LU: When did you start singing? How did you get started?
SJ: I’ve been singing since I could talk but I started to record about a year [ago] now. I started out modeling in Jamaica. Conroy Forte from Washroom Entertainment—he’s the producer of “Tight Skirt”—we recorded a song and he ended up loving it. So he brought it to Gary Bernstein and now I’m international [laughs].
LU: Are you surprised at the fanbase you have already?
SJ: It’s grown so fast it’s crazy. I’m actually on tour with Andrea Russett, who is a Youtube celebrity so her fans and my fans meet up in the same place and we have a big meet and greet.
LU: The concept for your “Tight Skirt” video was based off Britney Spears?
SJ: Well, maybe the classroom in the beginning.
LU: …And the outfits.
SJ: Yeah, and the outfits—it has that feel. The video was shot in downtown Kingston, which is really different, and there’s a lot of dancehall choreography in it.
LU: Are you a fan of Britney’s?
SJ: I love Britney. I listen to all of her songs.
LU: Would you say that she is an influence?
SJ: I would say so. She and Rihanna.
LU: So, you are from Ocho Rios…
SJ: Yeah, it’s one of [Jamaica’s] main tourist attractions. It’s really small compared to anywhere up here but it’s home.
LU: There’s tourist Ochi, but how would you describe your Ochi, the real Ochi?
SJ: Well I don’t deal with the tourist stuff all the time. There is Mystic Mountain and Tranquility Cove, and a lot of rivers [but] I like to stay home.
LU: What?! You’re 17 and already a homebody?
SJ: I have to be really disciplined, but I like to go out. If there’s a little party or a dance I’ll go with my friends, or the movies…