Interview with Jazz, Founder of MEEN Magazine

Driven by a deep-rooted love for music, Jazz launched MEEN Magazine just one year ago as a vibrant platform for up-and-coming and rising artists. Her vision goes beyond the music itself—she’s dedicated to uncovering the “who” and “why” behind the art, offering readers a deeper understanding of each creator’s identity, journey, and process.

From concept to execution, Jazz prioritizes creating an environment where artists feel safe to share their personal narratives and creative paths. MEEN Magazine celebrates more than the finished product—it’s about honoring the full scope of an artist’s expression and giving them the visibility, respect, and space they deserve in the industry.

In this interview, Jazz opens up about her inspiration for starting MEEN, the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in music media, and what’s next for the brand as it expands beyond Los Angeles.

Q: What inspired you to start MEEN Magazine?

Honestly, I was going through a breakup, and it really forced me to be 100% by myself and figure out what Jazz wants. I started saying yes to every opportunity, going to any event I was invited to—things I might’ve skipped before because I was so focused on another person. That’s when I realized how much I loved the business side of things and hearing artists’ stories and journeys. One day, I decided to create my own magazine. Fun fact: MEEN is actually the last four letters of my real name.

Q: What personal experiences or values shape the way you show up creatively?

Traveling. Traveling a lot helps me show up creatively. Staying in one spot for too long—or being too still—gives me creative block. I’d say travel, or even just going outside and living life, keeps me inspired.

Q. What’s it been like being a woman in this space, especially building a platform in music and media?

It’s interesting, lol. Especially when you’re not in that category of “just being an aesthetic.” Sometimes I feel like I won’t get a certain type of respect from certain people just because I’m a woman.

Q. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced while trying to grow MEEN?

Thankfully, I haven’t had too many yet. But I’d say creative block is one. Also, being on the business side of the industry—especially as a woman—you never really know who genuinely wants to work with you or what their motive is.

Q. What do you hope people take away from MEEN when they interact with it or read a feature?

Motivation. I hope people read it and feel inspired to keep going—or to start something they’ve been too scared to try.

Q. Who are some up-and-coming artists we should be paying attention to right now?

Ooh, great question—there’s so many. My top three right now are Solomon Headen, CozygirlDes, and Kayosouthside. All different styles, but all super talented.

Q. What’s on your playlist lately? What are you listening to when you’re just vibing out?Besides the typical R&B answer—because I’m such an R&B lover—I’ve been rotating a lot of house and jazz music lately.

Q. How do you stay inspired and grounded while doing so much creative and community-centered work?

Whew, that’s something I’m still figuring out. But I always remind myself that at the end of the day, this is my passion. It doesn’t feel too much like “work” to me—it excites me.

Q.What’s next for you and MEEN? Anything you’re excited about in the near future?

A lot! I’m currently finishing school to get my degree, so I’ve been juggling a lot. But I will say—expect different types of interviews, more interactive moments with artists’ supporters, and taking MEEN out of state instead of just keeping it in L.A. Just stay tuned.

Connect with Jazz & MEEN Magazine

• Instagram: @meenmagazinee

• YouTube: MEEN Magazine

Follow along to discover emerging artists, behind-the-scenes content, and fresh perspectives from the music world.