Phone Calls

Jessie Reyez's 'Phone Calls' is a raw and unfiltered exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the struggles of making it in the music industry. The song opens with Reyez addressing trust issues and the emotional scars left by past betrayals. The imagery of 'stab wounds' and 'snake ones' in her past vividly conveys the pain and treachery she has experienced. This sets the stage for a narrative about resilience and the determination to succeed despite the obstacles and naysayers.

Reyez reflects on her journey, highlighting the dismissive attitudes she faced from producers and industry insiders who doubted her potential. The repeated lines about chasing producers and being told she was 'too new for the game' underscore the persistence and self-belief required to break through in a competitive industry. The shift from being ignored to receiving recognition and 'ratings' signifies her rise and the validation of her talent. This transformation is not just professional but also personal, as she distinguishes between those who are genuinely supportive ('real ones') and those who are opportunistic ('dick-riders').

The chorus, with its emphatic 'Please step to the side,' serves as a powerful declaration of self-worth and a call to prioritize those who have been loyal from the beginning. Reyez's insistence that some are 'not ready to ride with me' reinforces the theme of loyalty and the importance of surrounding oneself with true supporters. The song's repetitive structure and rhythmic cadence mirror the relentless nature of her journey, emphasizing the continuous effort and resilience required to achieve her dreams. 'Phone Calls' is a testament to Reyez's tenacity and a reminder of the value of loyalty in the face of adversity.