Jordan Hawkins kicks off 2025 with "Emotions," a bold new single that explores heartbreak, numbness, and the search for empathy. Known for his genre-blurring mix of soul, rock, and R&B, Hawkins channels raw emotion through searing guitar riffs and dynamic vocals, crafting a track that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. The accompanying visualizer further amplifies the song’s introspective nature, offering a dreamlike, cinematic reflection of emotional detachment and longing. As Hawkins continues to push musical boundaries, "Emotions" sets the stage for what promises to be his most transformative year yet. In this exclusive interview, he shares the inspiration behind "Emotions," his creative process, and how his relationship with music continues to evolve.
“Emotions” is described as an “explosion of expression.” Can you take us through the moment or experience that sparked the song’s creation?
"Emotions" took multiple sessions to complete. The music and production were the explosion that my friends and I created during a late night at Rex Kudo’s Palisades studio. Piece by piece, we built the instrumentation to create this psychedelic and electric symphony. When I found the guitar line that the lyrics and melody follow in the hook, we knew we were onto something—but the lyrics didn’t come together until almost two years later when I revisited the idea.
The track explores betrayal, numbness, and the search for empathy. How did you channel these emotions into your songwriting and production?
At the time I wrote "Emotions," I was reflecting on a chaotic relationship. One night, after an argument, I left her place and headed back to the studio. I realized I just didn’t care anymore—I had literally lost my emotions. That feeling of detachment, of being so overwhelmed that you shut down, is what I wanted to capture in the song.
What was your vision for the visualizer, and how does it amplify the song’s message?
The "Emotions" visualizer is part of a larger cinematic piece that weaves together the story of 4LOSS. This particular segment takes place during a dream, reflecting my experiences in a surreal, psychedelic way. I wanted it to have a cinematic feel, emphasizing the inner turmoil that comes with losing yourself in a relationship.
In the video, I try to remove myself from the situation by submerging in water, only to be pulled back out by the very person I was trying to escape. It symbolizes that push-and-pull dynamic of love, where even when you want to detach, something keeps drawing you back in.
Your music blends soul, rock, and R&B. Can you talk about your musical influences and how they’ve shaped your sound?
Being a guitarist exposed me to so many influences as I taught myself through YouTube videos. I started wanting to shred like Kirk Hammett but then gravitated toward artists like John Mayer and Jimi Hendrix, who blended technical skill with songwriting. That led me to explore blues, and over time, I became a huge fan of R&B.
My parents’ radio and CD collection also played a big role in shaping my taste. When I started developing my own sound, I admired Prince for his ability to fuse different genres into something uniquely his own. That’s what I aim to do with my music—bridge my influences into something fresh and authentic.
You started with classical guitar and moved into rock and R&B. How has your relationship with the guitar evolved over the years?
My relationship with the guitar has been a constant journey of learning. I’m always trying to pick up new techniques, whether it’s chord progressions, scales, or something cool I saw someone play on Instagram. Playing guitar keeps my songwriting and production fresh. I get bored easily, so I’m always experimenting to make something my own.
“Emotions” kicks off 2025—what are three words you’d use to describe how you feel about this year?
It’s my time.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
I’d love to collaborate with Beyoncé. She’s always pushing the boundaries of music, constantly evolving and experimenting. Her essence is soul, and she transcends all genres and limitations. I think we could create something really special.
What’s one message you hope listeners take away from “Emotions”?
It’s okay to feel vulnerable. It’s okay to feel hurt. It’s okay to self-reflect. "Emotions" is about accepting those moments and letting yourself feel them fully.
With Emotions, Jordan Hawkins sets the tone for a year of fearless storytelling and sonic experimentation. As he gears up for new projects and live performances, he continues to carve out his space as one of music’s most compelling genre-defying artists. Listen to Emotions below.
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