In celebration of the launch of her latest single First Love, we caught up with the one and only Justine Blanchet. We talk about the inception of the song, the power of collaboration, how things have changed for the artist over time, and plenty more. Here’s how it went.
* * *
Hi Justine, great to finally chat with you – thanks for the interview! Massive congratulations for the release of First Love. For those who don’t know, what was the creative process like for this single?
This single was pitched to me a while back and has been recorded for some time now. I loved the emotion and message behind the song. I knew this song needed the right instruments and visual to portray its message. The live performance video is a piece of that.
How did you come to connect with the songwriters and producer Danick for this release, and how important is collaboration for you as an artist?
Danick and I had previously worked on other songs and First Love was part of that batch of songs. Collaboration is so important to me as an artist because other artists can teach you new things and show you different ways of working. Amazing music comes from collaboration.
In what ways has your mindset or approach evolved since the release of your debut EP Don’t Ask Me to Dance?
For the last few years, I have been recording music from other songwriters and my mindset has evolved in the sense that I’d love to have an input in the write of the song. My upcoming releases will be songs that I either wrote or co-wrote.
The live performance video for First Love is stunning – how much does that live and organic side of performance mean to you as an artist, and is there a dream venue or event you’d like to appear at?
I had so much fun bringing this live performance video to life. I wanted to bring in a different angle to the song, so we recorded that audio on set. I’d love to play at the Grand Ole Opry some day.
You said of this song’s appeal: “It’s really about the longing, sadness, and doubt that can arise from loving your significant other but knowing you aren’t their first love.” In your experience, how do we overcome these feelings of insecurity?
I think it’s a reality that we must accept to a certain level but it’s also important to express those feelings to your significant other. Communication requires vulnerability and that can be hard.
What’s your plan of action for the rest of this year, and what’s the best way fans can support you?
I am currently working on some more music and I’m so excited to show these new songs to the world. You can follow me on Spotify or wherever you listen to your music. You can also find me on social media @justineblanchetmusic.
Is there anything else we should know?
I think that really covers it all! The reception of this song has been amazing so far and I’m very grateful to each and every listener. Thank you so much.
* * *
Find Justine Blanchet on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok.
