Malaysian-born singer-songwriter Chelsea Chan, better known by her moniker JAIE, is currently based in New York. From uploading acoustic covers on SoundCloud as student before venturing into music production using GarageBand, JAIE’s fascination with various sounds is heavily influenced by a diverse range of artists and genres, including 90s R&B, alternative, indie music, and lo-fi sounds.
Since her debut EP in 2017, JAIE has released tracks like “Better Days” and “r u mine” that showcase her ability to blend soulful vocals with contemporary R&B and pop elements, evoking an emotive listening experience for listeners. Hype caught up with JAIE to chat about her songwriting process, unexpected muses, and favourite hobbies when she’s not working.
Can you remember your first concert? Who was it & how did it make you feel?
I think Paramore’s RIOT tour in KL was one of my first real concerts. I remember jumping, screaming and sweating so much, it was almost a mosh pit. Hearing Hayley Williams hit all the notes in “The Only Exception” was a highlight.
How much of your songwriting is based on reality, fantasy or other people’s experience?
It’s always a mix and is different for each song. Most of the time it stems from my own experiences, and then the song expands upon that. From there, the writing can take on a more fictional narrative, or be influenced by other people and their stories I come across.
Do you have a favourite lyric from your own songs?
In my song, Moon Sailing: ‘Chandelier, i’m barely hanging on, gonna swing into the afterlife’. I went with a stream of consciousness approach and love how playful and surreal the lyrics on this track turned out.
Off my new album, there are also a ton of lyrics that I’m really proud of, I really dug deep with it this time after going through a tumultuous past year.
What do you do to calm your nerves before a live performance?
Vibe to some fun music, and have some bants and laughs with friends. If I’m still feeling jittery I’ll do some breathing exercises and stretches.
What influences determine the style or risks you take in your career?
I like getting inspiration from unexpected places. For example, I went into a bookstore and chanced upon this black and white photography book. It inspired me to try a new style and visual direction for my upcoming album artwork. Other times, I get really interesting suggestions on my explore page like clips from artist interviews, visuals and even paintings.
Favourite thing(s) to do on a day off?
Taking my time to slow down and seeing where the day takes me. Drink a good cup of coffee while zoning out and listening to music. Play with my dogs, and maybe take a relaxing bath.
If a friend from abroad were to visit you, what food or attraction would you recommend for them to try?
Enjoy the morning sun and lush forests on a morning hike in one of our many beautiful parks, visit the Zhongshan building, and try some classic Malaysian dishes like nasi lemak, rendang, la la noodles, and definitely introduce them to cham ice kurang manis, you really can’t find that anywhere else.
Best (most helpful) and worst advice you’ve received.
Best: Drink warm liquids regularly and try to avoid AC to keep your voice in good condition.
Worst: That you should dream of working full time in your passion. I believe there shouldn’t be a set path to go after what you are passionate about. You should focus more on the craft and the actual art-making, instead of the idea of being an artist.
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