Jackiem Joyner (Self Titled) – 2010

Jackiem Joyner | Self-Titled Album
by Susan Mutharia

I have often wondered why many artist’ first album is self titled. Is it because they are formally introducing themselves to the world? Is it an industry standard or is it an attempt to strip down the layers that define who they are?

Jackiem Joyner did not conform to the norm. His first album was titled Baby Soul, his second album Lil’ Man Soul and now his third and new album is self-titled Jackiem Joyner. Explaining the title, Jackiem stated, “My first two albums were titled after my nicknames, but now it’s just me -front and center – for the entire world to see, which is why I decided to go with a self-titled album.”

I see it as the divine and appointed time for him to release a self-titled album because an unexpected event recently happened in his life. Jackiem reunited with his father and two older sisters whom he had not seen for twenty-four years. The sentiments of connecting with the missing chips in the puzzle of his life can be felt through the album beginning with the first song The Reunion.

The Reunion has an upbeat tempo and is a true reflection of what Jackiem has described as the happiest time of his life. The mood flows into the song Back Together Again and once again without words, the artist draws us into the warmth of his nest.

One thing I am always looking forward to in Jackiem’s album is to hear his rendition and arrangement of great songs that we know. I am still battling with my top pick in this album. Perhaps you can help me decide when you listen. Is it his recording of Michael Jackson’s Off The Wall, the smooth sax in the Aerosmith’s ballad I Don’t Want To Miss a Thing or is it If This Isn’t Love?

All ten tracks in this album are great. While each track triggers a different mood and emotion, they all tie us back to the ‘soul man’ – Jackiem Joyner.

Susan Mutharia
The Urban Music Scene