After supporting roles with such acts as Lenny Kravitz, Nile Rogers, Stevie Van Zandt and others, vocalist Jessie Wagner took to writing her first standalone record. After signing a record deal in January of 2020, Wagner was set to release her album and finally tour from center stage. This excitement was only halted by the tragic effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In October of 2020, I had the opportunity to converse with Jessie regarding her emergence into the industry, the pandemic, and especially her debut album.
“Shoes Droppin” was created in the midst of this worldwide panic, yet the album shows licks of Wagner’s personality and showcases her experience in music.
On this album, Wagner was inspired by the artists she sang with, especially Stevie Van Zandt and was excited to hear my comparison of her music up to that of Tedeschi Trucks Band.
The album was produced by drummer Dave Diamond (Bob Weir, Derek Trucks) and was written with help from guitarist Sherrod Barnes (Beyonce, Whitney Houston, Queen Latifah).
For now, Jessie performs in the limited, socially distanced settings she is able to, and waits for her turn on the main stage.
Be sure to listen to Wagner’s debut album, featuring songs “Over and Over,” “Passin Me By,” and “End of Time.” You can check these out on Spotify and Apple Music.