Cloudy June – 21st Century Princess

By: Francesca Fortino

Q) How would you describe your musical style? 

CJ: I draw influences from many different genres, but I’d say you could sum it all up as “alt-pop.”

Q) What inspired you to write the song “Devil Is a Woman?”

CJ: “Devil Is a Woman” was inspired by my experiences with the religious narratives I encountered while growing up. I wanted to speak out against the idea that women should be demonized or punished for expressing themselves or embracing their sexuality.

Q) In the song “You Problem” you explore the theme of cheating and toxic relationships. How do you expect this song to empower yourself and women in general? 

CJ: “You Problem” is about the realization that while your toxic partner made you believe you were “being too sensitive,” it’s actually them who were literally treating you horribly. When you first see that and can finally point your finger at a real “problem,” that’s a pretty freeing feeling. We all deserve better than being treated like trash in relationships and this song is also a reminder of our worth.

Q) How would you explain the meaning behind your ballad “Love Under the Influence” and what are the reasons that pushed you to write it? 

CJ: I felt like the more vulnerable side of me had fallen short in my music for a while, so I really wanted to explore those topics again. “Love Under the Influence” touches upon the idea of losing oneself in love, to the point where it becomes intoxicating and can cloud your judgment and perception. And it also deals with being a people-pleaser.

Q) Why did you choose the song “21st Century Princess” as the focus track for the EP?

CJ: “21st Century Princess” became the focus track for the EP because it encapsulates the themes and messages I want to convey. That song confronts traditional expectations put on women. For example, always having to be pretty and polite – like a princess. And the lyrics also shine a light on the importance of self-expression and embracing individuality. “21st Century Princess” basically represents the spirit of the EP and sets the tone for the other tracks.

Q) What can you tell us about the track “Does Your Girlfriend Know?” and what does this tell the audience about your perspective on relationships?

CJ: That song about a person hitting on me who is in a monogamous relationship. “Does Your Girlfriend Know?” is a bit flirty but at the same time I’m calling someone out, letting them know that I’m well aware of what is happening.

Q) Which songs on the EP are your personal favorite, or maybe even challenged you creatively? 

CJ: I wish I had an easy answer, but it always changes. Especially when performing the songs live, I pick new favorites every time. Right now, I would say “Devil Is a Woman” and “Documentary.” But “Love Under the Influence” was the most challenging to write because it felt like exploring new territory all over again.

Q) When it comes to your songwriting, do you have a particular process, or does it often change song to song? 

CJ: My songwriting process is quite flexible and can vary from song to song. Sometimes I start with a melody or a phrase that inspires me and other times I begin with a concept or a specific emotion I want to convey and bring that to the studio session. And other times I’m at a session and we just start from scratch and see what inspires us in the moment.

Q) You’ve been called a queer icon for a generation, what impact do you hope to make through your music and attitude?

CJ: I want to inspire people to stay true to who they are, even when society might not accept or appreciate them. My dream is to encourage people to find joy in being queer and in being a woman who is open about her sexuality and to inspire people to express themselves in the way that feels right to them.

Q) Who would you love to collaborate with on a song in the future?

CJ: Miley Cyrus & Kim Petras, also YUNGBLUD

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

CJ: Thank you for your love and support. You are literally the reason I can do what I do, and I am forever grateful as hell for that.