A Wandsworth-based popstar is aiming to change perceptions with her music this mental health awareness week.
July Jones, originally from Slovenia, is releasing her new single Liar Liar (Pants on Fire) this month.
Miss Jones performed the song at W12 Studios in West London last month to promote mental health awareness.
She said: “Liar Liar (Pants on Fire) is a song revolving around social media’s impact on the youth. It talks about an outside image we portray online.”
Miss Jones was discovered at age 14 by a German record label after she posted covers on YouTube, with one reaching half a million views.
She has written music for various artists around the world including Sigala, Draper, Sigrid and Tara Carosiell. She said: “I knew at this point that writing was what I was meant to do in my life.”
Miss Jones has openly spoken about her own personal struggles with mental health. She said: “I wanted to look into issues with mental health. I struggle with anxiety a lot and I wanted to speak out about it as that is what I am always seeking in an artist, as a listener.”
She added: “I wanted to be as transparent as I can with the campaign by opening up about the mental health issues I’ve struggled with and in that way spreading awareness and helping others come forward with their struggles.”
SPEAKING OUT: Miss Jones wants to raise awareness of mental health issues with her music.
Miss Jones has lived in Wandsworth for four years said that London has helped to shape the sound of her new music.
When she moved to London she had no friends, family or income, she performed everywhere she could and promised herself that her only income would be come from music.
Miss Jones has focused on creating lyrics that people can connect with and to help them grow mentally.
She said: “I like to push the boundaries and expectations people might have about me, I love being honest and transparent with my lyrics and a little bit quirky with my vocal melodies.”
She added: “I take inspiration from everywhere, it could be a sign inside a Tesco’s store, doesn’t really matter, I pick it up anywhere I can. With my personal project, I tend to draw inspiration from my identity. My project is very raw and honest.”
Jones has partnered with a mental health organisation called The Mix which will be joining her on her campaign.
This charity helps to support young people under the age of 25 by connecting with them through social media, mobile apps, websites and helplines.
Miss Jones encourages young people to reach out and seek help with any problems they are facing including relationships, body awareness, mental health or any lifestyle concerns.
EMPOWERING: Miss Jones wants to inspire others through her music.
Miss Jones also raises awareness around mental health for the Lesbian Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community.
Last year she toured around the UK with Pride, she said: “I spoke about diversity and acceptance of the LGBT community. That is something I’m really passionate about.”
She added: “I love the diversity of London, I love different cultures actually coming together and not standing against each other. I love pushing boundaries and talking about uncomfortable things. It’s something I will always do as an artist.”
Miss Jones is well-known for her red theme and body ink, she said they represent strength and determination and hopes others will also feel empowered when they hear her lyrics.
She said: “I just know my place on this earth is to leave a mark with my music and that’s all I honestly care about. I want to give people something to cry or laugh to, and I work hard to make that happen.”
