“Domino” - Jessie J

Jessie J is one of Britain’s finest pop exports in years and I like to think of her as the British version of Katy Perry—only with loads more personality and, well, talent. I say this because in may ways she has been packaged and delivered much like Katy Perry has. She possesses a similar offbeat style, though much less forced than that of Perry (let’s face it, she owns that onesie). Taking her cue from the success of Perry’s first single “I Kissed a Girl,” Jessie J has her very own pseudo-feminist anthem, “Do It Like a Dude.” And, like Perry’s “Firework,” she has own her empowerment tune—the exquisite “Who You Are.” It’s no wonder why they toured together.

Yet, unlike Perry, Jessie J is an artist. She does not simply mimic other musicians or follow trends to sell records. She is a lyricist, having penned a multitude of songs for other artists. Thankfully, she finally realized she has a superb voice infused with genuine soul. Earlier this year, she was chosen as the house artist for the VMAs where she showcased her powerhouse vocals on various covers, including Perry’s “Firework” (yes, she outdid Perry on her own damn song.)

Last week, Jessie J received the honor of performing at the VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul concert where she was in the company of greats like Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Ledisi, Chaka Khan and Erykah Badu, to name a few. Need I say more. I adore Jessie J and look for her sophomore album to feature less commercial songs and more stripped down ballads so the masses can be turned on to the beauty of her voice. Although, I really can’t deny she does execute commercial pop very, very well.