Armed with an undeniable talent and a deep-rooted passion for storytelling, 18-year-old Joanna Mathers is taking the music world by storm. Mathers’ home was always awash with the symphonies of classical music, courtesy of her parents who are both classical music teachers. From an early age, the idea of a life without music was a foreign concept. It was this immersion in a musically enriched environment that has shaped Mathers into the prodigious singer-songwriter she is today.
Dubbed ‘Jo’ by her fans and peers, Mathers possesses an incredible ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners on an intimate, emotional level. She employs subtle metaphors, giving her songs a universal appeal, enabling her listeners to find their own narratives within her compositions. Check her out on Spotify and you’ll discover that every song is like an island, standing out with its unique ecosystem of emotion, yet part of the larger archipelago of her artistry.
A glimpse into her past reveals her determination and drive. At the tender age of 11, Mathers made the leap from classical music to more contemporary melodies, penning her first song and kick-starting her love for songwriting. She faced her artistic challenges with patience, going through numerous iterations of what she felt could be the next pop sensation. A beat-up mac mini, her brother’s monitor, and a slew of GarageBand tutorials on YouTube were her tools as she tread the path of a self-taught musician. The result? A talented multi-instrumentalist capable of playing the piano, guitar, and bass, and a music producer who’s steadily honing her craft.
The release of her second EP, ‘XVIII’, marks a significant milestone in her journey. It’s a reflection of her maturation and musical evolution, a testament to her five years of dedication to her craft. Each track is a testament to her versatility, allowing her to cater to a range of audiences. Follow her journey on Instagram to stay updated with her latest projects and releases.
On “XVIII”, rounding off the EP is “Like the Movies,” a song that echoes the magic of cinematic romance and the longing for reality to mimic the blissful, often unrealistic, scenarios portrayed on screen. It captures Jo’s imaginative storytelling, leaving listeners on a calming high note, while also subtly reminding them of the contrast between the reel and the real. “XVIII” as a whole offers a mature, well-rounded exploration of human emotion and experience, solidifying Joanna Mathers as a musical force to be reckoned with.
When asked about her dream collaboration, she doesn’t hesitate to mention Blake Rose, a fellow Australian artist known for his lyrical prowess and captivating vocal abilities. She admires his knack for storytelling and ability to hold the audience’s attention, a quality she herself has masterfully embodied.
Although Mathers plans to take a break after her recent EP release, she assures fans that she’s constantly writing and exploring new musical possibilities. The stage calls to her as well, and she’s excitedly awaiting the right time to perform live. She aims to translate the emotive connection of her studio recordings into an electric live experience, setting the stage for a deeper bond with her audience.
Beyond her music, Mathers also has an important message to share: understanding the struggle of chasing dreams. She empathizes with those who possess an all-consuming desire for a goal that seems unreachable. She knows what it feels like to question the feasibility of a dream that feels like a part of your very existence. But with her accomplishments, Mathers proves that dreams, no matter how grand, can be realized with dedication, resilience, and a love for one’s craft.
Joanna Mathers, in her journey, has become an inspiring beacon for young musicians and dreamers everywhere. As she continues to use her music to connect, heal, and inspire, her star is only set to shine brighter in the firmament of the music world.
