BriJolie “Truth Is” & More (Listen)

BriJolie is a singer who refuses to limit her art for anyone (or anything). Aside from using her voice to approach beats with authenticity and realism, BriJolie is a brand, an entertainer even, who dabbles in dance and other creative outlets. In summary, she’s outspoken, charismatic, intellectual, animated, and is undoubtedly full of personality. Sharing stages as a choir member of Kanye Wests’ Sunday Service Choir, and recording albums with him as well, Bri has made a name for herself in the music industry. More recently, BriJolie was featured in two songs off of Ye’s JESUS IS KING. 

BriJolie was born in Dallas, Texas. At six-years-old, BriJolie was exposed to many hobbies but gravitated more towards singing and dancing, giving thanks to her mother for the support. “She embedded music in me. She saw it,” BriJolie adds. ‘I have sung in different capacities throughout my lifetime.” For years, she was a student of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, where she trained under Ms. Allen in studies from Musical Theater to African Dance. Fast forward, and BriJolie majored in Mass Communications in college. Amid attending classes and studying around the clock, BriJolie became a radio host. As time passed, BriJolie had a change of heart, career path wise. Still, she gained a moniker from her intern director (and Instagram account): BriJolie. “Music is my deep passion, so why not make it a career?” she says. 

The message in her music revolves around genuineness and being honest. “I want people to see the real me. I try not to sugarcoat anything,” she said during our interview, “A lot of musicians can lose themselves in the hype.” In life, BriJolie admires her mother because of who she is. Musically, she notes Cardi B as an influence, saying she’s moved by how the femcee has worked her way up. Her top singer’s list includes A-list vocalists like Beyonce, Ariana Grande, and Whitney Houston. 

During the current pandemic, BriJolie has kept busy by honing into her craft and reading. She owns a home studio, so she’s been laying down ideas and working on her upcoming project. BriJolie’s two-part album is said to explore the many sides of her. “It’s an intro of who I am—my sassy side, sad side, and so forth,” she adds. In one sentence, the album shows that versatility is a gift. One song that was most difficult to record for BriJolie was the first song off the EP titled “Stick With It.” This track was the first one she recorded after coming back to reality following her mother passing. In turn, the song also became one of her favorites. A song she recommends to listen to during this challenging time is “Free Your Dreams” by Chantae Cann. 

According to the R&B star, her most recent song, “Truth Is,” was easy to create. Luckily enough, BriJolie was able to work with her best friend, who she admits brings out a different part of her. After he laid the groundwork, the two went to the studio and expanded on it. BriJolie admits to the song being a big jump for her due to its straightforwardness. Yet there are no complaints on her end because that’s how she is. “I figured it was time to show this side off, and what better way than through music?” BriJolie says. “People aren’t used to women talking so freely and still being a diva.” 

BriJolie’s “Truth Is” explores the contentment of a situationship, from a female perspective. Sure, a platonic friendship can blossom into a relationship, but what happens when one person doesn’t reciprocate those feelings? “I want it to be an introduction to one side of who I am,” she says, “This song is a girl anthem. A lot of people are afraid to speak on the dark sides of dating. It’s about putting everything on the table. I hope that this song makes other people or women feel empowered.” 

On her latest track, the singer freely expresses how she really feels towards someone she’s been kicking it with for some time. Instead of weighing in on this topic with a somber soundscape, BriJolie gets straight to the point over a Kaytranada-esque one. Likewise, the beat carries a wobbly R&B bass, claps, and warm electro-synths. Case in point, “Truth Is” becomes a feel-good house jam for those who, suddenly, have to be the bearer of bad news. Some would say this beat represents the care-free spirit one upholds when vibing in the club or a party. 

Between lyrics, BriJolie firstly acknowledges and apologizes for how she’s made this person feel. It seems as if they’ve caught feelings for BriJolie, but at this time, she’d like to remain cool with them. As the song continues, the “Playground” singer breaks down why it wouldn’t work between them, saying, “you don’t bring anything to the table/I asked you to deliver, you ain’t able.” Additionally, BriJolie says the second verse would fit as a personal description if she had to choose one from the whole song. “Some people feel entitled,” she adds. “That guy or that girl may feel like they have a chance, but they aren’t bringing nothing else that’s going to help you grow. I think people get misconstrued about relationships and what is and isn’t acceptable.” Speaking of which, her ideal first date needs to consist of good vibes and food. “I’m not hard to please. I’m a down-to-earth girl.” she continues. 

Following after, BriJolie further details why it won’t work, saying she isn’t into wasting time. She then mentions the possibility of being cuffed in the future. Right now, she’s more focused on other things. Vocally, BriJolie carries her notes with a full-bodied, soothing register. 

For the aspiring artists, she leaves you with this PSA: “Stick with it and make music that feels good to you because there’s always someone out there that can relate to your work. Don’t let the numbers fool you.”  

Listen to “Truth Is” By BriJolie below: