I remember being a nine year old glued to my radio waiting for “Too Little, Too Late” to play on Radio Disney. JoJo was one of the CDs I’d listened to endlessly and choreographed plenty of dance routines. So when I first listened to her latest album Mad Love. after a ten-year music drought from one of my favorite childhood artists, I was beyond stoked. Before I realized it, I was back dancing, singing, and humming along with one of my all time favorites. Although she’s a familiar name from the past, JoJo’s Mad Love. reflects her maturity as an artist as well as human. After battling with her previous record label, the death of her father, a serious breakup, and situating herself as an adult within the music industry, Mad Love. exudes her confidence, strength, and power she gained from those turning points.
“FAB”, “Vibe.”, and “Fuck Apologies.” were instant adds to my weekend party playlist. In regards to “Fuck Apologies” JoJo states,
“As a woman, I find myself apologizing for things that I really don’t need to apologize for, even as simple as when someone bumps into you.” She laughs. “Guess what? I’m not sorry you bumped into me. Overall, though, the song to me is an anthem of empowerment. It’s about being confident and comfortable enough with who you are to live unapologetically.”
JoJo maintains her R&B influence with pop flavor throughout; infusions of electronic influences elevates its fresh appeal. More serious ballads, such as “Music.”, “Mad Love.”, and “I Am.” emphasize her amazing range and capture her strengths not just as a singer, but a songwriter as well. Her voice shines through not only musically, but with her genuine sass and honesty, “I needed it to come from my pen, in a way I would say it,” she says. “I felt like my spirit would die if I didn’t come across with my own point of view. It just poured out of me.” As a child and teen star, JoJo discussed how her identity was not determined by her, but others controlled her music and her presentation. Now, JoJo is back and an unapologetic grown woman. Mad Love. ranges from mellow piano ballads to anthems to belt with your best friends during your carpool to Trader Joe’s and pregames alike.
Connect with JoJo on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and on her website.
Listen to Mad Love. NOW on Spotify.