Singer/Songwriter Silent St. j perfectly marries alternative folk and soul. She graciously creates an emotional resonance with her music and has the ability to enchant her listeners. With honest and captivating lyrics and soothing vocals, Silent St. j sparks a sense of wonder in the hearts of any audience, taking them on a journey through the liminal spaces of her mind.
Name:
Silent St. j (Lajla Jean-Francois)
Genre:
Alternative Folk, Indie Folk, Singer/Songwriter
Founded:
I first started sharing my songs in 2016 at local open mics. Since then, I’ve been performing live here and there around Vancouver
Latest Single:
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
I went through many different phases with music growing. Starting with Janet Jackson and Brandy to the Spice Girls and Destiny’s Child. I had my Beyonce phase followed by my extremely obsessive Hilary Duff, Jonas Brothers, and Demi Lovato phase. I have no idea how, but it somehow ended up leading me to make the music I create today!
Favourite musician now:
I have WAY too many favourite artists and bands, so here are 5 I’ve listened to in the past 24 hours. The Paper Kites, Novo Amor, Bon Iver, Daughter, Beach House, and Radiohead.
Guilty pleasure song:
I don’t really have any guilty pleasure songs because if I like something, then I’m just going to enjoy it regardless of the judgment. However, the first thing that does comes to mind, that would make me think twice if someone passed me the aux would be The Berenstain Bears Theme song. I’d still play it, but there would be a slight hesitation.
Live show ritual:
One thing I do at all my live shows is, for one song I’ll ask the audience to close their eyes. It’s a really special moment that has become a staple of my shows. Something you have to be there to experience!
Favourite local musician:
There’s so much talent floating around in this city, so naming one is just not possible. So are a few to check out. Hollow Twin, Tissa Rahim, Rahael, Alexandria Maillot, Sam Lynch, Desiree Dawson, Matt Storm, Ivan Hartle, Cain Price, and Dawson Grool just to name a bunch.
EP or LP?
I’m a big fan of long form media, so LP all the way!!!
Early bird or night owl?
My name literally means night, so I’m definitely nocturnal!
Road or studio?
I haven’t been on tour just yet so I’m just going to sub “road” for “live” and go for live! As nervous as I get playing live, I absolutely love playing live shows.
Any shows or albums coming up?
I’m currently finishing up my first album! So be on the lookout for that in 2023!
Where can we follow you?
Best way to keep up with what I’m getting up to is my Instagram. I’ll post about any upcoming shows and other fun stuff I’m getting up to.
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Rapid Fire Vancouver Qs
Favourite local restaurant:
YOLKS! My favourite brunch in town! It’s my happy place!
Favourite street in your city:
There’s a street in East Van called Woodland Dr. and sole reason it’s my favourite street is because The Paper Kite have an EP also call Woodland and I’ve always wanted to walk Woodland Dr. while listening The Paper Kites Woodland EP. One of these days I’ll actually do it!
Favourite park in your city:
My favourite park is Concord Community Park. That’s where I roller skate in summer! I like that pavement! That’s some smooth pavement!
Favourite music venue in your city:
I love the Fox Cabaret! I’ve been lucky enough to play there twice!!
Favourite music store in your city:
Audiopile & Soulessentials Records on Commercial are my favourite places to get vinyls!!
