Jess Glynne on 'vulnerable' new era: "I've done a lot of work on myself"

With seven chart-topping singles to her name across a career spanning almost a decade, Jess Glynne remains the British female solo artist with the most Number 1 songs in Official Chart history; drawing level with Ariana Grande and Kylie Minogue.

Now, Jess returns with her brand-new single What Do You Do?

A return to her dance-pop roots, What Do You Do? sees Jess pair heart-on-her-sleeve lyrics with a summer-ready, disco-tinged instrumental; serving as the latest taste of her upcoming third studio album.

We caught up with Jess backstage at her performance at the British Grand Prix's Official Launch Party at Silverstone to discuss career highlights, her 'vulnerable' new material and how life experiences have shaped her song writing.

MORE: See where every Jess Glynne song and album charted in the UK

Jess, you still hold the record as the British female solo act with the most Number 1 singles. That must feel incredible?

Isn’t that mad? Any Number 1 you get, you think ‘are you joking?’ I never put anything out with an expectation. You just have to put it out, into people’s hands, and see what happens; you just have to hope people love it.

I hope people love What Do You Do? I really love this track. I really believe in this song, it makes me feel a certain type of way.

Do you still get nervous releasing new material, almost a decade into your career?

I get nervous about everything; going on stage, releasing music. I’ve been away for five years, that’s such a long time.

You've achieved so much in that time, though. Which moments stand out to you as particular career highlights?

That’s such a hard question. I’ve had a few moments. Performing at Glastonbury on the Pyramid Stage was crazy for me; it was so surreal seeing so many people singing your songs. Winning a GRAMMY was insane, too. I just thought ‘what the hell’s going on here?’

My performance [of Thursday] at the BRITs, as well. Those three moments are such highlights for me. Those, and having two Number 1 albums.

Speaking of albums, how's work going on the third?

This album’s done, it’s just about ready now. It’s not the final, final version, but we’re here, we’re good.

I’ve evolved as a human and as an artist. Five years is a long time, I’ve grown as a woman; I’m very different now in my mindset and self-security. I’m a little bit more emotionally intelligent. It doesn’t sound like my [previous] two records; it’s definitely more emotional.

I have to be honest, I love this album. I'm really proud of the songs on it.

LISTEN to Jess Glynne's What Do You Do? below:

MORE: The Official Top 40 biggest songs of 2023 so far

You mention being more emotionally intelligent - how did that inform your song writing?

It’s definitely a more vulnerable album. I’ve been doing a lot of work on myself over the past few years, I’ve been through a lot in my career and personal life. It’s taught me a lot. I’ve grown, and I think the songs show what I’ve been through a little bit.

We can't wait to hear it! When can we expect it?

Ooh. All I'm saying is it's coming, don't worry. The bag is secured!

Jess Glynne's What Do You Do? is out now via Universal Music.