Jessica Lea Mayfield

Jessica Lea Mayfield

Jessica Lea Mayfield is an American singer-songwriter from Kent, Ohio, born in 1989. Her work is tagged to folk, folk rock, indie folk and singer-songwriter, and her early material is acoustic in character.

Early life and first recordings

She first performs with her family bluegrass band One Way Rider at the age of 8. At 15, she records her first EP, White Lies, in her brother’s bedroom and prints only 100 copies. One of those copies reaches Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, leading to an introduction and a studio collaboration.

Collaboration with Dan Auerbach

Mayfield appears as a featured vocalist on The Black Keys’ Attack and Release. Auerbach then produces her first studio album, which is recorded over two years in his home studio. Her debut also includes contributions from her brother, bassist David Mayfield, and cameo backing vocals from Dr. Dog’s Scott McMicken and Frank McElroy.

Style and related work

Her music draws on country, folk and soul, and the collaborative project With Blasphemy, So Heartfelt is associated with that mix of influences. Her voice is described as a notable part of the recordings, alongside edgy lyrics and melodies.