Few individuals embody the spirit of unwavering determination better than Sierra Jean. A child prodigy turned seasoned professional, Jean’s journey through the music industry has been one dotted with remarkable highs and formidable lows. Yet through it all, she has not only persisted but has emerged stronger than ever, a testament to her unparalleled dedication and resilience.
Born in Long Island, New York, in 2001, Jean’s love for music started early on. By the age of eight, she was already on stage, moving audiences with classic rock hits by bands such as Journey and Bon Jovi. Her love for rock music, implanted in her early childhood, has profoundly influenced Jean’s sound.
Her rise to stardom was meteoric. At just eleven, she was discovered on YouTube and began visiting Los Angeles to write, record demos, and pitch to major label executives. By the tender age of fourteen, she was a seasoned professional, boasting multiple releases and an impressive following of over two hundred thousand across various social media platforms by 2016.
However, fate threw a curveball. Jean fell ill with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a chronic illness causing dizziness and, in extreme cases, syncope. As a performer, this diagnosis raised daunting questions about her future. However, Jean’s indomitable spirit ensured she never wavered from her path. Her passion for music remained a beacon of hope amid the uncertainty, and she continued playing her guitar whenever her health allowed.
Despite her illness, Jean’s determination stretched far beyond her music. She enrolled in Belmont University–Billboard’s Top Music Business School in the country–and started studying music business production. This step wasn’t just about expanding her knowledge; it was about taking control of her career. Being a child performer, she had often struggled to voice her opinion about her sound. This decision marked her ascent into a new era of her musical journey.
To celebrate the tenth anniversary of her first single, Jean re-recorded “all that I want”. This song was a gesture of gratitude towards her loyal fans and a doorway for newcomers to experience her authentic Pop Rock sound. The song was recorded in Nashville, at the Grammy-nominated Welcome to 1979, with musicians she came to know during her time at Belmont.
However, her lyrics weren’t just shaped by her musical influences like Jon Bellion, but were a reflection of her personal journey. “All that I want” is a breakup anthem, inspired by a relationship that ended after her partner failed to support her passion.
Jean’s story is a demonstration of unwavering determination. After a hiatus of seven long years due to POTS, she is now healthier and more prepared to return to the spotlight. Not just that, her time off led her to uncover contractual discrepancies. Jean discovered she didn’t own the master recordings from her early days and was unable to make a living from her music. This experience taught her the importance of both talent and shrewdness in the industry, reinforcing her belief that everything happens for a reason.
Sierra Jean is not just a testament to determination in the face of adversity; she embodies the spirit of a true artist who has embraced every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Follow her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/sierrajeanmusic and experience her music on Spotify at open.spotify.com/artist/6GcH42mEkAgA5Lavjn8v7U?si=ifvJEv8iQ3SbugkOK–CVQ for a glimpse into the passion, dedication, and talent that sets Sierra Jean apart.
