Dispatch from Around the Globe – Summer Quarantine Edition with Philly’s Own American Pop Artist Jodi Valentin
Jodi Valentin is an American Pop artist, often found singing heartfelt, story-based ballads behind a piano. Although she was born in Brooklyn, New York, she identifies herself as a multi-cultured woman who has traveled the world. While music is her first passion, she’s found joy in learning languages beyond English, and listens to music of other cultures like Pink Martini and Emilie-Claire Barlow. While her most obvious influence is Taylor Swift, her current artists in rotation are Lauv, FLETCHER, and old-time classics like Stevie Wonder, Queen, and Elton John.
She’s been fortunate enough to work under the thumb of Roger Waters of Pink Floyd and Nigel Godrich during an Internship program at Soundtrack Studios. Her mentors Nick Sansano and Bob Power encouraged her to reach out to big time producers like David Kahne, which she did, and he ended up co-producing her single “The Radio.” Fortunately, she also sat beside Maggie Rogers at NYU Clive Davis, where they’d critique each others songwriting.
Jodi will be performing her first international concert on September 10th through the Sofa Sessions. She has recently appeared on playlists such as “Sunday’s Best,” “Musician’s of Instagram,” “Boutique Bops” and “Indie Music Women.”
1. What’s a favorite song of yours that reminds you of summertime? “I Like Me Better.” Lauv never ceases to keep my interest. The hook is simple, yet relatable: “I like me better when I’m with you.”
We are always on the lookout for new TV shows and films to check out. What’s one of your favorite shows and/or movies that you’ve watched over the past few months? I know I’m late, but I just started watching The Office. I laugh at every episode. Dwight is so quirky… I especially love the episode where they show all of his Halloween costumes. The Shape of Water and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape are fantastic, artistic films. Their execution of cinematography and storyline are captivating and meaningful.
Your vacation plans probably got thwarted due to the global pandemic. Where had you hoped to travel to this summer? Where are you planning on doing some fun summer activities instead this year? My trip to Nashville got derailed because of the pandemic, but I’m certain I’ll make it there soon enough! Nashville seems to be quite the scene for musicians nowadays, so I was hoping to collaborate with some writers including Dave Kuncio and Emma Brooke. Meanwhile, summer has been really productive for me. My retired racing greyhound, Holiday, was named after the jazz singer Billie Holiday; we’ve been walking about 8 miles a day. It makes us both very happy. Also, the Jersey Shore is so close to Philadelphia, so I’ve been taking day trips over to LBI and Brigantine.
Can you recommend a local Black-Owned business that we should check out? Will Toms is a co-founder at REC Philly, a collaborative space for creatives in the Fashion District.
What’s your favorite shore town? Ah, tough question. I just started visiting Ships Bottom in LBI and find it very peaceful. They have some local fashion boutiques that are cute.
Lots of people have been releasing music over quarantine. What’s a favorite release of yours that has come out since March? Definitely “Tootsie Slide” by Drake. The music video for it was very clean cut and I love that the dance associated with the song is very easy to do. I spent many nights dancing to it in my living room. No shame here 🙂
What’s your favorite summertime tradition? Summer is a time I’ve always used for self-reflection and growth. While it may seem like an odd tradition, I’ve used summers as a chance to reconnect with myself and slow down… to “stop and smell the roses.” I think it’s really important to check in with yourself and purposefully shrive to be better.
What’s your favorite summertime treat? Ice cream, Ice cream, Ice cream… Did I say ice cream?
You’ve probably sharpened your cooking skills since quarantine began. What’s your favorite thing to make for a meal these days? Cooking has actually always been a hobby of mine, but I’ve made some tasty meals this quarantine for sure. My favorite has been a cilantro-lime vegetable dish served with chipotle seasoned chicken and wild rice. I’ve been making guac too! You really can’t go wrong with Mexican food.
Best summer concert you’ve ever seen? What’s your favorite venue to go to for a summertime show? A few years back, I was able to see John Mayer perform in London. It was so beautiful because it was an outdoors concert in a huge park. Added plus that the people around all had British accents. My favorite venue is BB&T, just across the river! I saw the Smashing Pumpkins perform there the summer of 2019 with an artist friend of mine, Mark Bullet.
Favorite Philly bands right now? Kirby Sybert
12. Favorite non-Philly bands right now?
The Lumineers The Bird and the Bee
Favorite Summer Blockbuster(s)? Did you see this in the theater? When Harry Met Sally, Empire Records, Drop Dead Fred, Catch & Release, Blow
Current summer reading? All time favorite summer read? I’ve been reading a book called Girl, Wash Your Face. It’s a motivational confidence booster for women. If you’re not huge onto reading, there is a podcast that reads the chapters 1 by 1.
What’s your favorite summertime jawn? My favorite summertime jawn in Philly would either be playing pool at Kostas in Fishtown or relaxing at Morgan’s Pier for their outdoor dining experience. You’re basically right below the Ben Franklin bridge on the water, which is really peaceful. Sunset drinks are a must.
Find Jodi Valentin Online
Facebook Instagram Spotify
Leave a Comment