Inspired #360 - Jen Berkova
Jen Berkova has just released her new track ‘Adventure Time’ - a playful intertwining piece of R&B that mixes with afro fusion. Centering around the feeling of being trapped inside, where home walls know everything, this track has arrived for those also with bigger aspirations.
Jen took a moment to talk to us about the inspirations behind her music.
Who are your top three musical inspirations and why?
My musical influences are always changing. There was a point where I would listen to Lauryn hill non stop, the way she raps with such skill and then can suddenly switch to singing has always inspired me to be more unique and playful with my own sound. I also love watching old live shows of Sade, her level of style and elegance on stage has always been something I’ve admired and tried to adapt into my own. More recently, I’ve been influenced by Raye, another female UK artist. I genuinely love the way she writes her heart out on every track. This has always been an aim of mine, that with every song I write and perform I’m able to make people feel something.
Is there a certain film that inspires you and why?
The movie “Premature” directed by Rashad Ernesto Green captures the beautiful, emotional and flawed aspects of a relationship. You get such a raw and honest perspective when watching and it inspires me to create music with the same level of vulnerability.
What city do you find the most interesting and why?
I’ve lived in Oxford for most of my life, I’ve travelled a lot too, but there’s literally no place like home. Oxford is where my friends, family, church and home is and it allows me to be most authentic and honest with who I am and what I want to write about.
Who is the most inspiring to you and why?
My faith has always been a big part of my life and I wouldn’t be in music without God. He’s the one that has blessed me with an amazing band, producer and support system and I can’t wait to see where he takes me next in my career.
What were your inspirations when writing your new track?
Boredom. Aha, I wrote it during the first lockdown and for every day that I couldn’t do something it gave me more to write about. Also to keep myself sane, I listened to a lot of Afro beats, this inspired the track to be a lot more playful, imaginative and just good vibes.
How would you like to inspire people?
I’ve always aimed to be intentional with what I write, say and how I choose to treat people around me. Through being authentic and honest in my music and in everyday life, I hope to encourage others to do the same.
