who enjoys wearing lipstick but is viewed by bystanders as an alien due to his unusual behavior, depicts the idea that you are only as real as you allow yourself to be. “While this song talks about a little boy who enjoys wearing lipstick and was inspired by a transgender child, it serves a greater message. In a sense, Cameron is a song about me at a time in my life when I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. It’s about looking in the mirror and feeling like you don’t belong. It’s about embracing yourself, not letting people define you, and defining yourself,” explained Jillette. Her use of strong ballads and heartfelt messages shared through her powerful lyrics undeniably sets her apart from other musicians alike while positively impacting listeners. Drawing the attention of Wind-Up Records with her song Cameron, Jillette Johnson signed a record deal in the early part of 2012. Following her record deal, the song was featured on her five-track EP, Whiskey & Frosting, that released in 2012. Jillette released her debut
You’re not an alien, Cameron album, Water in a Whale, on Wind-Up Records this past June, which ranked in the top 12 on the iTunes Pop Charts following its debut. She was also given the opportunity to tour with American Idol winner Kris Allen on his Out Alive tour. Jillette also had the opportunity to embark on another tour with Satellite over the summer. “Going out on tour has been incredible. I really learned a lot from the guys, especially how to manage things while being out on the road,” expressed Jillette. While this year has provided the talented singer/songwriter with opportunities to get a foot in the door, she’s already in the process of accomplishing new goals. Like any artist, every journey experiences some failures, it’s how you choose to react to those failures that defines who you are or where you’re going. “Accept your failures, be happy for them and don’t hold grudges,” she advises. Jillette’s optimistic mindset, fearless attitude and dedication will continue to fuel her dreams. 18 \\ jillette johnson