ABOUT HARLEN | #QWOC | Maori | Nga Puhi | Ngati Porou
Harlen AKA Jess Harlen, is a self-published songwriter and unique vocalist best known for her heartfelt songs that chime into the soul and span a range of genres. From acoustic ballads like Silence, to uptempo Resin Dogs single BAD DOG, her dulcet tones remain unmistakably Harlen.
In 2000, Harlen’s first attempt at songwriting was recorded by Brian Cadd as part of KoolSkools, winning Best Acoustic Song and Best Female Vocals. Her songwriting saw her cut her teeth on the Melbourne underground music scene and win ‘Best Unsigned Artist’ at the Australia and New Zealand Urban Music Awards.
Released on Plethora Records, her debut album Neon Heartache and sophomore album Park Yard Slang both received critical acclaim.
“A significant contribution to Australia’s musical identity” - Time Off. “An Artist to watch” - Rolling Stone.
Harlen won Best Female Artist at the Age EG awards 2010, and received a triple nomination at the Waiata Maori Music Awards for Best Maori Pop Album, Best Maori Urban Album and Best Maori Female Artist.
During the years 2010-2021, Harlen was published by Native Tongue Publishing and featured on TV shows such as Bondi Rescue, Packed To The Rafters, Hand Of God, Chicago Fire, Shortland Street and many more.
Her sultry voice featured on singles;
- ‘Don’t Worry About Nothing’ | Muph and Plutonic ft Jess Harlen | Triple J’s Hottest 100 | Obese Records
- ‘The Time It Takes’, | Zillanova ft Jess Harlen | throwback soul | Hope Street Records
- ‘City Lights’ | Che Fu, Jess Harlen, Jeremedy, Anthony Devine
- ‘Weary Traveller’ | Kid Radio ft Jess Harlen
- ‘Drift Away’ | Mr Grevis ft Jess Harlen | Obese Records
- ‘Stay Brave’ | Illlevel ft Jess Harlen | Nuffsaid Records
- ‘Better Than That’ | Kuya James ft Harlen | Settle Down Records
Harlen toured the world as a vocalist in Blue King Brown, and toured Australia and New Zealand with Cocoa Jackson Lane, formed with Camilla Charlesworth (Kim Gordon, Tina Arena). She has been an accompanying guitarist for Lily Meola, Ruel, and had the pleasure of performing with Neil Finn, Mick Fleetwood, Aerosmith and Jack Johnson.
After a life-stopping road accident, Harlen returned to Australia to recover in her hometown, Brisbane, where she collaborated with two-time world cup winner, NRLW star, Karina Brown. ‘She’s Got Confidence’ is an empowering anthem for the next generation and features on ABC Documentary A League Of Her Own.
Harlen is currently finishing her next solo record, produced by Camilla Charlesworth, and promises the heart opening effect long-time listeners have grown accustomed to.
Neon Heartache
Plethora Records (Obese Records) 2010
"An exceptional contribution to Australia's musical identity" Time Off
"A beautiful debut from one very talented artist" Scene Magazine
"Her street-smart soul is like a breath of fresh air for the Australian urban music scene" Onion Magazine
"Unexpectedly addictive" Rave Magazine
"I Go is a soul masterpiece" Beat Magazine
Park Yard Slang
Plethora Records (Obese Records) 2012
“An artist to watch” Rolling Stone
Album Of The Week ABC Radio Australia
“Fresh and versatile… definitely an artist to look out for” Soul of Sydney