Though you might just recognise her voice from The Doqument‘s 2014 album ‘Black Canvas’ or Fiji’s 2015 song One Night, RnB singer Jordan Gavet‘s musical CV still has a lot of space to add future successes to. The self-described “new girl” released her solo debut single Hesitation in early September this year and was promptly picked up for NZ On Air‘s NewTracks compilation that month.

What’s your full name, where are you from and what instruments do you play, if any?

My full name is Jordan Gavet. I was born and raised in Sydney, Australia but I did primary school in Auckland and my parents were born and raised in NZ. I don’t play any instruments, unfortunately!

Was high school or other music training important for you?

Funnily enough I didn’t actually take music electives in school. My ‘training’ came from growing up with a musical dad who plays bass and was in a band, and I’ve loved music and been around it since I can remember.

Any other projects that we might know you from?

I’m not too sure, I’m kind of the new girl. Something I’m really proud of though is that I have done a song with the great Fiji.

How has your music evolved from your beginnings in songwriting to now?

Definitely learning to be more vulnerable. I used to write almost in code, haha, or about things that weren’t too personal. I’ve learnt to use my craft to be more open and honest in the hopes that my message will resonate with others.

What makes Hesitation stand out for you as a single?

The beat by Willstah was just too tough! It was originally a completely different feel, and when he changed it up to what it is now, the hook and everything just popped so much more. It’s a light catchy song with a deeper meaning.

What is the story behind the song?

Hesitation is about the lessons that come from being burnt in situations. We can either be defeated, or we can grow and come at things with a whole new perspective. A lot of that comes from self-worth. When you know who you are, you realise it doesn’t matter what other people do to you, that’s on them. Whilst it’s good to be cautious, I was too busy trying to block bad things out that I was potentially missing out on good things too, so it’s about using the lessons and finding that balance.

What’s your favourite moment, musical or lyrical, of Hesitation?

Definitely the third verse/breakdown. “Maybe I lived and I learned, now maybe I know what I’m worth, and maybe I gotta be earned.”

Who did you write/record/produce the single with and where? 

Willstah is a producer in Sydney and he did the music. We collaborated in Sydney, and when we first met up in the studio he told me that he had been messaging me for years and that I never got back to him. We were in fits, so awkward and crack up!

What would you like listeners to take away from this song?

To guard your heart, and to know that you’re worth putting in the extra mile for. Don’t be basic and let anyone treat you as an option, could nevaaa be me!

In general, how do you work out what song would make a good single?

I don’t think there’s one way of knowing. You never know. I think you just have to trust in your art and let go.

Any other musical endeavours you’re working on we should keep an eye out for?

I just cut a remix for a single named Easy by a group called Next Town Down from the US. Funny story; I heard this song and downloaded it last year and now I’m going to be on a remix, crazy.

Can you tell us three other local tunes that should be on a playlist alongside your song.

Cool Down – Stan Walker & Seth Haapu
I’m Never – Aaradhna
Cola – Foley

Have any of your previous applications not got funding or included on NewTracks? Got any advice for others? 

I was actually really lucky and had all successful applications. But I think hard work and patience pays off. I worked super hard on my songs and this project took me a year and a half to get it to place I was happy with, so it was nice to be recognised in this light.

Who did you make the video with?

I was blessed to have the amazing Shae Sterling direct my video. It was a really cool and eye-opening experience.

Are there any musical blogs, Youtube channels or podcasts you’re super into?

I’ve been watching funny vlogs lately to switch my brain off and have a laugh. I don’t do it too much because I don’t think it’s healthy or natural to just watch other people living life, lol. But I’m always watching random Ted Talks too about songwriting or self-motivation. The 5-second rule by Mel Robbins helped me a lot last year!

How can we find you on social media?

www.instagram.com/jordangavet

Any last words?

Life’s too short to sweat the small stuff, go after what you want. And be a good dude!