Canadian acting veteran and newcomer to the music scene, Jordy Benattar, has a distinct sound hard to compare with anything else you’ve heard before. Light, sweet, nostalgic yet timeless, Jordy’s music influences, informs, and inspires.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Jordy about her latest project, motivations, challenges and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.

I was born and raised in Toronto.

I have a folky voice but my music is indie pop. I write what I see and feel. I write stories about everything from past relationships, to challenges facing my generation, to memories I wish I could relive. My music is reflective and feels a bit nostalgic, in a happy way.

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

I grew up as an actress in film and television and always itched to step into the music space. I started songwriting when I was nine years old and it quickly became a part of my being. What motivates me to keep going is the perennial need to express myself in a creative capacity. I am now in the middle of a combined law and business degree, and music has been my sanctuary throughout. It’s funny, though, because until recently, most of my friends didn’t know that I sing. Surprise!

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

Out of the Blue has a different vibe than anything I’ve ever written before. It’s the most ‘pop’ I’ve been on the spectrum. My goal with this song was two-fold: (1) to challenge myself to experiment with a different sound, and (2) to change the way people think about dating as a game and bring back the spontaneity that comes with wearing your heart on your sleeve.

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?

Technology has torn down what were once insurmountable barriers to entering the music industry and growing as an artist within it. I have collaborated with producers in New York and Miami via FaceTime, and I now use social media and online distribution platforms to share my music with people around the world.

One of the challenges I face is technology itself! I’m still learning how to use electronic and digital instruments to produce, edit and remix.

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

To discover more music, check out my SoundCloud. To connect with me, Instagram. Say hi any time!