Carly Rae Jepsen has recently celebrated a number of significant milestones, both personal and professional, as she continues to establish herself in the music industry. The talented pop singer released her eagerly anticipated double album, *Day and Night*, on 18 September 2026. This latest venture comes on the heels of a life-changing year, during which Jepsen married music producer Cole M.G.N. and welcomed their first child, son Ilya Blue.
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In a candid conversation with *PEOPLE*, Jepsen shared how her new roles as a wife and mother have inspired her creativity. “This poor child has heard so many mixes [of my songs] in my belly,” she jokingly remarked while reflecting on her pregnancy. As she prepares to celebrate her first wedding anniversary with Cole in October, Jepsen conveyed her excitement about this transformative phase of her life: “We’re carrying strollers and diaper bags and eight other things. We’re figuring it out together, and it’s all so new to us. We’re really enjoying it.”
*Day and Night* marks a significant evolution in Jepsen’s discography. It is her inaugural double album, an artistic endeavor that she began crafting while expecting her son. The album showcases a blend of psychedelic pop tracks during the ’Day’ sessions and club-ready dance selections during the ’Night’ sessions. “I’ve had other chapters that have been lonelier, like I was on a journey not knowing where it was leading,” the 40-year-old singer explained. Now, however, she feels she has entered a “fresh new chapter” characterised by gratitude for her growing family.
A native of British Columbia, Jepsen first captured the music world’s attention nearly 15 years ago, thanks to catchy hits such as “Call Me Maybe” and her collaboration with Owl City on “Good Time.” While these tracks solidified her place in pop, Jepsen has sought to venture beyond merely chasing chart-toppers. Following the release of her landmark 2015 album, *Emotion*, she has emerged as one of pop’s most innovative stars, consistently exploring new sounds while weaving relatable narratives into her lyrics.
For Jepsen, music has always been a profound outlet for emotional expression. “I’ve always felt like music is a beautiful place to go when you want to feel all the things,” she stated. Reflecting on her early influences, she recalled being inspired by artists like Willie Nelson, whose poignant lyrics instilled in her a desire to experience the highs and lows of love. This passion for connection through music is evident in her latest album, which delves into themes of yearning, desire, and the excitement of new romance.
The collaborative dynamic between Jepsen and her husband, whose real name is Cole Marsden Greif-Neill, has also proven to be a source of creative synergy. The couple’s relationship began with a strong friendship, and despite Jepsen’s initial reservations about dating a producer, they ultimately decided to embrace their feelings. “I’m really glad I landed with an artist as a partner; I can’t imagine anybody else getting it,” she said, highlighting the unique understanding they have of each other’s creative processes.
Jepsen experienced another new chapter this past March when she and M.G.N. welcomed their son Ilya. The Canadian singer revealed her delight in becoming a mother and noted that her son has already been an integral part of her music-making journey. “This poor child has heard so many mixes [of my songs],” she jested, showcasing her light-hearted approach to motherhood.
In the coming year, Jepsen will embark on yet another exciting chapter in her life, as she prepares to tour with a toddler in tow. “It’s what I lay awake at night thinking about,” she shared. Planning for the demands of both a touring schedule and a young child poses its challenges, but Jepsen appears ready to embrace the adventure. “We’re so ready for our lives to change and to make him the biggest part of all of the adventures,” she said. Although she acknowledges that her son may not remember the experience, she is looking forward to capturing cherished moments along the way.
For further insights into Carly Rae Jepsen’s world, her interview appears in the latest issue of *PEOPLE*, available on newsstands nationwide this Friday. As she navigates motherhood, marriage, and her continuing evolution as an artist, Jepsen remains a prominent figure in the pop music landscape, inspiring fans with her relatable and heartfelt approach to life and creativity.