We caught up with Jenna Drey in the Hercules Space at the Nexus Lounge during Miami Music Week 2025. The DJ shared the background behind her new projects, talked about the influence of COVID on her artistry, and played a quick game of our signature Nexus Take 5 series.
Jenna Drey is a multi-Billboard Charting Dance/EDM songwriter and artist whose music blends powerful female vocals, infectious melodies, and subtle pop/country undertones. A classically trained pianist and vocalist, Jenna’s early career was marked by success in international songwriting contests, which led to pivotal collaborations with industry icons.
Getting into our interview, Jenna shares that her latest project, “Haley’s Comet,” is a collaboration with DJ Joe Bermudez and a small army of creative talent spanning Nashville to the Netherlands. The song was years in the making, evolving through multiple rewrites and the input of high-level producers and musicians — including Barry Zito (aka Drake Holloway), whose musical pedigree includes family ties to Nat King Cole’s band. The final result is an uplifting, anthemic track that blends deep symbolism with dancefloor energy.
“The world’s in a dark place right now,” Jenna said, explaining the meaning behind the comet imagery. “It’s about not letting your dreams burn out.” But despite the track’s polished sound, it was no easy journey. “Probably one of the most difficult songs I’ve ever worked on,” Jenna shared, noting the lyrical depth and production intricacy — with over 30 background vocal tracks layered in.
Her partnership with Bermudez goes back years, first forged when he was a radio programmer in Boston. COVID lockdowns sparked a new wave of collaboration, leading to the creative seeds that became “Haley’s Comet.”
Outside of music, Jenna emphasized the importance of maintaining real relationships in the industry — and staying healthy, too. “Without your health, you don’t have anything,” she said, referencing past injuries that sidelined her career. Her perspective on life now centers around love in its truest form: helping others, even without expecting anything in return.
During our signature *Take 5* segment, Jenna revealed that she’d love to travel with P!nk — not just for her vocal chops but for her strength and work-life balance. And when it comes to rude animals? “Cats,” she said without hesitation. “I’ve been sliced and diced too many times!”
As for her musical legacy, Jenna hopes to be remembered for songs that make people feel something. “I don’t care if anyone sees my face,” she said. “I just want the songs to matter.”
Check out the full-length and exclusive interview with Jenna Drey below, and make sure to tune in to Nexus Radio for more in-depth interviews with dance music’s biggest artists!
