Synergy as Song: Jennifer Surjadi
Collaboration is at the heart of Jennifer Surjadi’s musical practice. For the singer-songwriter, it’s the space where something truly great can emerge. Sitting down with a team to develop a concept, write through ideas, layer in instrumentation, shape melodies, and finally fine-tune lyrics until a song feels complete—that process is where she thrives. The collaborative approach works seamlessly for the Bay Area vocalist.
Music has always been integral to who Surjadi is. Growing up with songs constantly playing in her home, she began singing and playing piano at a young age. What started as a childhood passion evolved into performing at vocal showcases around the Bay Area, which she still calls home. Through high school, including making it through several rounds of American Idol, she fell in love not just with performing, but with creating her own music and artistry.
Influenced by powerhouse vocalists like Whitney Houston and Ariana Grande, Surjadi describes her sound as pop-inspired R&B. “I love something with a beat and a groove to it,” she says, pointing to the track “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse as an example. Her style reflects both what she heard on the radio growing up and the contrasting musical tastes of her parents: her mom loving older soul classics and her dad finding his niche in pop stars like Justin Bieber.
Heading into Battle of the Bands, Surjadi believes what sets her group apart is their cohesion. She describes her band as having distinct chemistry—made up of some of the most talented musicians on Columbia’s campus, tied together by a shared passion for jazz and soul. As for the performance itself, she is most excited for her opener, “Potential.” The track, her most recent demo, carries high energy and incorporates complex musicality that allows her instrumentalists to shine. She notes that the vocals feel especially compelling in this song, making it a standout moment in the set that the audience should look forward to.
On stage, Surjadi describes her persona as simply a more confident version of herself – slightly more outgoing and lively to create strong energy with the audience and bring them in. Her outfit choices reflect that elevated confidence, helping her visually embody the vibrant presence she brings to her performances. Having grown up performing, she says that live energy continues to shape how she creates music. Ultimately, she aims for her work to feel intimate but polished, vulnerable yet intentional.
Catch Jennifer Surjadi jamming it out with her band at the Battle of the Bands!