Naomi Jacob is building her music career from the ground up. She sings, writes her own songs, plays multiple instruments and manages the business side of her music. Throughout this interview, it becomes clear that Naomi possesses the talent and determination to stand out in the music industry. Whether experimenting with new genres or collaborating on her latest single, Naomi is dedicated to making music that matters. To hear her music, check out her tracks on any streaming service under the name Naomi Mercy.  

MH: Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your background at TWU?  

NJ: My name is Naomi Jacob, and I am in my second year at TWU. I am majoring in music with a business minor. Music has always been a big part of my life. If I had to describe its impact, I would say it is like my second oxygen, always [running] through me. I have been a singer since I was three years old. In fact, my preschool teachers told my parents to put me in music lessons.  

MH: Was music always going to be your path in life? 

NJ: I always knew I wanted to pursue something with music, whether as a career or in church. Also, as a musician, you are basically an entrepreneur, so understanding the business side is important. Job security matters to me, which is why I am completing a business minor along with my studies in music. Yet, along the way, I have discovered a true passion for business.  

MH: What was your first instrument and how did you learn it? 

NJ: Singing has always been my main thing. I played piano for about 10 or 11 years and learned it classically—which was not my favourite. However, recently I have gotten back into piano through my church’s worship team. I also play acoustic guitar, and I am learning bass, electric guitar and a bit of drums.

I owe a lot to my teachers, as I am a mosaic of everyone who has poured into me. 

MH: Your speaking style suggests a background in media training. Have you received any formal training in this area?  

NJ: I was actually a radio host at Simon Fraser University (SFU) for a year in Grade 11. It was all thanks to a trade program in Burnaby. We produced an album and even got work experience at SFU’s campus radio. That definitely helped me! 

MH: What genre do you gravitate towards in your own music? 

NJ: My genre is a bit under construction at the moment. Studying classical music at TWU has really opened new vocal possibilities for me. At the same time, I tend to write in a more pop and R&B style. R&B and jazz are where my voice feels most at home.  

MH: Have you always been a songwriter? 

NJ: Yes, since I was nine. Songwriting is how I vocalize my thoughts. I guess I am decent at poetry, but for me, it always started with singing. 

MH: Tell us about your latest single, “First Love.” What inspired it?  

NJ: “First Love” is very pop-influenced, with some Tame Impala-esque production and nods to K-pop. I write about love, but in a healthy context. I aim to highlight the human experience without glamorizing bad decisions. “First Love” tells a story of a girl whose love interest cannot let go of his first crush. It is not my direct experience, but I have seen it happen to friends and through the media. 

MH: What was the recording process like? 

NJ: “First Love” had lyrics sitting in my notes for two years. My producer friend showed me an instrumental, and the lyrics just happened to fit perfectly. The recording process itself was collaborative and very spontaneous. The reception was amazing, and so many people supported me.  

MH: Where do you see your artistic career going?  

NJ: There are two answers: the realistic one and the dream. My dream is to win a Grammy in five years. But the industry can be tough—sometimes you become a product, and I never want to lose my soul for success.

I believe God has called me to heal people through music, and that is my goal.  

MH: Is there any advice you can give to aspiring artists? 

NJ: You are more than capable. It is easy to underestimate yourself, and if you do not take opportunities when they come, you will regret it later. Even if things do not work out as planned, it is still character development. I live life like it is a TV show, and so far, it is working out for me.