It can be difficult to build up clout as an independent artist, but it sure does help when you’ve got your own hashtag and a squad of fans dropping it on the daily! Ever since Jessica Meuse made it to the Top 4 Spot on American Idol’s 13th season, her faithful fan base has been tirelessly repping for the country singer with the hashtag #MuseMafia. If you’re like me, that’s probably where you first heard this soulful singer with that infectious southern twang.“I’ll either be a broke musician or a successful one. I just want to make my music.” -Jessica Meuse. Since her time on Idol, Miss Meuse has released a music video for “Love Her Better,” and toured across the country. Despite her hectic performance schedule, the Idol finalist spared some time to talk with youbloom about her roots as a country singer and what new stuff she has been cooking up. Jessica Meuse on Touring Talking Points: Living on the road, Playing the Maltese Islands, and getting pampered on American Idol. http://www.youbloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Tour-JM-Final.mp3 On her Roots Talking Points: Stage-side meltdowns…they happen, and Bringing your real self into your music despite the haters. http://www.youbloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Backstory-JM-Final.mp3 The Writing Process Talking Points: Finding inspiration for music in daily life. http://www.youbloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Influences-Writing-Process-JM-Final.mp3 Jessica Meuse – “Love Her Better” Official Music Video Recorded on The Maltese https://www.youtube.com/watchv=GEWyCooWYo Best Show Ever Played & youbloom Talking Points: Playing the Viper Room in LA, Shout out to the Muse Mafia, youbloom, and the unfortunate lack of Irish pubs in Texas. http://www.youbloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Best-Show-Youbloom-JM-Final.mp3 Going Forward and Giving Advice Talking Points: 2018 Album release, Recording at Capitol Records, and what a Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks’ baby would sound like (Spoiler, it’s Jess!). http://www.youbloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/New-Album-Advice-JM-Final.mp3 You can keep track of what Jessica Meuse is up to by following her on twitter @JessMeuse, instagram, or her official website. Robert Loustaunau is a content writer for youbloom and is a member of the social media team there. He is an avid music maker and listener. He enjoys the simple things in life: coffee, a good book, and quality time with his lovely girlfriend.