We recently got the chance to chat with country artist Jenna Paulette. Jenna told us about her new single “Midnight Cowboy”, her EP Modern Cowgirl: Vol 1, and what she enjoyed most about NYC when she was in town! Check it out!
upfrontNY: When did you first discover your passion for music?
Jenna Paulette: When I was a little girl, listening to country music with my family… It was always on, it sang about the life I was living, and wanted. I loved that. It made me want to help other people feel what I felt through country music.
upfrontNY: Who were your musical inspirations growing up?
Jenna Paulette: I have always loved George Strait and the Dixie Chicks. George represented the kind of men I admired growing up. He was authentic to me and made me want to represent country music that way.
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your new single “Midnight Cowboy”?
Jenna Paulette: “Midnight Cowboy” is a love song that goes out to those who have someone they love who are on the road. Whether ‘on the road’ means they are away on business, rodeoing, touring, driving a truck, or something else, it’s a song about holding down the home front for your loved ones until they return.
upfrontNY: What was it like filming the music video for this song?
Jenna Paulette: We shot the “Midnight Cowboy” video in West Texas over a weekend when we filmed three other videos from Modern Cowgirl: Volume 1. That weekend was so special to me – it was a collaboration of creative energy and amazing moments with my best friends. My friend Ross played the cowboy in this video, and he is the definition of the real deal. He manages the Stringfellow Ranch south of Marfa, Texas. I really love this video, and I feel like it represents the world I grew up in and love so much, while also honoring that western way of life.
upfrontNY: Your latest EP, Modern Cowgirl: Vol 1 is out now. How has it felt to share this with your fans?
Jenna Paulette: It feels so great, and I’ve been overwhelmed by the reaction. With this EP, I wanted listeners to understand the voice of the “Modern Cowgirl.” I took my time writing for this project, and I wanted it to have the energy and edge of my New West vibe.
upfrontNY: Do you have a favorite song or lyric from the album?
Jenna Paulette: I love them all for different reasons. But, “Midnight Cowboy” has had such incredible reactions live and on social media, it might be my favorite.
upfrontNY: You are currently on tour with Mason Ramsey. What has that experience been like so far?
Jenna Paulette: Touring with Mason has been amazing. Love that kid so much! He has such an electric presence on stage, and learning from him on my first tour has been the best experience.
upfrontNY: Do you have any pre show rituals?
Jenna Paulette: I love to warm up, and I write out all my transitions and cues on my set list. I usually pray for the audience side stage before I walk out, and I pace back and forth until my cue.
upfrontNY: You recently performed at Gramercy Theatre in NYC. What was the best part of that performance?
Jenna Paulette: The fact that the audience felt so country in a big city like NYC, it amazed me and just made my heart so happy AND people were singing with me… it was pretty cool.
upfrontNY: What did you enjoy most about NYC?
Jenna Paulette: The energy of the city, the food — Kung Fu Kitchen, I ate there twice! Also, the fringe jacket and black boots I got at Zara — we don’t have many of those stores down south!
upfrontNY: What is your dream location, city, or country to perform?
Jenna Paulette: I want to perform at the Houston Rodeo and headline. That will be a dream come true.
Loved this interview. It is so nice to hear about your plans Jenna.
Carolyn Thomas