Jenny Lewis on the fallout of Ryan Adams: “A conversation is occurring about power dynamics in music”

"They're my songs and this is a piece of the puzzle of my entire career"

Jenny Lewis has opened up about the journey of her new album ‘On The Line’, and the fallout of recent allegations made against Ryan Adams.

Watch our full video interview with Lewis above

Lewis’ fourth solo album arrives on March 22 and features an all-star “backing band” made up of Beck, Benmont Tench, Don Was, Jim Keltner and Ringo Starr. The album also features Adams, who co-produced the record too.

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Last month, Adams denied accusations made by several women of sexual misconduct, manipulation and abuse. Phoebe Bridgers and Adams’ ex-wife Mandy Moore were among those who spoke out against him. Lewis then issued a statement on how she was “deeply troubled” by the allegations but “stood in solidarity” with the accusers.

Asked if she wrestled with the idea of releasing an album that featured Adams’ contributions, Lewis told NME that the music was hers to own.

“It’s a tough situation and I felt a lot of things,” Lewis told NME. “It has certainly been on my mind, but ultimately it’s my record. They’re my songs and this is a piece of the puzzle of my entire career.

“It sucks, man. It’s really upsetting, but I do think that a conversation is occurring about power dynamics in music. I think it’s positive that we’re having a dialogue, so let’s have the dialogue openly and figure out a solution. Let’s identify what isn’t cool.”

As for what she looks for in a collaborator when it comes to teaming up with the likes of Beck and Ringo Starr, Lewis said that she simply wants to work with “someone who knows more than I do about stuff”.

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“Beck is extremely thorough, and I don’t have to worry if he hasn’t thought of it already, because he thinks of everything,” Lewis added. “He’s very meticulous, but also very vibe-y. I don’t move around music in the same way. He really knows his shit but he doesn’t force it on you.”

Watch our full interview with Lewis at the top of the page. 

Jenny Lewis releases ‘On The Line’ on Friday March 22. Her upcoming UK tour dates are below. Tickets are available here.

24 July Brighton, UK – Komedia
25 July London, UK – Electric Ballroom
27 July Edinburgh, UK – Queens Hall
28 July Manchester, UK – RNCM Concert Hall

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