Q&A: Naomi Jane Crafts Cinematic Love in "Why Not"
NAOMI JANE DIVES INTO THE WORLD of rom-com-inspired love with her latest single, "Why Not." The track reflects her unwavering belief in cinematic love, a hopeful romantic perspective that, despite life's twists, hasn't dimmed. Drawing inspiration from her favorite movie, "The Notebook," Naomi infuses commitment and determination into her music.
In "Why Not," Naomi Jane not only delivers a melodious narrative but also opens a window into her artistic soul, where love, hope, and resilience converge in harmonious brilliance.
Read below for Naomi’s insights into her songwriting process, her classical training as a mezzo-soprano, and the influence of her diverse interests on her creativity.
LUNA: "Why Not" seems to draw inspiration from the idea of an idealized love often portrayed in rom-coms. What prompted you to explore this theme in your latest single, and how does it reflect your personal views on love and relationships?
NAOMI JANE: I love rom-coms and at age 14, I still believe in cinematic love, the kind they show in the movies! I am a not a hopeless romantic, I am hopeful one. And ya, that hasn’t always worked out for me, but I have not stopped trying!
LUNA: Are there specific movies or characters that have had a profound impact on your perception of love and romance?
NAOMI JANE: The Notebook is my favorite movie of all time. I know it by heart! Noah is determined to love Allie and he won’t stop until he gets that love. Once he has it, he make sure he never loses it. He wrote Allie 365 letters, that takes commitment!
LUNA: Your musical journey spans various genres, from theater productions to your original compositions. How do you approach songwriting differently when crafting a song like "Why Not" compared to your work in musical theater?
NAOMI JANE: For me, songwriting is so different yet also similar to musical theater. In musical theater, I approach the character and song as it is written, by someone else. I can put my spin on it, but writers and directors can be very specific about how the artist tells the character’s story in the songs and acting. With songwriting, I get to tell my own stories and those I choose. I can tell them my way, from my point of view with my emotions. I kind of approach my songwriting like a musical, in that I set a scene, have some characters, and tell their story.
LUNA: Your upcoming role as Roxie Hart in "Chicago" is highly anticipated. How do you prepare for such iconic roles, and how does performing on stage compare to your experiences in television and film?
NAOMI JANE: I am so excited for my role as Roxie Hart in "Chicago". Preparation and rehearsals right now are insane! Dance is so important to the show and learning how to perform Bob Fosse’s choreography is fire. I love being on stage, it’s my favorite place to be. I like the energy of a live audience far more than being in front of a camera (television and film).
LUNA: As a songwriter, you've been dubbed the "piano poet." Can you share a bit about your creative process when writing lyrics and music?
NAOMI JANE: My music and lyrics come simultaneously at the piano. The piano is where I do my writing. Chords come together with words so naturally for me there. I love to write poetry but it’s way easier and more natural when I am also on the keys.
LUNA: Your classical training as a mezzo-soprano is evident in the impressive vocal range showcased in your music. How does your vocal training influence the emotions and storytelling in your songs, especially in a piece like "Why Not”?
NAOMI JANE: Classical training has broadened my vocal range and that allows to do really fun things. The training has also required me to focus on telling a story through song. It has helped me expand and control my instrument. The funniest fact about it is - now, with my own music, my voice teacher (from Juilliard ) tells me to “break every rule” she every taught me. With pop music I get to scoop, slide, squeak, and creak. I love it.
LUNA: Beyond your musical pursuits, you are also involved in philanthropy, particularly in addressing issues like gun violence and hunger. How do you use your platform as an artist to advocate for these causes, and why are they important to you?
NAOMI JANE: Our family has always given back to the community. I was raised that way and have been involved in gun violence prevention from the start. I lived close to Sandy Hook Elementary in Connecticut when there was a mass shooting that killed 26 people, 20 where kids just a bit older than me. I grew up volunteering for gun violence prevention organizations and participating in marches and rallies. As I gained a platform for my music, I sang for many causes. Earlier this year I produced, directed, and hosted my first Broadway benefit concert in NYC raising funds for the Ethan Miller Song Foundation. Ethan was killed at his friend’s house when they got access to an unsecured gun. I feel quite fortunate to be able to help others while doing something I love.
LUNA: In addition to music, you engage in various activities like creating TikTok content, playing softball, and penning poetry. How do these diverse pursuits contribute to your overall creativity and well-being as an artist?**
NAOMI JANE: Living life, like going to high school, playing softball, being with my friends, going to dances, all contribute to my creativity, happiness, and songwriting. My music tells stories of this life. Stories I think teens can relate to and memories others can relate to. I kind of think that if I didn’t do this stuff, I would not have much to write about.
LUNA: As a young and accomplished artist, what advice do you have for aspiring musicians, especially those who are navigating the challenges of breaking into the industry at a young age?
NAOMI JANE: The advice I would give other young aspiring musicians is to keep learning, work hard, and never give up. Surround yourself with good people, find adults you can trust that support you being your own artist. Take lessons and practice, ya, I know no one wants to hear that! Celebrate every success, brush off rejection, and believe in yourself.
