It’s always great to hear about our fellow Gainesvillians going places, which is why I’m so excited about Margeaux Jordan’s new album. This former UF Dazzler is taking on a new challenge with the release of her new pop-inspired material. One song from the album has already been released and two more are following shortly.
Jordan graduated from UF in May of 2013 and started her career in the girl group the Velvet Angels. The band was signed by Mercury Island/ Def Jam, but Margeaux recently chose to become a solo artist and produce her music independently.
When I spoke with her, I asked her what prompted such a difficult decision.
“Being signed to Island/Def Jam was an amazing learning experience,” she said. “Essentially, they were well-connected investors with an unbelievable rolodex. Working with producers like Rodney Jerkins, JR Rotem and Tricky and The Dream was a quick phone call away.”
“However, in a girl group so young, we didn’t have much creative control. We were afraid to ask for it, really,” she said. “As an independent artist, I’m in control of my direction. I’m producing music and singing lyrics that came from my heart and that I believe in. However, making it to the caliber I envision takes a substantial amount of funding and connections. Biggest thing is, I believe in myself, I know where my heart is, and the reason I’m doing it is to make people happy as well as myself. I’ll let my music and performance do the talking.”
Via: Margeaux Jordan
When asked about the challenges of this bold decision, Jordan said the production of her EP and album was “an incredible learning experience.”
“I’ve been able to use my knowledge from Def Jam and UF, as well as my work experience in PR firms and video production companies to put together my entire package.”
“Reality is, in order to pursue music, on top of the creative talent and work ethic, you need flexibility and money. Shortly after I graduated I started Geaux Getter, a public relations company, so I could make my own schedule and work anywhere with Internet connection. I did everything: from build my website and create marketing materials, to video editing and producing all of my music videos, like sets and costumes to casting and beyond. On top of all that, I write my lyrics and melodies, and need to rehearse and keep creating.”
Margeaux’s musical style is mainstream in the best sense of the word. It embodies many of the conventions of modern pop/dance music, while making a valuable contribution to the pop genre. She incorporates many different styles, though her main sound is “pop/dance music with catchy melodies, meaningful lyrics… and music that incorporates a merge of raw instruments and synthetic sounds.”
Via: Google+
Jordan is the perfect ambassador for the kind of catchy music that is ideal for clubs and workouts.
Her debut single, “Let Love In,” is an upbeat pop/dance track with a positive message. After about 20 seconds of the song, I found myself tapping my foot and shaking my head in front of my computer screen. The lyrics are direct and approachable, and send a strong message about opening yourself up to love again, an ageless theme of pop music. In it, she showcases her powerful voice and her talent for song writing in this dynamic single.
I also had the privilege of previewing two more tracks from the album, “Girls Night Out” and “Rather Be Dreaming.”
“Girls Night Out” is the ideal song to dance to when getting ready with your girls for a night of Midtown fun. The song is light-hearted and fun with a dance beat, killer vocals and entertaining lyrics that every girl can relate to. The song is purely feel-good, while maintaining a catchy tune. The melody is interspersed with speech, which keeps the track engaging. This track demonstrates that Jordan is capable of both serious and more carefree songs, an important quality in the pop genre.
“Rather Be Dreaming” is more soulful and slower than “Girls Night Out.” In it, Jordan demonstrates her capacity for a wide range of emotions, while maintaining dance vibes and a forward-moving beat. The song talks about the false expectations of relationships, and how it’s easy to imagine yourself in a fairy tale, even when the reality isn’t always ideal.
The lyrics are relatable, and the general minor tonality of the song helps to emphasize the regret and longing expressed in the powerful vocals. This song showcases Margeaux’s tasteful vibrato, which is not overbearing, but adds expression and color to her music.
Aside from finishing her album, Jordan is working on music videos. She has also covered various songs, which are featured on YouTube, such as “Stay with Me” by Sam Smith and “Titanium” by David Guetta, featuring Sia Furler.
As if she didn’t already have enough on her plate, Jordan is also working on a film called “Booted” in which she plays a leading role.
You can learn more about her by checking her out on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Keep an eye out for this songbird in 2015.
Featured photo courtesy of: Margeaux Jordan
