Oslo’s Rising Star: JOA and the Sound of “Previous Problems”

In 2024, the music scene welcomed a fresh voice from Oslo: JOA, a singer-songwriter whose contemporary bedroom pop resonated wiht listeners navigating the complexities of adolescence. Her debut EP, Previous Problems, is a candid exploration of youthful struggles, encompassing friendship dynamics, heartbreak, self-doubt, and anxiety. What sets JOA apart is her willingness to lay bare her vulnerabilities, offering listeners a glimpse into her personal journey through pain and growth.

For American listeners, JOA’s themes of adolescent struggle will likely hit home. The pressures on today’s teens, from social media anxieties to navigating complex relationships, are well-documented.according to a 2023 Pew research Center study, approximately 70% of teenagers in the U.S. report that anxiety and depression are major problems among their peers. JOA’s music taps into this zeitgeist, offering a soundtrack for those grappling with similar issues. Artists like olivia Rodrigo and Billie Eilish have paved the way for this kind of raw honesty in pop music, and JOA is poised to join their ranks.

A Track-by-track Examination of Teenage Life

Previous Problems isn’t just an EP; it’s a collection of stories drawn from JOA’s teenage years, penned between the ages of 16 and 19. Each track offers a unique perspective on the trials and tribulations of growing up.

• “Golden Years”: Written during the isolating days of the pandemic, this track captures a yearning vulnerability that many listeners can relate to, especially those who experienced the disruption and uncertainty of that period. It speaks to the longing for connection and stability in a world turned upside down.
• “A Little Kinder”: A moment of raw self-reflection, showcasing JOA’s ability to transform deep emotions into compelling melodies. It serves as a reminder of the importance of self-compassion and empathy, notably during formative years.
• “Let It Go”: The led single, is described as a raw acoustic piece where JOA is “coming to terms with a past love and the swirling emotions that are left scattered in her head.” The lyrics, poignant and relatable, capture the struggle of moving on: “Tell myself it’s for the better to let go, I know/And time will show/if I am better off alone/When you’re gone are you even gonna miss me? One day I’ll look back at you like history.“
• “I don’t wont nobody but your body”: This heartfelt track delves into the undeniable yearning for a special someone, coupled with the insecurities and difficulties of letting go. Its raw honesty makes it particularly resonant for anyone who has experienced the push and pull of young love.
• “Previous Problems”: The title track, “Previous Problems,” serves as the heart of the EP. JOA perfectly captures the push and pull of young love. “We don’t care about letting go, man / Let’s forget our previous problems,” JOA sings over shimmering synths and a pulsing beat.”It’s about sweeping things under the rug because facing them feels too overwhelming—but deep down,knowing you can’t avoid them forever.” This resonates with the common tendency, especially among younger individuals, to avoid conflict in relationships, even when addressing the issues is crucial for long-term health and stability. Experts in relationship counseling, like dr. phil McGraw, often emphasize the importance of direct communication and conflict resolution skills to avoid accumulating “previous problems.”

JOA’s Perspective: Turning Overwhelming Emotions into Tangible Art

JOA offers further insight into the inspiration behind the EP’s title track: “I remember writng the words Previous Problems in my notebook as a reminder to face the difficult emotions I was going through,” JOA shares. “It was my way of taking back control—turning things that felt overwhelming into something tangible. Now, at 20, I’m ready to leave those struggles in the past.”

This sentiment speaks to the power of art as a coping mechanism. For many young peopel, creative expression provides an outlet for processing difficult emotions and experiences. In the U.S., programs like the National Endowment for the Arts support initiatives that promote arts education and creative expression as tools for mental health and well-being.

Listen to ‘Previous Problems’

Experience the EP that’s capturing the hearts of listeners with its honest portrayal of adolescence. Listen to Previous Problems on all DSPs here.

The Broader Context: Bedroom Pop and Mental Health

JOA’s music aligns with the broader trend of “bedroom pop,” a genre characterized by its DIY aesthetic, intimate lyrics, and focus on themes of mental health and emotional vulnerability. Artists like Clairo and beabadoobee have found mainstream success with this sound,demonstrating the growing demand for authentic and relatable music that speaks to the experiences of young people.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge potential counterarguments. Some critics argue that bedroom pop can romanticize mental illness or oversimplify complex issues. It’s essential for listeners to approach this music with a critical ear, recognizing that while it can provide comfort and validation, it should not be a substitute for professional mental health care. Resources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer support and guidance for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.

Connect with JOA

Stay up-to-date with JOA’s latest releases and connect with her on social media:

• YouTube
• Spotify
• Facebook
• TikTok
• Web
• Instagram