2020 Adversity Inspires Action for Rock Artist Jodi Essex's Music Releases
Years after hanging up her microphone “for good this time,” she got the call. It came quickly for Christian Rock Artist Jodi Essex on the tailend of a successful career in film and television; at the time, she recalls feeling disenchanted with the CCM genre’s general ethos and lack of diversity. In 2018, the call to write, record and release a Christian album became clear, just in time for the year 2020 to hit. Discerning God’s voice in the era of COVID amidst growing tensions, an exclusive interview with Jodi reveals how God’s call for her music has proven to be worth it.
“I’ve learned not even something like the greatest pandemic since 1918 can stop an awesome GOD thing!” Jodi remarks, “The support of my music through streams, features and worldwide fan response has been humbling and amazing.”
This year, Jodi has premiered her full-length debut album entitled, “Irreverent” (June 26, 2020) and cover song for Lee Greenwood’s classic, “God Bless the USA” (August 28, 2020). Jodi’s album, written and recorded at Uphill Studios in Atlanta, GA alongside Studio Owner, Producer and Drummer Sean Hill (Jamie Grace, Clay Crosse, Landry Cantrell), is backed by an experienced team of musicians; featured players include guitarist and bassist Jadan Sorenson (Angie Stone, Montell Jordan, Crystal Nicole, Sounds of Blackness, Bucky Covington), Pablo Melgar - Keys (touring with FRVR FREE; previously with New Song, Passion, Jesus Culture), Josh Smith (Strings), Jon-Paul Keller - Background Vocals (David and Nicole Binion, BJ Putnam). It was mixed by Sean Hill and mastered by Bob Boyd (Ambient Digital, LLC).
To date, Jodi’s music has been featured on prominent Spotify playlists including New Music Friday Christian, was the May international chartbreaker on XNOIZZ, Artist of The Month on CSN’s Effect Radio with her single, “Stand Up,” charting top 5 in Canada; additionally, Essex’s record received attention from regional and national outlets including CCM Magazine, Worship Magazine, Hallels, 100% Rock Magazine and The Rockpit, in Australia.
After witnessing success with her recent releases, Jodi admits she would love nothing more than to connect with fans through live shows. Believing in the power of presence, she longs to give listeners a solid, meaningful performance to inspire, uplift and energize them… but surely, live shows are not so easy this year. If 2020 has taught Jodi anything, though, it’s that life can throw us some serious curveballs! Instead of letting it stop us from taking action, however, her unhindered leap of faith continues to reinforce her belief that adversity can lead us to take action.
“Now’s the time to move by letting God move, Jodi says. “There are no impossibilities, no matter what life space you’re in at the moment! Don’t ask why; rather demand of yourself “why not?” Then go out and do something you’ve always dreamed of and desired to do! Now. Remember none of us are promised tomorrow!”
To hear the heart behind Jodi’s debut album and music project, watch her full-length interview about the many ups and downs of releasing new music in 2020 and to experience her music firsthand, catch her cover of “God Bless the USA” and full-length album, “Irreverent,” on all streaming platforms with a complementary music video collection.
