Interview and photography by Grace (@snappedbykya)
Meet Temptress, the London-based R&B and neon soul duo composed of Jessi Clover Belgrave and Vlad Woodham-Smith. With their soulful melodies and innovative sound, they’ve been making waves throughout the city’s music scene. Their latest project, what would you do, has captured the hearts of listeners with its fresh, dynamic style.
In an exclusive interview, I sat down with Jessi and Vlad at Leo’s Cafe in North London for an intimate chat over hot drinks and fries. I dove deep into their creative process, musical influences, personal journey, and more!
Jessi is from North London, while Vlad is from South London. However, they now both reside in North London, surrounded by a melting pot of cultures that constantly inspire their music.
Jessi’s musical journey began with piano lessons, but it wasn’t long before she started experimenting with production using GarageBand. “That’s all I had at the time,” she recalled, reflecting on how she explored different sounds while singing, writing, and even playing guitar.
Vlad’s path was similar. Encouraged by his mom to join a singing club, he soon found himself writing songs and experimenting with production. “It was more than just playing guitar—it was about creating something,” Vlad explained. “For both of us, production has always been a big part of the process,” Jessi added, describing their shared love for crafting a song from start to finish.
The Perfect Match
Their chemistry is undeniable, both in music and conversation. When asked how they knew they were the perfect duo, they laughed. “We met while playing in different bands at our student union at Goldsmiths University, where we were both studying music,” Vlad explained. “Afterward, we decided to try a session together, and it just clicked. We were ‘gassed,’ thinking, ‘Oh, that sounds so good!’” Jessi agreed, noting how quickly they realised their voices complemented each other, cementing their decision to form a duo.
Their breakout moment came in 2017 with the release of “Lies,” a song they randomly uploaded one Sunday night. “We didn’t expect much,” Jessi recalled. “We were just like, ‘Oh, we made a fun song. Let’s put it on the internet.’ ” But that song changed everything, and from there, Temptress was born.
Before settling on the name Temptress, they performed under the moniker Vlad vs. Clover (Jessi’s middle name). The search for a new name was serendipitous—they found “Temptress” while flipping through a dictionary. “It was funny,” Vlad said. “No one else had taken the name, and we liked the idea of a singular name representing two people.”
The Evolution of what would you do
Their latest release, what would you do, has received positive feedback, even garnering support from Apple Music. Jessi describes it as a snapshot of where their sound is now. “It’s a much smoother process for us. We write, mix, and release everything ourselves. It feels good to be fully in control.”
The track went through multiple iterations before they settled on the final version. “We wrote the song years ago,” Jessi explained. “But it didn’t quite capture the energy we wanted. After several rewrites, we finally hit the right note.”
Themes of Love and Heartbreak
Temptress’ music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and romance. “They’re universal themes that people can relate to,” Jessi said. “Our music is a little happy, a little sad, and a little reflective.”
When asked for relationship advice for someone going through a breakup, Jessi suggested leaning on friends for support. Vlad added, “Sometimes, you just have to rip the plaster off, even if it feels like the worst thing in the world. It gets better.”
What’s Next for Temptress?
Temptress is always creating, currently working on new music, including their upcoming track “It Takes Two.” Jessi described it as an upbeat, danceable breakup song. “It’s kind of a happy breakup song,” she laughed.
Reflecting on the London music scene, Jessi noted how it has changed. “So much of it is online now. Before, there were collectives trying to recreate that energy, but now it feels like a battle to be seen.” Vlad agreed, but acknowledged that the online space allows for global connections.
When asked about dream collaborations, they both mentioned Kaytranada. While a collaboration isn’t in the works yet, they’re manifesting it—“Kaytranada’s vibe would fit so well with ours.”
Ventures Beyond Music
In addition to their music, Temptress runs their own creative studio, Plastic Fruits, where they produce music videos, direct, and photograph. Jessi shared how they started this visual journey: “We didn’t know how to do it at first, but we borrowed cameras, experimented, and eventually people began asking us to create visuals for them. Now, it’s a business.”
Outside of music, the duo enjoys sprinting. In their downtime, they hit the track, and as Vlad revealed, Jessi has a hidden talent for cutting and styling hair—a skill she honed during the lockdown. They’ve also been dating for over seven years. Though people often assumed they were a couple before they officially were, they now fully embrace both their romantic and creative partnership.
I put Jessi and Vlad on the spot with a few rapid-fire questions.
Would they rather listen to their least favourite genre for 24 hours or give up their favourite genre for six months? They opted for the 24-hour challenge, even if it meant enduring “screaming experimental metal.”
When asked if they’d rather be famous artists or bring their favourite musician back to life, they both chose fame—but not for typical reasons. “It would give us the resources to bring our creative visions to life,” Jessi said.
As musicians, what are three things they can’t live without? “A computer/laptop, a microphone (essential to their sound), and Spotify or access to streaming services,” they shared.
What colour would Temptress be? Vlad said, “Probably a deep blue. It’s like looking out over the water when you can’t see anything in the distance. It’s hazy at the edges. That’s kind of the concept.”
Looking Ahead
By 2030, Temptress hopes to be touring the world and reaching even more listeners. “We’ve learned so much over the years, and now we’re releasing more music than ever,” Vlad said. Jessi added, “It’s amazing to look back and see how far we’ve come.” Vlad’s goal is simpler: “As long as we’re still having fun and loving what we make, I’ll be happy.”
They hope to tour Europe and the U.S. , with Denmark and Sweden at the top of Jessi’s list. “The music scene there is so cool,” she said.
As for their advice to aspiring musicians? “Just do it,” Vlad said. “If you love the process, that’s what matters.” Jessi added, “Keep making music, and don’t be afraid to let go of songs. You grow by moving forward.”
Stay Connected with Temptress
Follow Temptress on their journey on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) at @wearetemptress, on YouTube and Spotify at @temptress, and on TikTok at @temptresstv.
Temptress, the London R&B duo of Jessi Clover Belgrave and Vlad Woodham-Smith, has gained attention with their recent project, what would you do,The duo met at Goldsmiths University and quickly discovered their musical chemistry. They initially performed under the name Vlad vs Clover but later rebranded to Temptress, a name they feel reflects their music’s sultry and reflective nature.
In the interview, they discussed their creative process, musical influences, and the importance of collaboration. Their recent single received positive feedback and marks a shift toward a more fluid songwriting and production approach. Jessi emphasises themes of love and heartbreak in their music, while Vlad notes their strong connection as a couple helps them create together.
Both passionate about their craft, they advise aspiring musicians to enjoy the process and not be afraid to let go of songs that aren’t working. Looking ahead, they aspire to tour globally and reach wider audiences while continuing to grow creatively.
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