After nearly a decade away from music, singer-songwriter Taylor Janney Rovin returns with renewed confidence and creativity. We discussed her comeback single “Sweet Talkin’,” musical inspirations, and artistic rebirth.
1. “Sweet Talkin’” marks your second single after a long hiatus from music. How did it feel stepping back into the studio after nearly a decade away from singing?
It is so lovely to be finding my confidence and reengaging my creativity in my 30s, as I’m finally giving myself the freedom to just have FUN while making music! Having attended a competitive, conservatory style college program, I became overwhelmed by what other people defined as “success.” I didn’t feel as though I “fit” into the boxes many of my professors would try to squeeze me into, and I never seemed to have the same opportunities to shine as my peers. When I moved to New York after graduation, utterly broke and facing the harsh realities of adulthood, I had to focus first on survival. Working as a middle school teacher, I at times thought putting a pause on my dreams made me a “failure.” Now that I’ve had a decade to “grow up,” I realize that the journey isn’t linear – my unique life experiences have collectively gotten me here, and I am appreciative of the opportunity I now have to invest in myself as an artist. I’m learning to enjoy the process rather than try and force any particular pathway or product.
2. You’ve mentioned that “Sweet Talkin’” was inspired by the music of the late ’90s and early 2000s. What drew you to revisit that era, and how did you blend that nostalgia with a modern sound?
At this stage of my development, I’m looking back on the last times I felt JOY when singing. As a kid, I had no fear of judgement, no inhibition. Once I got to the collegiate level, there was so much pressure, I became riddled with anxiety around my voice and performance. But when I was little, I’d belt along to every song on the radio, convinced I’d be the 6th Spice Girl. I racked up the family phone bill voting for Kelly Clarkson on American Idol, saw The Chicks and Shania Twain as my first concerts – strong female vocalists of this era really shaped the way I heard and appreciated music. Now that I’m giving myself time and space to reconnect with my voice, I can’t help but look back towards the artists who really taught me to sing. With that being said, I am ultimately my own person, so while I draw inspiration from the past, I’m bringing my own flair to create my own formula.
3. The song captures that irresistible pull of someone’s charm — even when you know better. Was this written from a specific personal experience, or more as a reflection of a broader theme in your life?
“Sweet Talkin’” was definitely inspired by a specific someone, though truthfully it could apply to several of my exes. I’m happily married these days, but I had the worst taste in men in my 20s. Despite a handful of heartbreaks, I still managed to have some fun. Gives me a lot to write about at least!
4. You worked with Douglas Widick at Suite Tea Studios in Brooklyn to bring this track to life. What was that collaboration like, and how did the track evolve from your original idea to the final version we hear today?
Douglas is such a creative musician, producer, and comedian – talk about making music FUN! I’m just learning guitar, so seeing what began as three chords and a voice memo evolve into a full track was really cool to witness. He helped bring out that funky, early-aughts energy in a way I never could have imagined just strumming solo in my apartment. When I play this alone on acoustic, it might as well be a country song!
5. Overcoming a vocal injury and returning to music is a deeply personal journey. How has that experience shaped the way you approach your artistry and performance now?
There was a time in my life I thought I may never sing again. Now, each time I do, it feels like a blessing. I’ve learned to appreciate my voice as the unique gift that it is and have stopped trying to sound like everybody else. Pushing, straining, and reaching for notes far outside of my range was what hurt me – embracing the warmth, soul, and richness that I do bring to the table allows me much greater ease (both vocally and spiritually)!
6. Looking ahead, what can listeners expect next from you — any upcoming releases or performances that continue this chapter of rediscovery and growth?
I’m currently recording my next single, which is a neo-soul / rodeo themed tune. My biggest goal at the moment is to play more live shows here in NYC – be sure to give me a follow (@taylorjanneyrovin on Instagram) so you can come sing along at my next performance!
More Info: https://www.taylorjanneyrovin.com/
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