INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW ✦

Having recently celebrated a remarkable milestone of 15 million streams, singer-songwriter Cassa Jackson is quickly proving to be a rising artist who continues to shine with each new release. And her latest single, “Reset Me” not only marks a significant moment in her career but also showcases the impressive bandwidth of her blossoming artistry.

Jackson’s “Reset Me” is conceptually crafted as a poignant piano ballad that captivates listeners with its endearing storytelling and soul-infused vocals, where the singer’s voice elegantly resonates with the warmth and positivity that accompanies a transformative relationship. Now, with the release of her new track, a TikTok songwriting nomination from IHeartRadio, upcoming performances to prepare for, and plenty of passion to fuel her music for years to come, we’re having her break it all down.

Congratulations on reaching a massive career milestone of 15 million streams so far! Has there been a moment that’s felt almost too good to be true?

Cassa Jackson: Thank you! There’s been quite a few moments, to be honest, it’s hard to choose. My Headline Shows have got to be right up there, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a room full of people who have all come to see you perform, singing your songs back to you word for word! But I also shouldn’t forget when I performed at the O2 Arena in London for the first time, definitely a pinch-me moment and I still can’t believe I have done that!

“Reset Me” is described as an intimate piano ballad about being open to the joys of a newly established love. How did the track initially come together?

Cassa Jackson: I wrote it in a studio in France on a writing trip, the weather was glorious and I remember I was talking with my producer about my new relationship and saying that I felt ‘reset’ and we both instantly thought, that’s what we need to write about. We wrote it just on the piano and experimented with production but decided that’s how it should stay as it’s such a raw, intimate song and the vocals and lyrics tell enough of the story on their own.

Your song “Parallel Universe” resonated deeply with your fans – expressing longing for a connection where you’re put first. How does the sense of fulfillment in “Reset Me” compare to that era of your work?

Cassa Jackson: It is a real full-circle moment for me because I really feel that I have found my “Parallel Universe’” which I was looking for in that song. “Reset Me” documents the process I went through in my relationship and listening to it makes me feel so warm inside. It’s a celebration of finding that someone who treats you how you deserve to be treated and appreciating what that relationship has added to your life. In comparison to what I wrote about in my biggest song “Suits U”, “Reset Me” outlines that in this new relationship, I always feel wanted and valued, not just as and when it suits him!

Being nominated for the iHeartRadio award for TikTok Songwriter of the Year is a remarkable achievement. How has this recognition influenced your approach to songwriting or impacted your career trajectory?

Cassa Jackson: I think the reason I was nominated for that award in the first place was because my songs were relatable and authentic to me, so people resonated with them on a more personal level. All my songs are written from my personal experience, perhaps being too honest, but I always believe strength comes from vulnerability so my approach hasn’t really changed and I am still as honest as ever, if not more. I always hope that listening to my music helps people get over past relationships and whether those songs reach 100 people or 15 million, the objective is still the same!

With upcoming appearances at the Silverstone Festival and the Mr Gay World finale in the UK, how do you prepare for these large-scale events and performances?

Cassa Jackson: I, first of all, work out the setlist and decide which of my songs I want to sing. So, for a show like the Mr Gay World finale, I want to pick my more highly produced upbeat bangers that will get the crowd going. Next, I will get in and rehearse over and over again with my band to make sure I am giving the best show I can. Oh, and don’t forget, meeting with my stylist Chloe (@flofashionstyling) to decide on what I should wear for the show! For the big shows, a large part of it is visual, including performance and energy and so I need to look like a star and feel my best so that it’s a real spectacle for the audience. On the day of the show, I will most likely be accompanied by my hair stylist-turned best friend Rowan @rowanirelandcreative who will make me feel good inside and out. It’s all about the people around you and I’m lucky to have found a wonderful team to make the whole process all the more enjoyable.

You've also been working on new music for the next phase of your career. Can you offer any insights into the themes or musical direction we can expect from your upcoming releases?

Cassa Jackson: I have! I have so much new music on the way and I’m really excited to show my fans what I’ve been working on. So “Reset Me” is a representation of where I’m currently at in my personal life, happy and fulfilled in my relationship, but it has certainly been a JOURNEY getting there and obviously, I documented that process through my songwriting. So, my releases this year are going to be a journey through my healing process, to the point where I’m at today. The upcoming tracks are more stripped back than songs I have been previously releasing, which I think will allow my fans to connect to the lyrics and the subject matter more and come along that healing journey with me.

In closing, with aspirations to kick off your own shows in the near future, how do you envision connecting with your audience in those live settings?

Cassa Jackson: I am actually in the process of planning my own Headline Tour of the UK and I want the first shows I do on a headline tour to be in intimate settings where I can really connect with the fans on a personal level. I also think I want them to be acoustic/stripped-back shows with just a guitar and my voice, which complement the nature of the songs I am releasing and allow me to properly showcase my voice. In terms of connecting with my audience, I want to be able to see them up close and personal and it can sort of be like a group therapy session!

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