#MusicMonday: JONES

Although her debut album isn’t due out until next year, JONES’ new single “Hoops” already has us yearning for more. The London-based artist’s newest track is co-produced by rising talents XO and Josh Record, and described by her team as “gutsy, introspective, innovative track about heartbreak and is real in a way few other songs even try to be.”

JONES first started writing music by turning her most private diary entries into songs at an early age. Inspired by her “soul-loving” mother’s love for artists like Stevie Wonder, she has gradually taken the path towards becoming a successful singer-songwriter, selling out her debut London show in days. We asked JONES to answer a few questions for us about her background, inspiration and of course, her future in music.

Labeling Men: I am loving "Hoops"! What was the inspiration behind that song?

JONES: Thank you! Well sonically the inspiration came from a mixture of Lykke Li (I love the rawness of her voice) and The xx (I love their use of heavy reverb on their emotive guitar riffs). The song is about a form of unrequited love, and looking back to a time when things worked. As much as it sounds like it's a relationship song, it could also be about a failed friendship when one is giving more than the other.

Labeling Men: How old are you?

JONES: I'm 25.

Labeling Men: What is your full name?

JONES: Cherie Jones. My mother named me after one of her favourite Stevie songs, “My Cherie Amour.”

Labeling Men: I read that you live in East London. I love that area. Did you grow up there? What is your favorite thing about it?

JONES: Yes, I do live in East London, and I was indeed raised there – I'm now living in a slightly different part. I think it's a great area; it has definitely undergone a metamorphosis. I love the fact that it has such a relaxed nature about it and 'anything goes.' There are many different sub-cultures co-existing.

Labeling Men: When did you start making music?

JONES: I wrote my first song at 15 and have had the bug for it ever since.

Labeling Men: What is your favorite song in the world?

JONES: Impossible to answer. It depends on the day. Today somewhere between Bob Marley's “Waiting In Vain” and Tame Impala's “Mind Mischief.”

Labeling Men: Dream collaboration?

JONES: Tame Impala!

Labeling Men: Describe your perfect day.

JONES: Having a late Sunday roast with a group of good friends.

Labeling Men: What most inspires you?

JONES: Life! Friends, love, experiences, life lessons...

Labeling Men: What was the first concert you attended?

JONES: N.E.R.D at Brixton Academy, London.