Francesca Fuentes

Visionary artist Francesca Fuentes, also known by her childhood nickname Chess, channels her real-life experiences and relationships into organic pop-rock-inspired tracks—effortlessly capturing the exhilarating, romantic, and soul-stirring facets of the human experience with sincerity and finesse. Born and raised by the Jersey shore, she started playing guitar and writing at 12—and began her musical journey at 18 after finding a like-minded musical community at Monmouth University. Her career was gaining momentum and buzz—her debut music video, “Rock With Me,” won Best Film at the 2019 Lovesick Film Festival in Jersey City. However, her trajectory took a sharp turn in 2021 after personal and professional split with producer, Max Wolf, leaving her with an unfinished debut album and a deep creative, spiritual void. Inspired by powerhouse singer-songwriters like Taylor Swift and encouraged by mentor Mike Flannery, Francesca began a series of cathartic projects—emerging with a refined, authentic pop sound. Now 27, she’s diving headfirst into her artistry—fearlessly pushing creative boundaries and baring her soul to the world. With a brand-new versatile, stripped-back album on the horizon, Francesca has a renewed voice—soulful, dedicated, & more vibrant than ever. Her latest MTV Spankin' New featured music video, “I Just Wanna Be Your Lover Again” is her most creative and compelling display of artistry yet—and it’s just a glimpse of what’s to come. -Written by Catherine Garner