Beloved singer-songwriter JJ Heller is expressing profound gratitude for the extraordinary ways her music continues to accompany listeners through life's most intimate and ordinary moments. Reflecting on recent streaming milestones, Heller says the numbers "can't quite convey the special connection between an artist and their listeners."
"When we're in the studio working on new songs, I often think of moms nursing their babies in the middle of the night, or little ones drifting off to sleep as my songs wash over them," Heller shares. "I think of families doing chores, getting ready for celebrations, or decorating for Christmas. I think of long, lonely car rides where my music brings comfort or keeps a driver company."
For Heller, music remains a sacred form of companionship-one that communicates, again and again, that "we aren't alone." The artist admits it's difficult to fathom her catalog being streamed the equivalent of 288 years of continuous listening, but she says the true impact lies not in statistics, but in shared human experience. "I'm forever grateful to be in a position where something I helped create can bring even a little hope and peace into the lives of you and your loved ones."
Heller also acknowledges the shifting landscape of the creative world as AI-generated content surges into the industry. "We're in an uncertain time as AI artists and AI content begins to flood the market," she notes. "I don't know exactly where the music industry is going, but I do know that what I've made-with the help of so many gifted musicians-is deeply meaningful to us and to you."
Despite the uncertainty, Heller is looking forward with excitement. She has been crafting new material for her beloved I Dream of You series, calling it some of her favorite work yet. "I'm so excited for you to hear it in the coming months," she says. "Here's to many more days filled with music!"
Heller closes with heartfelt thanks: "Thank you for listening. Thank you for supporting independent music."
