On “Wikipedia,” Jean Deaux sets out to prove there’s more to a book than its cover, or in this case, more to a person’s truth than the information that’s immediately available.
“‘Wikipedia’ is saying this: People are going to try and tell you who you are every step of the way, they’ll even knock you down to convince you,” states the young Chicago singer. “But you get stronger every time you get up on your feet and continue walking in your own truth.” Her vocals can range from a soothing fraspy lure to hitting hyphenated high notes, sometimes weaving in a few bars of calmly-n-coolly delivered raps as if she’s conversing with the listeners.
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“Wikipedia” by Jean Deaux is a captivating track that defies easy categorization, blending hip-hop, R&B, and neo-soul elements to create a unique sonic experience. The song revolves around the concept of identity and perception, with Jean Deaux’s thought-provoking lyrics exploring themes of knowledge, reputation, and the complexity of human relationships.
The production is sleek and atmospheric, featuring a hypnotic beat with a smooth, laid-back groove. This creates a dreamy backdrop that complements Jean Deaux’s distinctive vocal delivery. Her voice is at once soothing and assertive, flowing effortlessly through each verse with a mix of melodic singing and rhythmic rapping.
The song’s title, “Wikipedia,” serves as a metaphor for the way people construct narratives about themselves and others. Jean Deaux uses the metaphor to question the reliability of these narratives, challenging listeners to consider the layers and contradictions inherent in personal identity. The lyrics are sharp and introspective, inviting listeners to think critically about the stories they tell and hear.
Throughout the track, Jean Deaux’s artistry shines, with intricate wordplay and a captivating presence that holds the listener’s attention. The song has a cool, contemplative vibe that encourages repeated listens to fully appreciate its nuanced message and innovative musical approach. Overall, “Wikipedia” is a compelling exploration of the intersection between perception and reality, wrapped in a smooth and soulful package.
“My creative process in writing music depends on my mood,” Jean Deaux shares. “If I feel I have a lot of things bottled up they’ll spill out in any convenient melody I can find in a song. ‘Wikipedia’ was like that. When I got the beat from ROM, I wrote the song on paper in like less than 10 minutes. Smino recorded me, and that was it. I spent my time after tour touching it up, the people that saw me perform it really connected with it and they were ready to have it.”
This past Spring, Jean Deaux toured North America in support of St. Louis rapper-singer Smino. In addition to featuring on a the closing track from his acclaimed Blkswn album, Jean Deaux directed and starred in Smino’s Bonnie & Clyde-themed “Anita” video; while music is at the forefront of her artistry, she’s continued to work behind the camera as a director, writing treatments for friends. “Wikipedia” is Jean Deaux’s first solo release of 2017, and is set to be a single from a forthcoming EP, which she’s currently continuing to work on and aiming to release before year’s end.
@ThatsJeanDeaux
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