JoJo’s Journey, From Pop Stardom to Legal Battles, Addiction, and Redemption in New Memoir Over the Influence
For much of the 2000s, JoJo was a defining voice in the pop music scene, quickly becoming a household name thanks to her massive hits and undeniable talent. Born Joanna Levesque, she exploded onto the music scene at just 13 years old with her debut single “Leave (Get Out)” in 2004. The song didn’t just turn heads; it made history. JoJo became the youngest artist to ever reach number one on the Billboard Pop Songs chart, marking the start of a whirlwind career.
Her early success was bolstered by two albums that cemented her as a pop powerhouse: JoJo (2004) and The High Road (2006). The latter featured “Too Little Too Late,” a track that reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the most recognizable songs of the decade. With these achievements, along with acting roles in films like Aquamarine and RV, JoJo was on track for a long and prosperous career in the entertainment industry.
However, behind the scenes, things were far from perfect. JoJo’s early career was plagued by behind-the-scenes struggles, particularly with her record label, Blackground Records. These issues culminated in a decade-long legal battle that nearly derailed her career entirely.
Despite her early success, JoJo’s career came to a screeching halt due to contractual disputes with Blackground Records. In a situation that’s all too familiar for many artists in the music industry, JoJo found herself in a legal stranglehold. Her record label failed to release new music or properly support her career, leaving her in what she describes as “musical purgatory.”
From 2006 to 2013, JoJo fought tirelessly for her freedom. Due to Blackground Records’ lack of distribution deals, she couldn’t release a third studio album. Her fans, while loyal, were left wondering why their beloved artist seemed to disappear from the spotlight. During this period, JoJo released music independently via mixtapes, but her official releases were stalled, along with her creative voice.
It wasn’t until 2013 that JoJo finally won a lawsuit against Blackground Records, freeing her from the shackles of her old contract. In a dramatic victory, she signed with Atlantic Records and released her third studio album, Mad Love, in 2016. The album signaled her triumphant return to the music industry, and her fans welcomed her back with open arms. But as JoJo’s new memoir reveals, her career struggles were just the tip of the iceberg.
Overcoming Addiction and Reclaiming Her Voice
In her new memoir, Over the Influence, JoJo opens up about the personal toll that her legal battles took on her. Now 33, she reflects on the pain and isolation she felt while being unable to release music and express herself creatively. In candid detail, she writes about how the frustration from her stalled career led to struggles with addiction.
JoJo’s memoir delves into the emotional darkness she experienced during this tumultuous time. The singer describes how she turned to alcohol and unhealthy behaviors to cope with her feelings of powerlessness and stagnation. Her battle with addiction was one of the most challenging chapters of her life, but it was also one that gave her the strength to reclaim her voice.
In Over the Influence, JoJo reveals the journey of self-discovery that ultimately led her to sobriety and a renewed passion for her craft. She talks about the importance of therapy, self-care, and leaning on loved ones during her recovery process. The memoir is a raw and honest portrayal of a woman who, despite enormous talent and early success, had to fight for her place in the world of music—and within herself.
With her legal battles behind her and her sobriety in place, JoJo made a powerful comeback with the release of Mad Love in 2016. The album was a testament to her growth as both an artist and a person. Songs like “F** Apologies”* and “Music” reflected her newfound strength and independence, touching on themes of resilience, self-worth, and redemption. The album debuted at number six on the Billboard 200, signaling that JoJo was far from finished.
In the years since her return, JoJo has continued to make waves in the industry. Her 2020 album Good to Know was praised for its introspective lyrics and bold sound. She’s also embraced the freedom of being an independent artist, re-recording her early hits to give her fans the music they love on her own terms.
In Over the Influence, JoJo explores what it means to take back control of her narrative. It’s a journey of self-empowerment, showing readers that even after being silenced by legal and personal struggles, she’s emerged stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever.
At 33, JoJo’s story is one of resilience and unwavering determination. Her early career was filled with remarkable achievements, but her ability to bounce back from adversity is what truly defines her legacy. Her memoir Over the Influence gives fans and readers a glimpse into the hardships she faced both personally and professionally.
Her message is clear: no matter how difficult the road may be, true artists will always find their way back to their craft. JoJo’s journey from pop sensation to legal victim to triumphant return serves as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to take control of your life and career.
JoJo’s story resonates with anyone who has ever felt trapped by circumstances beyond their control. It’s a testament to the power of resilience, personal growth, and the strength required to reclaim your voice when the world tries to silence it.
As JoJo continues to evolve as an artist, actress, and now author, her fans can look forward to seeing even more of her raw and authentic self. Whether through her music or her words, JoJo’s comeback is a reminder that true talent never fades—it only grows stronger with time.
JoJo’s memoir Over the Influence is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the realities behind the glitz and glamour of the music industry. It’s a story of struggle, survival, and ultimately, success.
JoJo’s story is one of resilience, a reminder that even after being silenced, true artists always find their way back to their craft.
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