by mariah estran
photo courtesy of jena rose
Jena Rose is in control when it comes to the strategic game relationships can produce. She is taking back the power, calling the shots by releasing an empowering new single and video for “Checkmate” on June 11th.
After watching Queen’s Gambit, Rose found herself inspired by the powerful storylines, and of course, the competitive tactics of chess. She describes, “What would chess look like in a relationship? I am taking power back and saying, ‘checkmate.'"
Musically, finding inspiration from 80s hitmakers like Depeche Mode, the tune is electrifying. It packs a pop punch with its moody, synth-filled beat.
As for the video, the theme is on a bigger scale. Think large chess pieces, a queen’s throne, and luxe fashion statements. Directed by Veronica Zelle and produced by Frank Simonetti (Sweety High), Rose’s management, the group found a way to merge the Disney classic Alice in Wonderland with Queen’s Gambit. “We are playing chess in an apartment, then it transitions to a life-size chessboard with life-size chess pieces,” the singer shares about the video.
She has already gifted fans the twenty-second teaser for the release. In that short amount of time, we experience the flashes of grandeur that make pop music so fabulous.
Recently signed to Gem Street Music, the singer is bound to leave an impression and have us wanting more.
We had the chance to speak with Rose about “Checkmate” before it’s out in the world. She told us more about the inspiration, what the visual entails, how she’s finding her sound, and what we can expect from her upcoming debut EP, Baby, Maybe.
At just 20-years-old, you have toured with numerous acts, such as Aly & AJ, and had global success with tracks like “Forever Yours.” What pushed you to pursue a career in music?
Jena: “I’ve always had a love for music, ever since I was a little girl. I always played piano and guitar. It’s just been in my heart forever, and I always knew I wanted to do it. I think it was after my first performance, when I was nine, at the House of Blues was when I was like ‘wow.’ I stepped on stage — I was always so shy, but when I got on stage, it was like, this is my home, this is what I want to do.”
You are about to release your new single, “Checkmate.” What can you tell us about the track and what inspired it?
J: “I’m sure you’ve heard of the ‘Queens Gambit.’ It’s such a girl-power show. It sparked a love for chess in me too. I think with ‘Checkmate,’ I decided to do a spin on that. What would chess look like in a relationship? I am taking power back and saying, ‘checkmate.’ You can relate that to your life in so many other ways and relationships. If people don’t value you, you, and if you know your worth, that’s all you need.”
Tell us more about what we can expect from the “Checkmate” music video?
J: “The story is about a guy and me — it’s a toxic relationship. We are playing chess in an apartment. Then it transitions to a life-size chess board with life-size chess pieces.
We are playing chess in real life and relate it to our lives and relationship. I dance in it. The choreographer, Richy Jackson — he’s Lady Gaga’s choreographer. He is so amazing. It was an honor to work with him — he had this vision and executed it to perfection.
It was directed by my manager, Veronica Zelle. She started out directing music videos and producing music videos. So, she always has visions and is so creative.”
How did you work yourself up to incorporate choreography into your story?
J: “Dance is something that I love. I’ve been in dance lessons three times a week for a while now. I feel very myself when dancing. On set, it translated as well, I felt like myself, I felt at home.”
You have this sound that showcases an electronic dance influence while still having an R&B-type flare. How would you say you have continued to develop your sound over the years?
J: “I feel like every young artist — their sound is constantly developing in their songs. I’m changing and growing as a person, which reflects in my music as well. I feel like, with 80’s influences. I grew up listening to Depeche Mode and Elton John. So many 80s artists. That’s reflecting in my music right now.”
These singles are leading up to your debut EP, Baby, Maybe. What can listeners expect from this upcoming project?
J: “I feel like once you hear ‘Checkmate,’ you’ll get it. It’s a lot of those vibes, and it includes a ballad I’m really excited about too. We have some exciting things in the works, and I am so excited for everyone to hear.”