When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
Dinah Jane has her cup ready. Like many artists, the former Fifth Harmony member recently had to postpone her first-ever headlining world tour, due to the coronavirus pandemic. The tour was strategically planned to launch just days after her highly-anticipated new single “Missed A Spot.”
Although fans will have to wait a little longer to see Jane in concert, she still plans to give her fans what they really want — new music.
Last week, she launched the rollout for “Missed A Spot,” which includes a new song every week leading up to its release on April 3. She began with “Lottery” and today (March 20), she treated fans with a bedroom-ready jam titled “1501.”
Rated R&B virtually caught up with Jane to talk about her latest track “1501,” her plans for more new music, her mindset for her debut album, how she practices self-care and more.
You just dropped a new track called “1501.” What inspired that song?
I attended my first writing camp in Bali as a solo artist two years ago. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into but thank the Lord I went on this trip because “1501” wouldn’t have existed if I hadn’t! With the help of M-Phazes and Modesty, this song was inspired by just vibes, honestly.
It was our first time meeting and the energy was just so right. M-Phazes started playing some chords and I just instantly started singing out the words, “Wait, wait, waiiiit” and locked that part in. Modesty and I started playing around with more melodies and ole girl came through with them melodies and pockets. I had to do my best implementing her touch to it.
The moment we locked in parts we started picking up on a storyline. It only felt right to play off the idea of two people getting over the “talking stage” and wanting to be more than friends. It’s that sexual frustration of wanting to take it to the next level with that person. We all agreed that it was predictable to name this record “Wait,” so why not play off the idea of these two meeting at the hotel room 1501 where they finally embrace each other with no regrets?
You’re releasing new music every Friday ahead of your next single “Missed A Spot” on April 3. Will these songs appear on your next project?
It depends. I haven’t gotten that far, but we’ll see. Things always switch up last minute, so I don’t have a definite answer on that as of right now. You gotta stay tuned!
There is so much anticipation about “Missed A Spot.” What can you tell us about this record? What is your favorite lyric/line from the song?
“Missed A Spot” is such a fun, playful record. I love the fact that I was able to sample a classic and timeless record from Australia’s finest Men at Work “Down Under.” And I’ve got so much love for Australia – I’ve always wanted to live there. There are so many parts on the track that I consider my favorite… I find the second verse dope because I give my alter ego a shoutout, and then the post-chorus is just so damn catchy. It’s sexy and empowering at the same time – I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!
When we spoke to you last year, you had mentioned completing your first-ever album was one thing you wanted to accomplish in 2020. How far along are you on your album and what has been your mindset while recording?
Considering the crisis we’re in right now, I’m crossing my fingers in hopes that I can still complete this task. At the same time, though, I’m not really in a rush? I’d say I’m not even halfway done with it. But then again, I’m an over-thinker and know there are some fire records – I just need to find a way to disperse them. It’s a good problem to have right now!
Music don’t feel the same because we barely have R&B, … R&B brung that balance to music.. now everything is leanin one way smh so it gets played out quick! We need R&B for the balance no kap!
— Young M.A (@YoungMAMusic) February 24, 2020
You retweeted Young M.A.’s tweet about R&B last month. What’s your stance on R&B right now?
For me, I feel like R&B has always been here! Just that sometimes no one’s paying attention or really even listening. But then again, we have Jhené Aiko, Summer Walker, H.E.R, Ella Mai, Tink, etc. They’ve been setting the tone, paving the way, and opening doors for R&B again.
You understandably had to postpone your world tour due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. Some artists have pivoted to virtual concerts/performances. Is this something you would try to tie over fans?
That’s interesting! I hadn’t given that much thought yet, but never say never. 😉
Given everything that is happening in the world right now. What are some ways you are practicing self-care?
With all the downtime I have now, I will say I’m grateful for YouTube. I’m learning so much – even simple stuff like learning how to do my hair and make-up on my own, finally! I’ve been drinking loads of water and orange juice to kick in them vitamin C’s. 🙏🏽It’s important to stay healthy while indoors as best we can right now!
https://www.instagram.com/p/B0g7QxvnCoo/
Stay tuned for new music from Dinah Jane! Follow her on Instagram @DinahJane97 and Twitter @DinahJane97.
