"The Year I Lived as You," Julianna Joy’s latest single is moody, electric, and drenched in emotional intensity. It blends dark synthpop with piercing lyricism that cuts straight to the bone.

What started as an unstructured poem in the summer of 2023 quickly transformed into a bold, genre-bending track—one that feels like a late-night confession set to a pulsating, cinematic soundscape.

Think the brutal honesty of Charli XCX’s “BRAT” mixed with the heavy, brooding atmosphere of Taylor Swift’s “reputation”. And then throw in some glimmering 1975-style guitars for good measure.

If you haven’t heard of Julianna Joy, you’re missing out. She’s been quietly making waves since her self-released 2020 EP “Cherries” (which has racked up 6 million+ streams). That project caught the attention of pop songwriting legend Teddy Geiger, who helped produce her follow-up, "Garden of Eden"—a project featuring industry heavyweights like John Ryan and Ariza.

Her 2023 release “Unhappy” saw her working with Dee Lilly (Big Sean, Chlo the God, grouptherapy.) landing her spots on Deezer’s “Brand New Pop” and Tidal’s “Pop Artist” playlists.

"The Year I Lived as You" has got a sharp-edged honesty, an infectious synth-driven beat, and a chorus that crashes in like a tidal wave. Julianna Joy lays it all bare, delivering a performance that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

If you’re into darkpop with a bite, this song is non-negotiable. Turn it up, let it sink in, and get ready to see Julianna Joy step into the spotlight she more than deserves.

We Spoke To Julianna about her journey so far. Read the exclusive interview below.

Do you have an interesting moment or story from your early life that has had a significant impact on your journey into music? 

Julianna: I was born with hyperextensive joints, the worst being my knees, meaning that they would constantly dislocated from under me. It would happen at random times, during any kind of activity, including non-rigorous ones, and would prevent me from being able to walk in the worst situations. It meant I couldn't be the same kind of performer as the rest of my peers. It's had no impact on my sound or my ability to write, in fact I think being disabled forced me to spend more time sitting at a piano and getting better at my music, but it did mean that I had to work a lot harder to be able to do basic things. I got reconstruction surgery on both knees in the last 3 years and I have to work out 4/5 times a week to be able to keep myself safe and keep myself capable of doing what I love most.

Are there any artists that were influential to your musical journey? How have they inspired your sound as an artist?

Julianna: There are so many. I think the three I reference the most are Lorde, Charli XCX, and Taylor Swift. All incredible women, all incredible performers, and all pioneers of pop.

How would you describe your sound to new listeners? What do you think sets you apart?

Julianna: I always describe it as left of center pop when I introduce myself to other creatives. I think what sets me apart is the balance of electronica and indie pop. It's very synth heavy and 80s influenced but with a 90s and early 2000s approach. It's a genre blend.

What’s your creative process? Where do you normally start when it comes to writing and recording? Do the lyrics come first?

Julianna: Usually lyrics come first. I normally write lyrics and melodies and jot them down and return to them when I have a few hours to write. I used to write everyday for years, but I find that to be exhausting now. I only write when I have something I need poured out of me.

Have you had any challenges or adversities in your life that you feel have shaped you as an artist?

Julianna: Again, I think my knees are a big factor in who I am. I also faced a lot of bullying all through out my life. People hate loud mouthed women.

Are there any moments or achievement from your career so far that you’re most proud of?

Julianna: I think being featured on the Zane Lowe show was pretty incredible. Also working with Teddy Geiger and John Ryan was incredible. It's not everyday you get to write with legends who wrote some of the biggest songs of your childhood.

Which do you prefer, the creative process or live performance? Or do you enjoy both equally?

Julianna: They're two different passions for me. I'm a theatre kid. Becoming the performer on stage and writing the music the performer sings are two different processes for me. In that aspect, I love them both equally. They are the sun and the moon.

Do you as an artist require fans to fully understand your message in each song or do you encourage subjective interpretation from every listener?

Julianna: I want them to take my words and annotate them like they're in an english class. Most of what I say isn't straightforward. I think it's all up for interpretation.

Does the political landscape have an impact on your music, or do you keep your personal opinions separate from your work as an artist?

Julianna: I believe all art is political. Your view and voice as a writer is impacted by your life and your life is impacted directly by politics. There's hunger and passion in art you can't fake and simply put: Fascists can't make art.

What are your future plans? Any new songs/projects on the horizon?

Julianna: Expect new music from me in all the warm months this year.

"The Year I Lived as You" is available now on all major streaming platforms

Listen to Julianna Joy and other similar artists on our Spotify Playlist ‘New Music Spotlight - Indie & Alternative’

Exclusive Interview: Julianna Joy

* (Asterisk) - Simeon Kirkegaard

"Careless Whisper" - Juliet Lyons & Chris Wirsig