From penning lyrics in her phone to headlining shows across the world, singer-songwriter Jenna Raine has always been the type of artist who leads with heart. With the upcoming release of her EP Only Started Growing, the singer is peeling back the layers to reveal a more vulnerable, honest side of herself—and listeners are loving every second of it.

Image Credit: Cameron Driskill

In an exclusive interview with The Teen Magazine, Jenna opened up about her growth as an artist, the inspiration behind her music, and what’s next for her in this exciting new chapter.

Becoming the Artist She’s Meant to Be

Jenna Raine’s musical journey has always been about staying true to herself. While the industry is constantly shifting, she’s discovered that the best way to stand out is by leaning into her own voice.

“The main thing I’ve taken away from these past few years is how important it is to be the artist you want to be,” she says. “Even though the world is at a different spot musically, I still need to be ambitious and write the music I want to write. That’s how you stand out!”

That ambition is woven into Only Started Growing, a record that reflects not only sonic change but also emotional depth. Jenna is no longer afraid to share the sad, messy moments—ones she once hesitated to make public at one point.

“There are a few songs on this EP that I was hesitant to release,” she admits. “But I realized it was just as important to share the sad parts of my life. Nobody’s perfect, and I can’t be happy all of the time!”

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Heartfelt Songs and Real-Life Inspiration

Her single “Good Grief” is a example of the new, emotionally honest direction she’s exploring. Written for a close friend who was struggling after a breakup, the song captures pain and the quiet strength that comes with healing.

“I wrote ‘Good Grief’ for one of my best friends,” Jenna shares. “She was going through an extremely hard season after a breakup. I wanted to write a song to encourage her and remind her that everything was going to be okay.”

That same rawness is felt throughout the EP, including on tracks like “Hitch Hiking,” where Jenna’s metaphorical writing shines.

And it all starts with a quick thought saved in her phone.

“I normally write down random ideas or lyrics on my phone throughout the day,” she says. “My favorite songs are filled with lyrics that sound like a normal conversation.”

Finding Her Sound (And Herself)

Image Credit:@itsjennaraine on Instagram

In addition to opening up emotionally, Jenna has also found a fresh, nostalgic sound that pays tribute to her early influences. Inspired by bands like The Script and The Fray, Only Started Growing blends 2000s pop-rock energy with her signature introspection.

“We referenced The Script and The Fray in a song called ‘Who Am I,’” Jenna reveals. “It’s definitely leaning towards where I want to go sonically.”

The result? An EP that feels both familiar and new—perfect for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Looking back, Jenna reflects on the growth that’s gotten her here. When asked what advice she’d give to her younger self, her answer is clear:

“Your opinion is the most important,” she says. “Trust your instinct. It’s easy to forget that you know best when certain peers are telling you otherwise.”

What’s Next for Jenna Raine

Image Credit:@itsjennaraine on Instagram

With the April 25 release just around the corner, Jenna is gearing up for an unforgettable summer. New music, headline shows, and even bigger projects are already underway.

“I have headline shows this June!” she shares. “I’m also currently working on writing for a bigger project. It’s album mode!”

Through it all, she’s staying grounded in her values—both musically and personally.

Bonus Q&A with Jenna Raine

Image Credit: @itsjennaraine on Instagram

If Good Grief were a movie scene, what would it be?“Probably an old 2000s rom-com like The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. Maybe a scene where all the girls are back together and bonding over their summer!”

A lyric from Only Started Growing you’re proud of?“Definitely the first verse of ‘Hitch Hiking.’ My songwriter heart is very happy with the metaphorical lyrics throughout the whole record.”

Dream collab?“Noah Kahan! He inspires me a ton and I would be HONORED to sing or write with him!”

What’s on your playlist right now?“‘Sticking Around’ by Hayden Everett. Let me put you on. It’s phenomenal.”

Dream concert lineup?“Coldplay, Harry Styles, and Fleetwood Mac. Sounds like a fire lineup to me!”

Theme song for your music journey (besides your own)?“‘Unwritten’ by Natasha Bedingfield.”

Non-music growth?“My faith in the Lord! I continue to push myself to not lean on my own understanding.”

Image Credit: Cameron Driskill

Jenna Raine is growing in more ways than one—and she’s inviting us to grow with her. With a new EP that digs deep, a tour on the way, and a heart that beats for connection, Jenna’s just getting started.

Keep up with Jenna on Instagram @itsjennaraine and stream Only Started Growing everywhere on April 25.