A Quick Chat with Ava Jayde

Your new single "Games" explores some more introspective themes compared to previous tracks. Can you tell us a little about the inspiration behind the song?
My first two songs were probably more about typical teenage experiences and just figuring things out as I grow up. But Games taps into some deeper, more emotional territory. The inspiration actually came from a book I was reading. I came across the word belligerent and it just stuck with me. From there, the lyrics started to flow. I drew on my own experiences and things I’ve seen people around me go through. It ended up being a reflection on the more toxic sides of relationships.

What’s your creative process like? What inspires you to write music?
Inspiration comes from everywhere. Like with Games, sometimes it’s just a word I read that sparks something. Other times it’s based on what I’m going through or what I see happening around me. Writing is a really cathartic process for me. It feels like journaling in a way, but I get to turn those thoughts into something that sounds good. As someone who’s quite emotional, putting those feelings into music really helps me make sense of them. And with the help of my amazing producer Jayden Reid, we’re able to bring those ideas to life.

What has been the most memorable moment of your musical career so far?
Since I’m still at the start of my career, every little moment feels exciting. One of the biggest ones so far has been hearing people sing the lyrics to my songs. Knowing those words started in my bedroom and now people know them and sing them back is such a surreal feeling. I’ve also loved getting in the studio, releasing music, and just having fun creating. Playing some really cool gigs has definitely been a highlight too.

Do you have some dream artists you'd like to collaborate with? Who influences your music?
I’m definitely drawn to strong lyricists. I love artists like Taylor Swift, Gracie Abrams, and Olivia Rodrigo. There’s something really special about the way they express what so many of us are feeling in such a vulnerable way.
I’d absolutely love to collaborate with Lizzy McAlpine. Her writing style is beautiful and the chords she uses are just stunning. I’d also love the chance to write with Shawn Mendes. He seems like such a genuine person, and I feel like writing with him would be a really special experience.

What are some songs you have on rotation at the moment?
Right now I’ve been obsessed with One Thing and Messy by Lola Young. She’s incredible. I’ve also been listening to One More Cup of Coffee by Bob Dylan a lot lately. There’s something about it that just feels really timeless and raw. And since Taylor got the rights to her music back, Reputation has been on repeat again.

Do you have any upcoming gigs that our readers might be able to catch you at?
Yes! I’ll be playing at Yamba Bowls Club this Saturday, then Eat Street on the 5th and 11th of July. I’m also at the Plough Inn on the 12th, and one of my favourite spots, Dalgety Public House in Teneriffe, on the 13th. Then I’ll be at the Boathouse Tavern in Coomera on the 27th of July. There’ll probably be a few more gigs added as the month goes on, so I’ll be posting all the details on my socials.

With only 3 singles out to date, we already get the sense you're on track for a successful career in music. What else can we expect from Ava Jayde in 2025?
There’s definitely more music on the way this year. I love being in the studio with Jayden and we’ve got some new tracks in the works that I’m really excited about. I’m also planning to do more live shows, including some headline gigs and support slots. I’ll be sharing more original music and working with some amazing Aussie artists. I’m really excited for what’s ahead — 2025 is going to be a big year.