Q&A: Jordan Suaste Unveils “heaven,” A Radiant Queer Love Anthem
RISING POP SINGER-SONGWRITER — Jordan Suaste has released “heaven,” now streaming on all major platforms. The vibrant single teases his upcoming EP, maybe i already am, slated for release on Sept. 6. At just 23, Suaste’s infectious personality and commitment to themes of self-worth and authenticity shine through his music, captivating fans worldwide.
“Heaven” delves into Suaste's personal experiences with love and religion, challenging societal norms and celebrating individuality. Despite a tumultuous past, Suaste’s DIY ethos and genuine connection with his audience have catapulted him into the spotlight. His raw vulnerability and relatable lyrics have garnered him a growing social media following, making him a voice for many.
From his breakout track “If the World Ended Tonight,” featured in Netflix’s To All The Boys: Always and Forever, to his latest releases, Suaste continues to resonate deeply with fans.
Luna recently chatted with Suaste about his musical influences, life experiences, and the importance of self-love and self-acceptance. Read the full interview below.
LUNA: How did your journey with music begin, and where has it led you?
SUASTE: It's been a pretty crazy ride. It happened overnight in 2020 when COVID hit. Before I made music, I was an esthetician running my own business. I've always written songs since I was a kid and wanted to be a musician, but growing up in Salt Lake City, it didn't seem feasible. When I couldn't work due to COVID in March of 2020, I was bored and started posting on TikTok. I began posting little songs I wrote, and they did well. I engaged with beautiful people who became fans, and we formed a community. My first single, “Hookup Culture,” came out in May of 2020. I had the song produced and posted it on TikTok, where it did well. While producing “Hookup Culture,” I posted a TikTok of a song called “Body,” which went viral with people like Charli D'Amelio dancing to it. It all happened quickly, and I was signed to a label in June or July of 2020. After about two and a half years, I went independent for a year. Last November, I signed with Position Music, my current indie label. Throughout this process, I've been writing this upcoming project. It's gone through several versions, but I finally created a project that feels very current and true to who I am now. I'm really excited for this EP to be my introduction to the world.
LUNA: You described “heaven” as one of your top three favorite songs from your upcoming EP. What makes it so special?
SUASTE: "Heaven" is a song I wrote when I was seeing a guy who I’m still with and love. It was my first time writing a song that felt very present to who I am now. I wasn't trying to write a queer song — I was just writing about my love. The song's message is that there's nothing wrong with being in love, and if loving him means I end up in a bad afterlife, that's not my problem. I'm going to focus on the beautiful life I have now. Writing “heaven” just came out naturally.
LUNA: What’s your favorite lyric from the song?
SUASTE: My favorite is from the second verse: "Pray for my soul / It's kind of funny / They say I need saving when I don't / I'm just living life before I go." It's about living your life despite what others say.
LUNA: I love that, and it certainly resonates with a lot of people. Can you tell me more about the visualizer for "heaven?” What was the creative inspiration behind it?
SUASTE: The visualizer for "heaven" wasn't originally planned. We did a big photo shoot for the whole project with my creative director, Paige, who pulled out a red backdrop and roses at the end of a long day. It wasn't planned, but it turned out beautifully. I love flowers — my whole arm is covered in floral tattoos. My mom once told me that no flower is perfect but they're all beautiful, which stuck with me.
LUNA: That's a beautiful sentiment. Your EP, maybe i already am, is set to release in September. What themes or stories can fans expect from the project?
SUASTE: The EP is very much about love, specifically queer love, and my experience growing up queer and becoming who I am today. The title comes from a song I wrote where I realized I don't need to be special — maybe I already am. It's about self-acceptance and self-love. The project is fun and has sad songs, too, because we love a sad song.
LUNA: I'm sure your fans are very excited. How have your different life experiences shaped your music?
SUASTE: I love to write about my life. The more I've gone through, the more depth I can bring to my writing. Life experiences give me more to write about, whether it's love, heartbreak or existential thoughts.
LUNA: I read that you have a DIY mentality when it comes to your music. What does that mean to you?
SUASTE: I like to be involved in everything that comes out. When I first signed with a label, I gave away the reins because I was out of my comfort zone. But now I've learned to make something authentic to who I am. If people don't like it, that's okay because I like it, and there are others who feel the same way.
LUNA: You promote themes of self-worth and self-acceptance in your music. How do you practice these values in your own life, and how would you encourage your fans to do the same?
SUASTE: I do what makes me happy, like playing video games and spending time with my boyfriend and cats. I encourage others to do what makes them happy, whether it's going for a walk or finding something they love. Be patient with yourself and take time with your heart.
LUNA: Do you have any musical inspirations?
SUASTE: Definitely. Artists like Sam Smith, Miley Cyrus, Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish inspire me. Sam Smith, in particular, has been a huge influence. Their album In the Lonely Hour is amazing.
LUNA: If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?
SUASTE: It would have to be Sam Smith. It's always been a dream to sing with them.
LUNA: Do you have any exciting plans or goals for the future?
SUASTE: We're looking at doing a tour, and I'm also excited about my album coming out next year. Right now, I'm writing songs that feel very fresh and exciting. We plan to do merch, vinyls, and more for the tour. I want to give back to the fans who have supported me for so long.
