2026 Semi-Finalist
Reimagining “All in Love Is Fair”
How an inspiration, new harmonies, and lush strings shaped our soulful reinterpretation of a timeless song.
The idea for this rendition of “All in Love Is Fair” started when I was listening to “I Forgive You” by Rachelle Ferrell, one of my musical heroes. I was deeply moved by the groove and the melancholic, piano-driven atmosphere of the track, and it inspired me to capture a similar emotional space in a reinterpretation of Stevie Wonder’s “All in Love Is Fair.” When I brought the idea to producer David Olivas, he began experimenting at the piano, reharmonizing the original changes and shaping a new harmonic landscape for the song. Once the arrangement took form, I approached the vocals with the dramatic, expressive style of 90s ballads inspired by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey—blending soft, intimate whispers with soaring dynamics to bring out the emotional depth of Stevie’s lyrics. When David and I felt the track needed another dimension, we brought in strings arranged by the brilliant Katisse Buckingham. We then recorded the piece live with the incredible pianist Quinn Johnson, and the beautiful string performances of Allysa Park and Timothy Loo. The result became a heartfelt blend of reverence and reinvention—our way of honoring a timeless song while letting it breathe in a new emotional world.
Audience Notes
With gratitude to the listeners who share their voices
“Timeless lyrics meet modern artistry; I’m enchanted.”
— Robert T., San Francisco
“Tender yet honest; love in all its fairness and unfairness.”
— Isabelle L., Paris
“An emotional journey; every note strikes a chord.”
— Michael H., London
“Love rendered in music—pain, joy, and everything in between.”
— Kwame T., Accra
“Beautifully intimate, like a love letter set to music.”
— Jasmine L., Saint Croix
“Jill balances softness and strength masterfully.”
— Kenji O., Tokyo
“Poignant and real; a song that invites introspection.”
— Elena R., Madrid
“Every bar feels considered; love’s complexity in full bloom.”
— Pieter V., Amsterdam
2025 ISC Semi-Finalist
Tickety Tock” Lands in the Semi-Finals of the 2025 International Songwriting Competition
“Tickety Tock” pairs Jill Desiree’s soulful vocals with the unmistakable jazz flute of Katisse Buckingham, riding a laid-back, funky groove filled with tight horn lines and rich, organic instrumentation. Blending classic soul feeling with contemporary musicianship, the track delivers a rhythmically playful vibe that feels equally at home on jazz, soul, and groove-driven playlists.
The song has recently advanced to the Semi-Finals of the 2025 International Songwriting Competition (ISC) in the R&B/Soul category, one of the most respected international songwriting competitions. It’s truly an honor to have the song recognized among so many talented writers and artists.
“Tickety Tock” came from a very personal moment in my life, and knowing that it resonated with the ISC judges means a great deal to me. I’m deeply grateful to the musicians and production team who helped bring the track to life, and to everyone who has supported the music along the way. Your encouragement continues to inspire me.