Has Joy Crookes Found Freedom from Perfectionism in Her Music?

Joy Crookes, a rising star in the music industry with Irish-Bangladeshi heritage, has transformed her personal struggles into an empowering second album, *Juniper*. Following her acclaimed debut, Crookes’ journey through anxiety and self-discovery is mirrored in her songwriting, resulting in a rich, soulful collection that explores themes of identity and resilience.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Joy Crookes blends her diverse musical influences into her unique sound.
• Her second album, *Juniper*, marks a significant personal and artistic evolution.
• Crookes has openly addressed her struggles with anxiety and self-worth through her music.
• The album features a mix of emotional ballads and upbeat tracks, showcasing her versatility.
• Her journey includes a film debut, further expanding her artistic expression.

A Musical Journey Rooted in Diversity

Joy Crookes’ love for music began in childhood, fuelled by her father's eclectic tastes. From Nick Cave to King Tubby, these influences shaped her understanding of music's power. Born to an Irish father and a Bangladeshi mother, Crookes embraces her cultural heritage, which resonates deeply in her work. Her debut album, *Skin*, released in 2021, showcased her soulful voice and lyrical depth, earning her a Mercury Prize nomination and solidifying her place in the music scene.

Overcoming the Second Album Slump

Many artists face the dreaded “second album slump,” a phenomenon where the pressure to replicate the success of a debut can hinder creativity. Crookes, however, approached her sophomore effort with a distinct perspective. "People think the scary part of your second album is the writing," she reflects. "For me, I’ve always got something to say, so it wasn’t that difficult to write."

Creating *Juniper*: A Labour of Love

Work on *Juniper* began long before its release, with Crookes sharing early sketches and demos on social media. The lengthy production process stemmed not from a lack of material but from a quest for sonic perfection. "Making sure that the songs sounded the way they should, to match the songwriting, that was the hard part," she explains. Her recent single, "Perfect Crime," encapsulates this ethos—a playful, rhythmic track that required multiple takes to achieve the desired vibe. Crookes embraces imperfections, stating, "If it was polished, it’d ruin the fun of the song."

Exploring Vulnerability Through Music

On *Juniper*, Crookes explores personal themes with honesty and humour. The album's philosophical closer, "Paris," stands out as a moment of vulnerability, where she deliberately sings off-key to convey raw emotion. This decision aligns with her father's teachings about artists like Van Morrison, who embraced imperfection for authenticity. "And I think for the first time ever in my career, and just as a person, I let myself go on this record," she states.

Confronting Personal Struggles

While Crookes’ artistic journey flourished, she faced significant personal challenges. A surge of anxiety in 2022 coincided with a tumultuous period in her life, marked by an abusive relationship that exacerbated her mental health struggles. "The anxiety had become so significant that it had become completely physical," she reveals. Crookes describes grappling with debilitating symptoms, including panic attacks and severe nausea, which often left her unable to function.

A Journey of Recovery

With the support of "very intrusive" therapy, Crookes began to reclaim her life. Recognising that anxiety had become an inseparable part of her existence, she embarked on a journey to unlearn harmful behaviours. This struggle is poignantly captured in "First Last Dance," where she confronts her anxiety with a danceable beat, transforming a painful experience into a moment of empowerment. "It’s more like, 'I can’t have you be so prominent that I physically cannot function'," she explains.

Friendship and Support

Throughout her struggles, Crookes found solace in her friendships, particularly with her manager, Charlie. "Charlie said, 'Well, you know I’d kill for you'," she recalls, highlighting the protective bond they share. This sentiment became a source of strength for Crookes, reminding her of the importance of genuine connections amidst adversity. The track "I Know You’d Kill" serves as a tribute to this friendship, showcasing the unwavering support that helped her navigate her darkest moments.

Emerging Stronger and Multi-Faceted

As her mental health improved, Crookes began to rediscover her identity as an artist and individual. In "Somebody To You," she reflects on the suffocating nature of relationships, both romantic and professional, questioning, "Who am I when I’m out of your sight?" This introspective lyric underscores her desire to be defined by more than just her music. "I’d like to think that my life is a plethora of things," she asserts, embracing the complexities of her identity.

Branching Out into Film

Crookes has also expanded her artistic repertoire by venturing into acting. Her film debut in *Ish*—a poignant narrative about friendship tested by systemic issues—has garnered acclaim, even earning recognition at the Venice Film Festival. Crookes expressed enthusiasm for future film projects, especially a potential role in Gurinder Chadha’s sequel to *Bend It Like Beckham*, a film that profoundly influenced her youth. "I mean, it literally touches on brownness and Irishness," she reflects, excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

The Release of *Juniper* and Looking Ahead

Now gearing up for the release of *Juniper*, Crookes experiences a whirlwind of emotions. "When you overcome stuff like that, one minute you feel so proud and the next you feel so sad for yourself that you went through such a hard time," she shares. This duality encapsulates the essence of her new album, which celebrates resilience while acknowledging past struggles. The second album slump has been sent packing, and Crookes is ready to embrace her future.

A New State of Mind

With her next album already in the works, Crookes expresses a newfound sense of clarity and contentment. "I feel very alive at the moment, and I am so grateful," she states, reflecting on her journey and the growth she has experienced over the past few years. The lessons learned during her struggles have shaped her artistry, allowing her to create music that resonates deeply with her audience.

Conclusion

Joy Crookes’ journey from a budding artist to a multifaceted creator is a testament to her resilience and artistic vision. Through her music, she not only shares her experiences but also inspires others to embrace their complexities. As she continues to evolve, Crookes remains a powerful voice in the music industry, and her story serves as a reminder of the strength found in vulnerability. What will her future hold? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Joy Crookes is here to stay, and her music will continue to touch hearts.

FAQs

What is Joy Crookes known for?

Joy Crookes is known for her unique blend of musical influences, soulful voice, and introspective lyrics. Her debut album, *Skin*, received critical acclaim, leading to a Mercury Prize nomination.

What themes does Joy Crookes explore in her music?

Crookes explores themes of identity, mental health, and personal struggles in her music. She combines heartfelt ballads with upbeat tracks, creating a diverse listening experience.

What is the significance of Joy Crookes’ album *Juniper*?

*Juniper* marks Crookes' second album and showcases her personal growth and artistic evolution. It addresses her struggles with anxiety and highlights the importance of friendship and support.

How has Joy Crookes’ heritage influenced her music?

Crookes' Irish-Bangladeshi heritage plays a significant role in her music, informing her lyrical content and enriching her sound. She often draws on her cultural background to create a unique artistic identity.

What other artistic ventures is Joy Crookes pursuing?

In addition to her music career, Crookes has ventured into acting, making her film debut in *Ish*, which has received critical acclaim. She expresses interest in future film projects, including a potential role in a sequel to *Bend It Like Beckham*.