If I had to list a few of my favorite new artists Jessie Reyez would be at the top. I remember the day I came across her music video for debut single, “Figures,” while falling into a timeless portal of videos on YouTube. After seeing her piercing eyes in the video’s thumbnail, I was curious and had to find out who this mysterious girl was. She was broken, yet strong and sang every lyric with a sense of vulnerability making me think that I too was a part of the situation she referred to. Seeing another little latina represent her culture and showcase her pain so effortlessly was all I needed to become a member of the Kiddo Club.
Being an avid concert goer, I made it a point to see Jessie perform live for the second time. I previously saw her perform at Noname a few months back in front of a few music industry folks, but it’s always nice to see an artist strip down for their fans. I was excited to see her performance but was also stoked to be at another intimate uncharted venue in Los Angeles. The Masonic Lodge located at Hollywood Forever Cemetary was the perfect venue for Jessie. Making my way into the venue fans waited patiently for the self-proclaimed “loca.” They chanted her name and waited with much anticipation. Jessie kicked off the evening with the first track from her debut EP Kiddo entitled, “Fuck It.” Fans didn’t miss a single lyric, and it surprised Jessie just as much as it surprised me. Little by little I’m started to see how loving the people of Los Angeles can be when it comes to genuine artistry.
Her acoustic rendition of Chance The Rapper’s “Cocoa Butter Kisses,” Schoolboy Q’s “That Part,” and Jay-Z’s classic hit “Give It To Me” solidified just how versatile of an artist she truly is.
Jessie is a crusader for the hopeful looking to make it in an industry that is often polluted by dishonest people. Her single “Gatekeepers” addresses just one of many situations women face when trying to pursue their dreams and are met with misogynistic men looking to take advantage of them. She’s a great songwriter, and it’s only a matter of time before she uplifts the world.
Be sure to follow Jessie Reyez on all social platforms including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
LIVE CLIPS
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