Jessica Lois Ware arrived at the forefront of British pop in 2012 with the release of her debut album, Devotion. Raised in Clapham, she transitioned from academic study at the University of Sussex to a career in music, balancing solo projects with high-profile collaborations and a later expansion into the medium of podcasting.
Early Career and Collaborations
Before achieving solo prominence, Ware gained experience providing backing vocals for Jack Peñate and Man Like Me. Her early industry presence included collaborations with SBTRKT on the track Nervous and a joint project with Sampha titled Valentine, released on heart-shaped vinyl in 2011. She also contributed to Florence and the Machine’s album Ceremonials before signing with PMR Records.
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Her debut solo single, Strangest Feeling, appeared in 2011. Devotion followed in August 2012, peaking at number five on the UK Albums Chart. The record included singles such as Wildest Moments and 110%. She earned multiple accolades during this period, including Mercury Prize nominations and several Brit Award nominations, spanning categories for Best New Artist and British Female Solo Artist.
Mid-Career Evolution
The release of Tough Love in 2014 reached number nine on the UK Albums Chart, featuring production work by BenZel and writing contributions from Ed Sheeran. Ware’s third studio album, Glasshouse, arrived in 2017 and peaked at number seven. During these years, she also contributed vocals to tracks for Nicki Minaj and continued writing for artists including Ed Sheeran.
Recent Projects and Media
Ware shifted toward a disco-influenced aesthetic for her 2020 release, What's Your Pleasure?, which reached number three in the UK. This was followed by That! Feels Good! in 2023. Beyond music, she began co-hosting the Table Manners podcast in 2018 alongside her mother, Lennie Ware, discussing food and family topics.
Fast facts
- Born: 1984, Hammersmith
- Education: Alleyn's School and University of Sussex
- Debut Album: Devotion (2012)
- Notable Podcast: Table Manners
- Citizenship: United Kingdom
- Religion: Judaism
Questions readers ask
What was Jessie Ware's profession before music?
She worked as a journalist at The Jewish Chronicle and The Daily Mirror and held roles at the television company Love Productions.
What is the Table Manners podcast about?
It is a show co-hosted with her mother, Lennie Ware, focusing on family, food, and conversation.
Achievements
- Educated at University of Sussex
- Worked as singer-songwriter, singer and recording artist
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