The Kids Are Alright
Emerging artist NYC based singer-songwriter Jess Yaffa
Jess Yaffa is gaining recognition for her emotionally charged lyrics, which blend raw storytelling with a dash of polished production.
Her debut album, Thoughts That Keep Me Up at Night, released on April 4, 2025, showcases her commitment to authentic storytelling. Collaborating with Grammy-winning producer Scott Jacoby, known for his work with Coldplay and John Legend, Yaffa delivers a collection of songs that are both polished and deeply personal.
Drawing from life’s experiences, songs like "In The Key of Chaos," exemplify her ability to transform personal experiences into relatable anthems. Written during a moment of anxiety on a flight, the song channels vulnerability into a powerful, rebellious track.
Yaffa's single, "Just for One Night," blends powerful vocals with catchy pop-rock hooks, receiving praise for capturing "pop contagion in rock’s more authentic and energetic form."
The track draws comparisons to Joan Jett's Blackhearts and The Primitives, which is on point even if I hear a cross between Taylor Swift and Shelby Lynne (circa I Am Shelby Lynne).
Beyond her music, Yaffa emphasizes the importance of sharing real experiences. She believes that "our real experiences and stories are more powerful than anything that could be made up—my role is to share them so we can hear, feel, and relate". This philosophy permeates her work, making her a fresh and compelling voice in the modern music scene.
Jess has a clear artistic vision for herself and looks forward to continuing to connect with audiences through her honest and heartfelt music.
At 23 years old, Yaffa’s lyrics certainly resonated with this Gen X’er, and I’m looking forward to watching and hearing Jess Yaffa grow into her already transcendent talent.
Thoughts That Keep Me Up at Night is available to stream wherever you stream your favorite music.
Here’s our conversation with Jess Yaffa:
