The first time I heard Figures by Toronto’s Jessie Reyez was when I saw the video and had no idea what to expect. It’s minimal and stripped down with an acoustic guitar and heavy bass to add that extra weight and soul. When Reyez begins belting out about a cheating ex, her raw vocals and striking lyrics are especially heartbreaking as you watch a vulnerable side of her in this simple and intimate video. In a statement to The FADER, Reyez explained:
“I was in Sweden, which was dope, but some shit was going on back home. One day I ended up low key crying on the song. Shy Carter and Preist and the beast were in the room but I wiped the tears quick and just kept going. I’d like to say I felt better after.. I didn’t lol but at least something was made from it. Like getting punched in the stomach but deciding to bake a cake.”
Watch Figures below and look out for Jessie Reyez forthcoming EP.
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