Jacob released his first solo EP, “J” on June 10, This release consisted of seven tracks, including two collaborations, with the tracks carrying a nostalgic feel. The release marks a new chapter for Jacob, as before the release, he would publish unreleased tracks on platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube.
Inspired by Ed Sheeran, Keshi, HAIM, and Men I Trust, he has now created an album blending inspiration with his own sound. Jacob was heavily involved with the songwriting and composition created alongside many of his friends and collaborators, making this release special, and wanting others to listen to his music with comfort.
How does it feel going from having independent releases on YouTube and SoundCloud to now having your first solo album released?
“It is a blessing to be able to put out my music officially! I uploaded those songs on soundcloud and youtube in hopes of releasing an album one day! Now that I have its very surreal haha!”
With the album out, how do you hope fans interpret it? Many fans are describing this album as the perfect music for a mellow summer, but what song has lately been your summer song?
“I hope fans can listen to it with ease, and also interpret it in ways that help them relate to it! I never really had songs for certain moods or seasons, but I’ll choose my album this time!!”
Were there any worries or challenges while creating the album that you overcame?
“My biggest challenge was time because everything was very last minute. I’d say it was a relatively tight schedule, but the people around me really pushed through and allowed me to put out the album on time!”
The title track, “Slow Dancing,” is about loving someone steadily, with no rush in sight. This song gives the listener comfort because even though there might be challenges along the way, you’ll always have someone who is by your side.
“Slow Dancing” has received so much love from fans for the vibe it brings and the guitar solo, but what was your favorite part of making this song?
“I think it was writing the lyrics! I always hope it can relate to even just one person listening, so whenever I write lyrics I tend to have a fun time!”
“Off The Record” is the intro track off the EP, serving as a confession track in a way, with lyrics like, “I promise that this time/ That you found the one for life.” It describes the honest happiness of loving someone and wanting that to last.
What is your favorite track from the album or one you’d want to highlight for fans?
“Other than Slow Dancing, I really like Off the Record nowadays and hope it reaches more people!”
With “J,” there are two collaborations on the EP, the first being “Back & Forth,” featuring SUNWOO. The song tells the story of the “back and forth” when making the right decisions for a relationship. At the end of the song, it brings a sense of closure as you let your guard down and open up about your next move. Both Sunwoo and Jacob participated in the creation of the song, creating a dynamic in the song with Jacob’s emotional singing and Sunwoo’s rap breaking the overthinking cycle.
The second collaboration track, “Promise,” features Wonderframe, who is a well-known Thai singer, rapper, songwriter, and actress. “Promise” is about the promises made during a long-distance relationship. Letting your loved one know that they will be “right there by your side” even when apart. Both artists’ styles complement each other’s strengths, combining sweet and rhythmic styles.
How did you choose which songs you wanted to collaborate on, and with whom? Is there anyone you’d like to collaborate with next?
“When I started planning, I already had in my head that a member had to be on it!! So when I was making back and forth I realized it would be the ideal song to have Sunwoo rap on it! For Promise, I always wanted someone to feature on it since like 2 years back, so we made it happen for this album! It would be cool if I could feature for somebody else this time!”
“Misunderstood” is the next track on the album, describing the miscommunications in a relationship, wanting to make things right again, and be understood. “Young & Confused” is about the chaos and emotions of being young, figuring things out, and trying to lean on someone. The final track, “Stars in the Sky,” gives listeners a hopeful message about going back to the person you’d always run back to. The lyrics “I wish the stars in the sky/Would lead me to you somehow” are seen as a map that would lead you back to the one you long for.
What goals do you have for yourself now? And what can fans expect in this new chapter for you?
“My goal now is to take this album and perform for the fans! I will make sure to achieve this goal asap (so like really soon!)”
What advice would you give to those wanting to pursue music?
“I would say to find the right people to be with you through your journey and also take your time finding your colour!! Once that colour is there and you can make it yours, I feel like it will really help out! I am also on that journey currently!!”
Jacob’s release marks the beginning of a new chapter in his artistic journey. Through heartfelt messages and deeply relatable themes, he forges genuine connections with his fans — offering comfort and a sense of shared experience. Across these seven tracks, listeners are invited into a deeper, more personal side of his music, building anticipation for what’s still to come.
“J” is out now on all streaming platforms. https://jacob.lnk.to/JACOB-j-EP
