Some of you might remember that before there was ‘American Idol’, there was ‘Popstars’, the vocal search that brought some of the best talent to the spotlight like Sugar Jones and Velvet Empire. Calgary native Jocelyn Alice sang her way to the top of this Canadian hit series and finished runner up when she was a mere 17 years old. Now, with weekly shows and an album on the way, check out what motivates her writing in today’s YPDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
My “business” is honesty and relationships. I am a singer/songwriter/entertainer, but really, I’m just someone with a message that hopes to help through the communication of my own experience.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
The writing is what really pulled me in. It’s endlessly fascinating to me to take responsibility for the things I’m saying and how I’m saying them. The marketing and promotional side of music is beginning to be just as intriguing to me lately as well. To have a vision, build a community to help you grow it, and watch it come to life is always rebooting my creative juices.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is getting on stage and leaving all of myself behind. All of the work I do behind the scenes is for those 2 hours I get to spend with my audience. The most challenging part is getting out of my head and into my heart. No one will ever be as hard on me as I am.
Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
I can’t look ahead 5 minutes, let alone 5 years! I will always be a writer. It’s not a choice, it’s just who I am. I hope to continue to build a following of heartfelt listeners that will allow me to believe in what I’m doing and why I’m doing it. It would be lovely to see the venues I play in grow and grow. No matter the size, the stage will always find me.
What does success look like to you?
Success is giving in. Giving in to the moment, the growth, the relationships in your life and all of the beauty that right now offers you.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Every time someone tells me that a song I’ve written has allowed them some perspective or comfort is all I could ever hope for. Hearing your songs in TV shows and movies is just plain cool (and weird!), but the connection is what I’m really after.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Persist. Persist. Persist. Every time someone tells you can’t, you’re probably on the right track. Just. Keep. Going!
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I put on a show called “Art Saving Lives” that raises money for UEnd:Poverty. Giving back is what’s its all about. I heal by helping and hopefully, I help by healing.
What is Notable to you?
Inspiring inspiration is the biggest blessing I’ve been granted.
Photo by Doug Springer – heavylight.ca