) — I was initially introduced to Holly by a friend of mine. She was interested in using another song I wrote for a dance film she was producing for her company, The Wilder Project. I fell in love with her choreography and direction, and was impressed with her brother Duncan’s camerawork and editing. Eventually, I asked her if they would be interested in bringing to life this idea I had and the rest unfolded very naturally from there.
What challenges did you face during the making of this music video?
( J ) — Prior to this, I had no experience with the production aspects of making a music video. There are so many moving parts to execute a successful shoot and I had to learn many of them as they were unfolding. For instance, I was in the the video but simultaneously responsible for all the people on set. We only had 8 hours to shoot (which seemed like enough time) solely using natural light, and I had a soundcheck I had to get to by 5pm in Manhattan. Luckily, I had some truly patient and amazing people to help me out.
What was your favorite part of making of the video?
( J ) — Having the opportunity to work with incredible artists in different mediums. Their professionalism and dedication to their craft and making my vision come to life was truly inspiring.
When can we expect your next project?
( J ) — I am in the mixing and mastering stages of finishing my album so I am hoping Spring/Summer 2017.
Follow Jennah Bell ( jennahbell )
Photography by Chérmelle D. Edwards ( thecoffeephotographer ) & Krista Chiu