This week we’re showcasing the talented Los Angeles newcomer Julianna Joy, an artist unafraid of wearing her heart on her sleeve. Through her music, she transforms her raw, vulnerable emotions into deeply relatable narratives. Her journey began at just 17-years-old with the release of her debut single ‘Nevermind’ and now we’re catching up with this rising artist as she unveils her latest track ‘Goldstar’. While it’s clear that she’s grown as an artist, there’s also a consistent thread of strong storytelling within those indie-pop gems. For On The Record, Joy shares how this new song rooted in reflection, emotional reckoning and a discovery of self-worth. She opens up about the creative process, the unexpected influences behind the track and how she’s grown as an artist since her debut single. It’s an exciting time for Julianna Joy as she stands on the precipice of her first album release, SOMEBODY CALL THE FIREMEN!, so we thought this was a perfect time to connect and find out more.
Welcome to Unrecorded! For those you aren’t already familiar with Julianna Joy, can you introduce yourselves?
Yes! Hi, my name is Julianna Joy. I’m an artist and songwriter from Chicago and now live in LA.
‘GOLDSTAR’ is the lead single from your debut album, SOMEBODY CALL THE FIREMEN!, why did you pick out this song as the perfect introduction to the project?
I was really unsure of what to pick for a lead single – I was in a very rare circumstance where every person I asked had a different opinion. I ended up choosing ‘Goldstar’ because I felt like it was the most commercial sounding and felt like a really good transition from the sound of ‘UNHAPPY’ to now.
What does this song mean to you? Is there a personal story behind it?
The song is about an old friend of mine who I found out was basically plotting against me our entire friendship. I wrote the song as a way to understand what it was about her that made me crave our friendship despite knowing what she had done, and I realized that it was this dynamic her and I shared of being put down and wanting to earn approval from her in an endless cycle. Once it clicked that her external validation was a waste of time (which didn’t happen until maybe a year ago), this song became what it was.
You co-wrote this song with Dee Lilly and Jenna Shorey, what was the songwriting process like?
Jenna and I had known each other for years and Dee and I had known each other fot years so it was a very smooth sailing when it came to writing. We worked on the song from 2022 until the middle of 2024 and pieced it together. I really love taking space with a song and coming back with a clear vision on what needs to happen to finish it.
Were there any unexpected influences or inspirations that found their way into ‘GOLDSTAR’?
I was inspired by both Queen and The Strokes with this one. I think we used “Seaside Rendevous” and “The Adults Are Talking” as references.
Comparing releasing ‘Nevermind’ at just 17-years-old to now, how do you feel you’ve grown as an artist?
I feel like I know exactly what I’m looking for now. I think when I was younger, I only really wanted validation from others and music was something I was very good at right away and so it always felt like the only thing I was worthy of attention for. When I released “Nevermind” I couldn’t enjoy it because I was so scared of what my friends in school would say it. I think now, even though I am still insane around release dates, I finally enjoy it. I take so much pride in knowing my music is good and knowing that it will be accepted by thousands of people who love me for me.
You recently opened for Xana on tour, what was that experience like?
Xana was such a sweetheart. She was so supportive of me and her fanbase is diehard. It was amazing connecting with so many people after the shows.
Your music has gained recognition on major platforms like Spotify’s Fresh Finds and Zane Lowe’s radio show. How does it feel to see your work resonate with such a wide audience?
I think if I saw the “wide audience” in person with my own eyes my brain could comprehend it more.
Do you have any upcoming live performances or plans to tour with the new album?
Not as of right now. I’m open all summer if anyone wants to book me as an opening act 😉
If listeners could take away one feeling or message from ‘GOLDSTAR’, what would you want it to be?
Spite and anger are as good a fuel as gasoline.
You can also listen to ‘Goldstar’ in our Shades of Pop playlist.
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