Pop superstar and Broadway performer Joanna “JoJo” Levesque has opened up about her childhood experiences in a heartfelt conversation with PEOPLE during the 2026 Room to Grow Annual Gala in New York City. On October 20, the singer reflected on the challenges faced by her single mother, Diana Levesque, and expressed her gratitude for the sacrifices made to nurture her dreams.
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Growing up in a modest household outside of Boston, JoJo credits her mother for providing unwavering support while juggling multiple jobs, including as a nanny and house cleaner. “I just want to give credit to my mum for being a single parent and somehow raising me, just making a way out of no way,” said the now 35-year-old artist, showcasing her deep appreciation on the blue carpet of the gala, held at the Ziegfeld Ballroom.
The Room to Grow charity holds special significance for JoJo, who understands firsthand the importance of early support for families in need. This organisation focuses on providing guidance and resources for families with low incomes during the critical first three years of a child’s life. JoJo noted, “My mum knew there were organisations that helped; it’s very possible that something like Room to Grow could have been a part of that in her life.”
Despite their financial struggles, Diana sought to create a nurturing environment for her daughter, fostering JoJo’s love for reading and imagination. “My mum reading to me every single night is one of my best memories,” JoJo reminisced, recalling the trips to the local library where they would choose books together. “That was such a big part of my childhood.”
Now a successful musician and author, JoJo has penned hits such as “Leave (Get Out)” and “Too Little Too Late,” starred in Broadway’s Moulin Rouge!, and released a bestselling memoir titled *Over the Influence*. With her career flourishing, she cherishes the opportunity to give back to her mother.
“It’s the best. It’s so cool,” JoJo said, describing their shared travels. “I’m like, ‘Ma, where do you want to go?’ She said somewhere in the States. I’m like, ‘Let’s go there! How about a dude ranch in Montana?’” JoJo expressed her happiness in being able to offer experiences that her mother couldn’t afford in the past. “I’m fortunate that I can somehow repay her a tiny sliver of what she’s given to me. It means everything.”
The Room to Grow Annual Gala saw various notable figures in attendance, including the organisation’s CEO Akilah B. King, co-chair Ashley Graham, and founding board member Uma Thurman. JoJo took to the stage to perform her beloved classic “Too Little Too Late” and a soulful cover of Etta James’ “At Last,” accompanied by her boyfriend, jazz musician Emmet Cohen, on piano.
Looking ahead, JoJo is gearing up for an exciting milestone. Next month, she will embark on a North American tour marking the 20th anniversary of her second album, *The High Road*, released in 2006. The tour promises to be a celebration of her enduring influence in the music industry, as well as a reflection of her deep-rooted connection to her early life experiences.
As JoJo continues to navigate her artistic journey, her reflections on her past and the unwavering support from her mother remain at the forefront. Both the gala and the upcoming tour serve as a testament to her commitment to her artistry and the values instilled in her during her childhood, underscoring the impact of love and resilience.