Slovak singer Adéla's partner Jackson Shanks: a producer with star credentials
Adéla Jergová, whose hit 'Ain't In LA' has become a summer anthem, has been dating music producer Jackson Shanks for about a year. Shanks has worked with artists like Selena Gomez and Le Sserafim, and was mentored by Blake Slatkin. Jergová recently became the first Slovak artist to enter the Billboard Hot 100, with the song ranking No. 61.
Jackson Shanks' production résumé includes work with Selena Gomez and the K-pop group Le Sserafim, placing him firmly within the pop mainstream. His professional development was shaped under the mentorship of Blake Slatkin, a producer and songwriter whose credits span collaborations with Justin Bieber, The Kid Laroi, and SZA, giving Shanks access to a high-level industry network.
Adéla's breakthrough single was sparked by a personal moment: a visit to Slovakia and a photograph of her mother at age 18, posed before a wall of smuggled pop culture posters. The song's message of hometown pride has fueled a viral social media trend in which fans worldwide name their own cities, amplifying its reach. At 22, she has made history as the first Slovak artist to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, with the track sitting at No. 61.
This story could signal a shift in how European pop music from smaller markets reaches global audiences, potentially inspiring other artists from non-traditional music hubs to pursue international careers. The viral nature of the song's message may also reinforce a cultural counter-narrative to LA-centric success, resonating with listeners who feel overlooked by mainstream industry focus. Additionally, the couple's combined industry access could shape future collaborations, though the broader impact remains dependent on sustained chart performance and audience engagement.