Meet Jon Hill. The New York-based and LA-based musician is making his debut after six years of writing and producing for an impressive list of artists including Anitta, Kyle Lux and Sedona. The singer-songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist is starting a new chapter now with the release of his new single Heart. It’s an honest, poignant song, that swiftly transports us into Jon’s sonic universe, driven by his powerful vocals and that memorable chorus. We spoke to the artist about his debut single and what’s next:

We love the new single. Why was Heart the right song to introduce the world to your solo work?

I’ve spent the last few years mainly focused on helping other artists with their music, whether it’s production, songwriting or both. Every now and then I would write something that I felt could be a potential release for my solo project. 'Heart' is the first song that felt like me if that makes any sense. I’ve never gotten sick of it.

Tell us about creating Heart. What was inspiring you? Where did you write it?

I wrote this song at a time where I was feeling a bit let down by some people in my life. I think that feeling was the driving force. The song unraveled rather quickly. I was in my studio at my apartment where I usually work on music, started playing a guitar part, and the bones of the song were there within an hour.

What have you learnt about yourself through making this song and now releasing it into the world?

I’m learning everyday, but I feel like writing and releasing this song is helping me learn how to believe in myself a bit more. I struggle with that, and I think releasing music that feels honest to me will help me work towards overcoming that.

How do you hope people feel listening to the song?

I hope people listen to this song and find their own meaning and connection to it. This song is no longer for me, it’s for the listener. I want people to feel honesty when they hear this song.  

Which artists have been key north stars for you for creating your own solo material?

My north star artists are always changing, but for this project I would say Radiohead is a huge influence for me, as well as early Coldplay, Nirvana, and Smashing Pumpkins.

You’ve worked with a lot of great artists on a production/songwriting level. How do you think working in this way has informed you in making your own sound?

Working with other artists is my main inspiration for creating my own music. Every time I work with a new artist, it ignites a spark within me to keep going and write more for myself. I learn so much from the artists I work with.

Who would you love to collaborate with?

I’ve been lucky enough to be surrounded by some incredibly talented producers/writers and artists. I feel honored to be able to call these people my friends. Right now, my dream collaboration would have to be Nigel Godrich. His attention to detail in the recording process has always been super inspiring to me.

What's been inspiring you lately - aside from music?

I recently met someone very special to me. She’s been a new light for me and has opened my eyes to so many pieces of myself that I had trouble seeing.

Who is on your playlist at the moment? Which artists are you excited about?

Big Thief, Radiohead, Coldplay, Andy Shauf, Nirvana, Beck, Smashing Pumpkins to name a few from my current playlist. Some new artists I’ve been really loving are Blondshell, Soran, Medium Build, and Levi Roth.

What’s next?!

More music!! Stay tuned :)

Listen to Heart HERE.

@songsbyjon