Jordan Ward's 'Backward': A Musical Journey Through Reflection and Growth

Introducing 'Backward'

Jordan Ward, the St. Louis singer-songwriter, is back with his highly anticipated sophomore album, Backward, set to drop on January 30. In an exclusive discussion with Rolling Stone, the artist dives deep into the project's thematic arcs and shares insights about the leading single, “Smoking Potna,” featuring the up-and-coming talent, Sailorr.

The Significance of the Album Title

Ward describes this album not merely as a title but as a lived experience. “I turned 30 this year, and with that comes a lot of reflection,” he shared. “Consequences start hitting harder, and those little mistakes you let slide begin to cost so much. You start to question your choices.” This introspection resonates throughout the album.

Healing and Growth

In a twist, Ward is not just healing emotionally. He's also navigating a physical recovery from an ACL tear, which has him quite literally moving backwards in his rehabilitation process. “I'm walking backwards, reverse engineering my run to heal properly,” he explained. This metaphor extends to his music, where he reflects on personal and artistic growth.

“In these little moments, I confront my fears and my aspirations, both in life and in my art.”

A Journey of Storytelling

With Backward, Ward aims to weave narratives that go beyond surface-level storytelling. His debut album, Forward, impressed critics with its unique exploration of modern R&B, combining optimistic beats with complex themes. He intends to continue this journey, deepening the narratives in his songs.

• Personal reflections on love, loss, and ambition
• Collaborations with evolving artists like Sailorr
• Influences from iconic musicians such as Donny Hathaway and Joni Mitchell

Reuniting with Lido

This album also marks a reunion with former collaborator Lido. Their synergy brings back the lush production qualities that defined Ward's initial success. “Working with Lido again feels like coming home,” Ward said, illustrating the importance of creative partnerships in his evolving artistry.

What's Next?

As we eagerly await the release of Backward, fans can get a taste of what's to come with the single “Smoking Potna.” The song is described as a vibrant showcase of Ward's growth and musical exploration. With every track, he seeks to unveil a fresh perspective and emotional depth.

Final Thoughts

Jordan Ward's journey serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of music. Embracing the ups and downs, he continues to thrive as an artist. Backward promises to engage listeners on multiple levels, combining playful melodies with profound commentary. Stay tuned!