Jordan Olympus On the Making Of “Whine (Kompa Remix)”
Can you share any interesting or unique stories or perspectives in "Whine (Kompa Remix)?"
"Whine" has always been about celebrating island cultures and how music unites them. But I felt the journey wasn’t complete without paying tribute to a local island genre like Kompa, which has shaped so many island sounds yet remains underrepresented. This remix is my way of bridging pop, R&B, and traditional Caribbean rhythms, bringing more visibility to island sounds.
Was there any challenge that you encountered while making the track?
The biggest challenge was blending Kompa’s organic groove with my pop and R&B style. I wanted to respect that genre while keeping "Whine’s" identity intact. That’s why I worked with producers from Haiti and Réunion Island to capture the right balance."
How do you feel "Whine (Kompa Remix)" represents your artistic identity?
Growing up with diverse influences, I sometimes felt like I had to choose between them. But I realized that my identity is a fusion of both worlds. “Whine” was the first step in embracing that, and the Kompa Remix takes it even further. My music is about blending cultures and pushing the boundaries of what Island Pop can be.
How did you get started in music, and what inspired you to become a singer-songwriter?
Music has always been my way to express myself. I grew up surrounded by African sounds and pop/R&B, which naturally shaped my sound. Songwriting allowed me to bring these influences together and create something truly personal, something that reflects both where I come from and where I want to go.
How do you balance crafting relatable stories with maintaining your unique voice as a songwriter?
I start with my own experiences, but I always write with layers. First, I focus on the emotions, because feelings are universal, even if the story is personal. Then, I shape the sound by blending my influences, making sure the melodies and rhythms feel both unique and familiar. It’s about capturing something real while leaving space for listeners to connect in their own way.
