Jo O’Meara FAULT Magazine Covershoot and Interview

Whether in a group or solo, Jo O’Meara’s singing talent is undeniable and she certainly lets it show on her new record ‘With Love’. The record also sees Jo displaying her songwriting talents, as she converts multiple lived experiences onto the page and provides an insight into her more personal journey. We caught up with Jo to discuss her musical journey, the record and of course, her FAULTs.

‘On The Surface’ explores the bottling up of emotions, is this something you have have battled with on your musical journey?

Yeah I think so ? I’ve never been great at opening up to how I feel deep down but as I have got older, I have learnt how important it is.

As someone who has been in the music industry for so many years, is it still daunting in the run up to the release of new music?

It’s really daunting and scary! But it’s also really exciting , I just feel so lucky to be able to do what I love and to be releasing new music…it’s what I’ve dreamed of ! 

‘Lay Your Hurt On Me’ is a very emotional track with a heartbreaking backstory, what were you feeling when you first heard the finished song back?

This was a tough song to write as we all knew deep down Daniel wasn’t going to get better, but there was always the hope of a miracle.  Hearing the song back was very emotional,  I’m sad I never played it to him before he passed but he heard it as he was walked in on his final journey and that was both heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time.

An acoustic version of pop classic ‘Don’t Stop Movin’ appears on the album, is it ever difficult for your fans to separate the artist you are today to the artist and projects they remember you from earlier in your career?

I think the fans will always know me as “Jo from S Club 7” and I’m ok with that….I’m lucky to be known at all ! The solo music is just as important to me and the fans are so supportive of what I’m doing.

What would you say was the most challenging aspect of creating this album?

I think the challenging thing was the Corona Virus ! It held us up quite a lot. As soon as the first lockdown was lifted the race was on to get everything done and written. Better late then never though!  I am defo not complaining as I’m really happy with how the album came out.

When you look back on your musical journey, what’s been the hardest hurdle you’ve had to overcome?

Probably not opening up to how I’m feeling. I wish I had spoken to someone and got things off my chest, instead of bottling things away and leaving them there! 

If you could go back to the start of your career and leave yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?

Take in every achievement you make and embrace it…and give yourself some me time! 

 What’s one key message you’re trying to convey with this album?

To be happy and take chances. Follow your dreams and be the best version of yourself you can. 

What’s one question no journalist has ever asked you, but is something you’ve always wanted to say/ discuss?

Are you Happy ….?  And the answer would be…. I’m probably the happiest and most content I have ever been. I’m following my dreams and doing my best to be a better person in every aspect of my life! 

What’s one question you wish journalists would stop asking you?

Ha Ha, it would probably be …..is there gonna be another s club reunion? And what does the S stand for in S club?!

What is your FAULT?

Not allowing people in and putting on a front ! But I’m not like that really ….I’m a lot more gentle and loving than people realise.