Jessica Lea Mayfield was born on August 27, 1989 in Kent, Ohio. She grew up in a musical family, performing with her family bluegrass band from a young age. At just eight years old, she began touring the United States with her family, honing her musical talents on stage. When she was eleven, her brother David taught her how to play the guitar, sparking her passion for songwriting.
At the age of fifteen, Jessica recorded her first album in her brother's bedroom. She printed 100 copies of the album, one of which made its way into the hands of Dan Auerbach, guitarist of The Black Keys. Impressed by her unique sound, Auerbach reached out to Jessica and the two began collaborating on her debut album.
With the help of Dan Auerbach, Jessica released her debut album With Blasphemy So Heartfelt in 2008. Auerbach's influence on the album helped Jessica gain recognition in the music industry, catapulting her to fame. Her melancholic tone and poignant lyrics resonated with audiences, earning her a significant following.
Following the success of her debut album, Jessica continued to push musical boundaries. Her 2014 album Make My Head Sing showcased a new grunge-like sound, distancing itself from the influence of The Black Keys. With each album, Jessica demonstrated her versatility as an artist, exploring different genres and styles.
Despite her busy music career, Jessica remains connected to her roots and family. She credits her brother David for sparking her interest in music and teaching her how to play the guitar. In addition to her musical talent, Jessica also found love and support in her husband Jesse Newport.
In 2015, Jessica joined forces with Seth Avett of the Avett Brothers to release an album of Elliott Smith covers. The collaboration showcased Jessica's ability to connect with other musicians and create beautiful harmonies together.
Throughout her career, Jessica Lea Mayfield has proven herself to be a talented and dynamic artist. Her unique sound and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences around the world, earning her a place among the top folk singers of her generation.