Joy Crookes, the British singer-songwriter, recently opened up about her ongoing struggles with self-doubt and her harrowing experiences with racism in an interview and photoshoot for Glamour UK. At just 26, she has already made a significant impact on the music scene, particularly following the acclaim of her debut album, "Skin," which emerged in 2021 to widespread praise. However, despite her impressive monthly listener count of 2.5 million on Spotify, Joy candidly reflects on pervasive insecurities that many artists face.

In her conversation with Glamour, Crookes expressed a feeling of inadequacy, remarking, "I sometimes worry I’m not interesting enough for this industry." This sentiment adds a layer of complexity to her narrative as she compares her experience to that of legends like Lauryn Hill, whose treatment in the industry has been widely scrutinised. Joy's worries are emblematic of broader issues faced by women in the music industry, particularly women of colour, who often feel they need to navigate a landscape that can be unforgivingly biased.

Crookes' journey reflects more than just an artist battling anxiety; it's a testament to resilience forged through adversity. She recalls her difficult time working in hospitality, where she experienced racism first-hand. "That was one of the most racist experiences of my life," she noted, describing how patrons reacted with disdain towards her, even while she served them. Such experiences not only shaped her as a person but also fuelled her artistic expression, influencing the themes of identity and cultural representation in her work.

Born in Lambeth, South London, to a Bangladeshi mother and an Irish father, Joy's mixed heritage resonates deeply throughout her music. Her debut album "Skin" was celebrated for its soulful exploration of relationships and the cultural dynamics of her upbringing. This nuanced perspective has garnered critical acclaim and has made her one of the prominent voices for underrepresented communities in the music industry. In a statement about her creative process, Joy has previously emphasised the importance of authenticity, stating that her art is not merely about music, but also about providing representation and speaking to the challenges faced by marginalized groups.

On the horizon, Joy has announced her upcoming album, "Juniper," set for release on September 26. This highly anticipated follow-up promises to build on the successful foundation laid by "Skin," showcasing her evolution as an artist. In a recent update, she mentioned that the album will feature tracks such as "Pass The Salt" with Vince Staples and "Mathematics" with Kano, among others. The accompanying UK and European tour, which kicks off in November, further demonstrates her commitment to connecting with her audience as she continues to champion the importance of accessibility in music for minority artists.

Glamour UK's latest issue, featuring Joy alongside fellow artists Darkoo and CMAT, marks a celebration of female talent, a vision championed by the magazine’s new Head of Editorial Content, Kemi Alemoru. In her inaugural editor's letter, Alemoru expressed a commitment to amplifying a diverse range of voices that reflect the experiences of modern women. This focus aligns with Joy's mission to champion representation and authenticity in her craft.

As she navigates the complexities of the industry, Joy Crookes stands as a powerful example of resilience and artistic integrity, using her platform to address not only personal struggles but also the broader issues of racism and representation in the music world. Her journey underscores the need for ongoing conversations about diversity and equity in creative spaces, as she continues to inspire a new generation of artists.

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Source: Noah Wire Services