Her sound is as fresh and as big as the waves crashing on her Outer Banks doorstep. (Read the full Suite review of "Designed to Dream" here). Talking to her only revealed that her heart is just as enormous.
Suite: Jessica, I know from your music (“Beautiful”) and your website that you have a heart for young girls. What is the message you’d most like to share with them, and what kind of opportunities have you had to impact this audience?
Jessica: You are right. God has really given me a heart for young girls, one reason being that I was one of them. I know the struggles and want to encourage them to give God their whole heart because He is the only one that can truly guide them through this confusing world.
I have had many amazing opportunities to impact this new generation of girls. The Song “Beautiful” has produced a great response. I get emails and messages online from girls who listen to the song EVERY day. It is the first thing they listen to before they begin their day. Another great story has to do with a girls’ home in Virginia. All of the girls that are involved in the program printed out the lyrics and taped them to their mirrors to remind them daily of their inner beauty. That is such a blessing to me!!!!
Suite: I love the old-school groove of “Ocean Song” and “All I Need.” What music has influenced you most?
Jessica: I am influenced by a TON of genres and artists. The list would be too long to name. I grew up listening to female vocalists including Indigo Girls, Fleetwood Mac, Edie Brickell, Alanis Morisette, and Jewel. Their vocal expression made quite an impact on me. I am drawn to artists who have developed a unique style and sing from their heart.
Suite: What is the best spiritual advice you’ve ever been given about music and ministry? How hard is it for you to follow?
Jessica: The best advice I have ever been given is to never stop worshipping God through my music. Close my eyes, open my heart, and sing straight to Him. That is where the spirit can move. It is not too hard to follow because that is what music is to me, worship. It evokes an emotional softening of the heart.
Suite: You can’t make it through the day without….. what?
Jessica: Reading my Bible and spending time with my husband.
Suite: Do you have any special New Year traditions you’d like to share?
Jessica: I grew up in a very close family. My grandmother is an amazing cook so she would always make the same traditional meal every New Years. Black eyes peas for good luck, collard greens for financial prosperity, pork roast, ham, homemade mashed potatoes and gravy, and the list goes on and on. We had to at least try everything! Since I have been married, traditions have changed from year to year but every year is special!
Check out "Designed to Dream" to hear more of the fantastic heart and sound of Jessica McLean.
