Joanna Levesque, known as “JoJo,” skyrocketed to fame at the age of 13. Now, two decades later, she has written a memoir revealing that her hit song “Leave (Get Out)” was initially foreign to her. In fact, she cried when her label told her they wanted to make it her first single.
As a sixth-grader, the lyrics about heartbreak were not relatable to her at all, and the pop sound of the song was far from her usual R&B and hip-hop comfort zone.
Despite her initial confusion, “Leave (Get Out)” went on to top the Billboard charts, making Levesque the youngest solo artist ever to have a No. 1 hit. She eventually grew to love the song, but the process was challenging.
In her new memoir, “Over the Influence,” Levesque delves into the unpredictable and tumultuous nature of her young pop stardom. Hits like “Too Little Too Late” and “Baby It’s You” defined her formative years, spent in recording studios and tour buses.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including a legal battle with her former record label, Levesque remains grateful for the experiences that shaped her. She also acknowledges the changing landscape of the music industry, which now gives artists more freedom and control over their work.
Looking ahead, she finds it refreshing to see a new generation of young women in music defying the standards of the past. Artists like Chappell Roan and Billie Eilish inspire her with their independent and authentic approach to their craft.
Through her memoir, Levesque hopes to inspire others to carve their own paths and reclaim ownership over their lives. Her journey serves as a testament to resilience and the power of staying true to oneself in a rapidly changing industry.
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