Jenna DeVries Shows True Authenticity Through Music In New Self-Titled LP

Jenna DeVries is a rising star you won't want to miss, often likened to the Chappell Roan of country music. Read on to discover more about this promising artist.

by Gabbi Calvert - Jul 18 2024
Share

Jenna DeVries' self-titled LP, Jenna DeVries, is a luminous display of her artistic evolution, weaving her country beginnings with strands of modern pop, rock, and soul. This album, saturated with raw emotion and vivid storytelling, is a testament to her journey of self-discovery and creative growth.

Known for her fearless and innovative approach to country music, DeVries crafts an album that resonates with authenticity and profound depth, exploring both personal and universal themes with introspective lyrics with a twist.

LISTEN TO THE FULL RECORD BELOW: 

DeVries first captivated national audiences as a Top 24 finalist on American Idol in 2016. Her path to self-discovery and musical triumph has been marked by significant challenges. Coming out in 2019, DeVries faced a backlash from her family and community – a profoundly transformative experience that has fueled her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and deeply influenced her music. Her personal experience caused her to leave her old life behind and start living for herself. This self-titled LP is not merely a collection of songs but a significant milestone, encapsulating four years of tireless dedication and personal growth.

"It just felt right for my first album to be self-titled. I've been writing and working on these songs for the past four years, and I feel like this album really tells the story of not only where I started but also everything I have gone through to get to where I am now," DeVries told Fandom Daily. "I feel so proud to put these songs into the world. When people hear this album, I hope they are inspired to live a life that is truly authentic to the person they've always wanted to be. I hope it gives people the bravery to say the things they haven't said, a quiet moment to heal, and the perfect soundtrack for their next great adventure."

DeVries’ artistry and fearlessness make her a standout figure in country music, much like Chappell Roan in her genre. With her bold approach and exceptional talent, DeVries continues to redefine what it means to be a country artist, paving the way for a new generation of musicians.

Her accolades are massive, and her journey of excellence is a consistent one. Her hit single, "Daddy's Little Heart Attack," was spotlighted on CMT's Next Women of Country playlist and was also featured on Wide Open Country's list of new must-hear songs. The song was also supported on social media by The Academy of Country Music. Her popular project "Drunk Girls" ft. country music star Harper Grae further solidified her position in the industry, earning over a million Spotify streams. 

DeVries' duet "Chapel" with iconic queer country artist Adam Mac premiered with The Boot, and topped the charts on CMT’s Music Television channel for two weeks, rubbing shoulders with big names like Keith Urban and Chris Housman. This song, alongside DeVries' 2023 Pride release "Rhinestone Cowgirl," has also been widely celebrated. 

Beyond her personal success, DeVries strongly advocates for the LGBTQ+ community, especially within the country music genre. She launched The Outlaw Collective, a monthly showcase series to uplift other LGBTQ+ artists, which has been featured on Today in Nashville. 

SEE THE TRACK LISTING FOR JENNA DEVRIES BELOW:

  1. "This Town"
  2. "Daddy’s Little Heart Attack"
  3. "Everything You"
  4. "Chapel" (with Adam Mac) 
  5. "Rhinestone Cowgirl" 
  6. "Test Drive"
  7. "Self Made"
  8. "RIP" 
  9. "Back to Me"
  10. "Can’t Go Back (Memphis)"
  11. "Sometimes I Forget"
  12. "The End"

Jenna DeVries was produced by Jen MillerPeter Eddins, and Jenna DeVries.

Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Lady Gaga, Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Nicks, and Florence and The Machine, DeVries' musical influences are as eclectic as her sound. This eclecticism is palpable in her ability to blend genres, creating a sonic landscape that is uniquely her own. 

LET'S BREAK DOWN SOME FAN-FAVORITE TRACKS:

"Sometimes I Forget"

"Sometimes I Forget" is a poignant exploration of love and loss, wrapped in haunting melodies and heartfelt lyrics. The song opens with a reflection on the passage of time and the difficulty of letting go, setting a contemplative tone. Her vocals are tender, yet powerful as she navigates the chorus, where the emotional weight of "memories with nowhere to go" and "cracks in our paint" turning to rust evokes a sense of lingering sorrow.

The vulnerability in her voice is palpable, especially as she admits, "Sometimes I forget I don’t love you anymore." The second verse adds depth, contrasting her lingering pain with the visible happiness of her former lover, highlighting the stark difference in their post-breakup realities. The bridge, "Letting it go, letting it burn, watching you smile, looking at her," captures the painful resignation of moving on. DeVries delivers a raw and relatable portrayal of the complexities of heartache, making "Sometimes I Forget" a standout track that resonates deeply with anyone who has struggled to move past a broken relationship. 

“RIP"

"RIP" stands as one of the album's most haunting tracks, delving into themes of loss and self-reclamation. She penned this song from a place of intense anger and grief, reflecting on her harrowing experiences of coming out and the subsequent abandonment by her community. The music video, replete with powerful imagery and a 19-foot albino Burmese python, adds a chilling visual dimension to the song’s emotional depth. The imagery of Jenna starting in a coffin and journeying through a graveyard to a bonfire symbolizes her powerful journey from entrapment to liberation.

“Rhinestone Cowgirl"

This vibrant track narrates a sapphic love story, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary elements. "Rhinestone Cowgirl" is an anthem of individuality and self-expression. The song’s infectious chorus and dynamic production make it a standout on the album. The accompanying music video, characterized by a dramatic transformation and DIY aesthetics, underscores Jenna's dedication to authenticity and creativity. Described by DeVries as "the ultimate sapphic love story," it celebrates the beauty of love that transcends traditional norms.

DeVries’ eclectic mix of influences allows her to craft songs that resonate on multiple levels, from anthemic tracks to deeply personal ballads. Her genre-fluidity is evident throughout the album, seamlessly transitioning between country, pop, and blues –  reflecting her diverse musical palette. Each track offers a poignant glimpse into her life, infused with authenticity and raw emotion.

Her talent for conveying raw emotion and powerful storytelling is evident throughout the LP, drawing listeners into her world. This album is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates music that challenges conventions and explores the depths of the human experience.

Share

Related Post