Bridge The Atlantic

This week we’re joined by Alabama based singer/songwriter Jessica Meuse. In 2013/14 Jessica competed on American Idol, finishing in 4th place and was the first person in the history of the show to perform an original song, “Blue-Eyed Lie,” during the finals. She went on to tour with the Idols LIVE Tour in summer 2014, visiting 40 different cities in the United States and Canada. Post Idol, Jessica released her first independent single, “Done”, and in January 2016 she released her second independent single, “Rio Grande,” with plans to release an EP soon. We hear all about Jessica’s experiences of the music industry, the misconceptions that surround a show like American Idol and the advice she’d offer to her fellow musicians. Highlights: - Jessica tells us about the relationship she has with her fans (aka the self-named Meuse Mafia) - “If your fans think you’re a douchebag, they aren’t going to support you” - Jessica Meuse, 2016 - We hear how Jessica wants to set a good example to her fans, especially the younger ones - Ross talks about how he feels Jessica appreciates her fans as much as they appreciate her - We hear how the relationships and friendships Jessica has made through music is one of the driving forces behind creating - Jessica tells us how participating in American Idol has changed her career - American Idol gave Jessica a level of exposure that would be very difficult to achieve - Jessica tells us how American Idol helped her learn how to deal with criticism - We discuss the pros and cons of taking part in a show like American Idol - We talk about the importance of taking time off from social media and working constantly - “You set your own limits on yourself” - Jessica Meuse, 2016 - Jessica tells us how she has learned to give herself credit for how hard she works - We talk about the dangers of overworking and burnout - it’s important to take time out for the sake of creativity Advice: - Remember why you make music in the first place - If you’re in it just for the money, you’re in it for the wrong reasons - Don’t let someone else tell you what is possible or isn’t possible - Right now, social media is the best way to build relationships with your fans - Get out of your comfort zone Guest Links: - Website: http://jessicameuse.com - Twitter: @jessmeuse - Facebook: /idoljessicameuse - Instagram: @jessmeuse Sponsors: - Chris Keaton @ Chris Keaton Presents (http://chriskeaton.com) - The Rock/Star Advocate (http://therockstaradvocate.com) - Buck Naked Soap Company (http://bucknakedsoapcompany.com) - Christine Infanger @ Thirty Roses (http://thirtyroses.com)