From auditioning for X Factor thrice to being part of one of the biggest girl groups in the world, Little Mix, Jade Thirwall (JADE) has finally released her debut solo album. “THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY!” is a 14-track pop album full of fun songs, and a beautifully campy visual album!
In the visuals we follow multiple versions of the beautifully talented Jade as a pop star, movie actress, and a supernatural diva where she experiences heartbreak, depression, obsession, and the drama associated with eccentric fame. The visuals are gorgeous, campy and energetic even for the sadder songs. Surprisingly for a pop album there were no features, but that does not negatively impact the album; it allows Jade the space to be as creative as she wants to be.
On the Billboard Pop Shop podcast she said “I didn’t want it to be a super cohesive or conceptualised album, because the truth is that I was experimenting for this and trying different sounds, figuring out who I am. So, I wanted the album to literally sound like that.”
I was experimenting for this and trying different sounds, figuring out who I am. I wanted the album to literally sound like that.
This is reflected in the music by “Midnight Cowboy,” which blends ethereal vocals with an industrial beat and talk singing accompanied by a campy intro and outro from the iconic Ncuti Gatwa. Jade’s experimental approach to this album provides an enjoyable listening experience with songs for everyone like “Glitch,” which is heavily influenced by contemporary R&B with a trap inspired beat. “Fantasy” embodies many disco elements like slick guitars and accompanying synths, as well as playful lyrics.
A surprising standout from this album is “Before You Break My Heart,” which samples “Stop! in the Name of Love” by the Supremes. JADE told the Sun she was able to get permission for the sample in exchange for all royalties from the song.
From listening to this exciting album and enjoying the visuals, I cannot wait to see what more Jade has to offer. She has demonstrated with this release that she has what it takes to be one of the main pop girls, with a deep love for the genre and a willingness to experiment with her sound and go all out in her music videos. Hopefully she will announce some tour dates soon!
