Feature: J0VANNA Decodes “Aphrodite”
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind "Aphrodite" and the story it tells?
When I wrote “Aphrodite,” I was inspired by my determination not to allow social media to dictate how I view myself and my body image. There is a certain self-sabotaging aspect to social media that can push people into going to extremes to fit certain ideals of what a perfect body image should look like. It’s kinda wild how social media and society make achieving unrealistic standards seem so easy—like, “Lose weight in 60 days,” or “Take these supplements for bigger assets,” or “Wear these waistbands for a smaller waist.” It’s so damaging to mental health and self-image.
This song is a reminder to me that I’m perfect just the way I am. I think about women back in ancient history, even in mythology—Aphrodite was considered the most beautiful goddess, and her beauty wasn’t about being thin. She had a plump, full body and thick thighs, and yet a symbol of beauty. It’s time we as a society stop chasing impossible standards and start embracing our own beauty.
Were there any challenges or breakthrough moments during the songwriting process for this song?
My biggest challenge was making this song stand out from my prior releases. I didn’t want it to be super “belty” (because, you know, I love belting), but I wanted the sound to feel more soulful, dreamy, and lush. Sometimes, less really is more. I focused on keeping the vocals soulful while letting the lyrics take center stage. My goal was to create something that brings out feelings of inspiration and worthiness when you listen to it.
How did you work with the producer or engineers to bring your vision for "Aphrodite" to life?
I worked with my producer by bringing him a chord progression, my lyrics, and examples of sounds I wanted my song to resemble. From there, he worked his magic, and everything I envisioned for my song just came to life.
How has your studying at Berklee College of Music made an impact on your music career?
Studying at Berklee made a huge impact on my music career by teaching me everything I need to know to take my song from A to Z. I majored in music business and so I have knowledge on various topics ranging from copyright, to publishing to marketing my music. I’m so grateful for having the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the music business because breaking through isn’t easy, but with the right strategies, networking, and connections, it’s possible to get your music acknowledged and make a living from it.
How do you hope your music resonates with your audience? What message or feeling do you aim to convey through your vocals?
I hope my music resonates with people on a deep, personal level. I want them to feel seen and understood, like the songs are speaking directly to their own experiences. Through my vocals, I aim to convey emotions that inspire self-love, confidence, and empowerment. Whether it’s about navigating challenges or celebrating one's worth, I want listeners to walk away feeling uplifted and connected—not just to the music but to themselves.
