Player’s Pass With Jane Handcock: The Future of Soul
Ahead of her debut at the Blue Note, Okayplayer sat down with Jane Handcock for an intimate conversation about the moments that shaped her soulful sound and what’s next.
Photo by Michael Mais Jr. for Okayplayer.
There’s a certain clarity that comes with artists who understand both their roots and their direction. Jane Handcock carries that balance effortlessly. She’s grounded in soul, sharpened by experience, and moves with intention. Ahead of her debut performance at the Blue Note on March 4, she sat down with Okayplayer to reflect on the moments that shaped her relationship with music and the mindset that continues to guide her forward.
Okayplayer: One song that changed your outlook on music?
Jane Handcock: I can’t really pinpoint a song. But when I first heard Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1 live version album, that changed my outlook on music, for sure. I remember when I first heard “Slowly, Surely” live. That was like my go-to song at talent shows.
When did you realize music was more than a hobby?
I think I realized music was more than a hobby in high school, when me and my friends were actually getting paid (Jane laughs while reflecting). I was like, “Oh, we can do this for real.” We all went home with a cool $100.
One thing you would tell your future self?
We knew it. It gets greater later.
Moments like this offer a more personal reflection of an artist. For Jane Handcock, it’s about trusting the journey, honoring the influences, and recognizing the signs along the way. If her trajectory says anything, it’s that “greater later” isn’t just a mantra. It’s already in motion.
Check out our exclusive Player Pass interview below.
