Jessica Lynn talks supporting young artists, facing vocal issues and blending musical styles for her album, ‘All I Own’. 

‘All I Own’ is a deeply personal album, shaped by your experiences with vocal challenges and health battles. How did these struggles influence the music and themes of the album?  

2024 was a very difficult year for me personally. The majority of writing for this record, I had to do “silently.” After having major sinus surgery in January, I had begun writing tracks for the record during all of February however I couldn’t sing. I would quietly talk the lyrics and melodies into my phone and play my guitar so I never even actually got to sing the songs until we were in the studio. The plan was – once I was “healed” in March, we would have almost 3 full months to do all the recording and finish the record before we left on tour from end of May until Christmas. The real difficulty came when I started to record unfortunately. It was an incredibly scary moment in my life when I realised I wasn’t able to hit certain notes, and I was feeling a lot of pain in my throat when I was trying to sing which would be followed by extreme hoarseness and losing my voice. We are still unsure of the exact cause; it could have been longtime steroid use from pre and post-surgery or just my throat muscles becoming a bit atrophied after surgery, but I was unfortunately diagnosed with Muscle Tension Dysphonia. From March until the tour in late May, it was a race to the finish to find a way to complete this record, through intense vocal and physical therapies and find my voice again. It was one of the most difficult times in my life and something I kept extremely private and quiet. Finishing and releasing this record is a true triumph in my life and it means a lot to me because of how long and difficult the road was to get there. 

Once in the studio, it was the first time actually being able to try to sing these new songs we were recording so it was a lot of stress. Not only could I not use my voice for long periods of time, but now I had to use those short bursts of time to not just physically be able to sing, but also creatively figure out how the song was going to sound vocally. My struggles greatly impacted the theme of determination within the record and the way the music was presented. There is more passion and heart than ever within those recordings.  

 Can you share a bit more about the song ‘Something ‘Bout You’ and what makes it special to you, both as a writer and a performer?  

This song was written about the period of time that I was falling in love with my now husband. That time was so full of magic and adventure, and I really wanted to embody that in the music. There’s also a double meaning within the lyrics as it is also a love song to touring, making music, and being on this adventure with everyone who’s been there and supported me.  

 You’ve mentioned in the past that you didn’t want to admit your vocal issues were real for fear of losing opportunities. How did you manage that internal battle while continuing to perform and record music?  

I had to just believe and keep faith that I would be okay. It was extremely difficult, but I told myself every day that there was light at the end of the tunnel and that I would persevere… and I did.  

 Your album features a range of musical styles, from boot-stomping country classics to rock-infused tracks and South American rhythms. What inspired you to blend these genres and experiment with your sound?  

I have always loved so many different genres of music. My biggest inspirations range from Selena, to Richard Marx, to Shania Twain, Neil Diamond, The Beach Boys, The Temptations, and beyond. It was never a conscious choice to include all of the genres – it’s just how my music comes out because of everything I love to listen to.  

 Touring internationally has been a big part of your career. How does performing for audiences in different parts of the world shape your connection to your music and your audience? 

We perform so many places where people don’t even speak English, and the way music connects us all is so touching. It has truly shown me the power music has and that it is undoubtedly a universal language.  

 As an advocate for young musicians, your work with the American Voices program and your course ‘Tips & Tricks for The Independent Musician’ has made a big impact. Can you share a memorable experience from your time teaching or mentoring young musicians?  

There are so many I could be here all day telling you about them! Being a part of that program has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. There is such incredible talent out there and it’s very sad how little opportunity there can be for people. Overall – watching my students grow into professionally touring musicians and witnessing them make a living doing what they love to do because of the lessons I taught them, is a feeling I can’t quite put into words!  

 You’ve had the chance to share the stage with artists like Brad Paisley and Keith Urban. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from performing alongside such established names in country music? 

I have learned a lot about what to do, and also a lot about what NOT to do from touring and performing with acts I’ve looked up to my whole life. It really can be an eye-opening experience. There is always something to learn and I think the most valuable lesson I have gained is to always be humble and kind to everyone. Loretta Lynn showed me this. Despite her being one of the brightest, biggest stars, she welcomed my family and I into her dressing room to spend time together as if we had known each other for years. Such a beautiful human being.  

 Your passion for giving back is clear, especially through initiatives like your annual ‘A Very Merry Classic Christmas’ tour. How do you choose the causes and charities you support, and what do they mean to you?  

I choose charities and organisations to support that personally mean a lot to me. Causes that are near and dear to my heart. I have the utmost respect for veterans, and I love working with children and animals, which is very evident in all I do.  

 With your diverse musical talents — playing piano, guitar, harmonica, and drums — how do you decide which instruments to feature in your songs, and how do they complement your vocal performances?  

I always choose my instrumentation by a gut feeling and by the mood of the song. When that writing lightbulb turns on in my head – it always instinctually guides me to what instrument I should have in my hand.  

Looking ahead to the rest of 2025 and beyond, what’s next for you as an artist? Are there new directions you’re excited to explore or experiences you’re looking forward to sharing through your music?  

I’m very excited to ride the wave of “All I Own” which you can now listen to or purchase at all digital retailers!  You can also receive a signed physical copy for a limited time through my website.