Music: JORDY Releases His 4th Album “IN RETROSPECT”
Photos by Dante Velasquez Jr.
Words by Chrissy Wang
Some artists write songs. Others create moments that become part of our own stories. With the release of his fourth studio album, In Retrospect, JORDY does both.
Over the past several years, JORDY has emerged as one of pop's most compelling storytellers—not because he chases perfection, but because he embraces honesty. His music has always thrived in the space where vulnerability meets irresistible pop, transforming heartbreak, self-discovery, and life's beautifully messy moments into songs that invite listeners to laugh, cry, dance, and heal all at once.
Released today, In Retrospect marks JORDY's most personal and fully realized work to date. What began as an album about heartbreak evolved into something far greater: an exploration of growth, resilience, and the realization that every experience—even the painful ones—helps shape the person we're becoming. Blending nostalgic pop influences with polished production and fearless lyricism, the record captures an artist who has found confidence not by forgetting his past, but by embracing it.
That fearless authenticity has become JORDY's signature. Whether he's headlining Pride celebrations, captivating audiences around the world, or connecting with millions through music that never shies away from emotion, he continues to prove that being unapologetically yourself is the greatest creative statement an artist can make. His songs don't simply entertain—they create space for people to feel seen, understood, and celebrated.
As GR8T Magazine welcomes JORDY to our GR8T family, we celebrate an artist who continues to redefine modern pop through authenticity, emotion, and connection. In this exclusive conversation, JORDY reflects on the making of In Retrospect, the lessons hidden within its songs, and why looking back isn't about living in the past—it's about finding the strength to move forward. Honest, thoughtful, and unmistakably himself, JORDY reminds us that sometimes our greatest growth begins when we stop trying to be anyone else and simply embrace who we've always been.
Your new single "SICK!" explores the tension between stability and the "chaos" of infatuation. What inspired you to lean into that specific feeling for this track?
I spent a long time in a toxic relationship, and it really changed the way I viewed love and what I thought I deserved. There’s that saying, “We accept the love we think we deserve,” and for a while, I genuinely believed I didn’t deserve someone who was patient, kind, and all the qualities I actually wanted in a partner. It’s not the healthiest mindset, and it’s something I’ve had to actively work through, but it sparked a really interesting idea for a song. The concept of being so used to chaos that healthy love almost feels uncomfortable felt both relatable and fun to explore, so we decided to chase that feeling and build the song around it
“This record really captures my journey from my twenties into my thirties - a period of realizing that the only person who can truly make me feel whole is myself”
You’ve mentioned that "SICK!" was inspired by the nostalgic pop energy of bands like The 1975 and the Jonas Brothers. How did those influences shape the production of this song compared to your previous work?
I really wanted to reconnect with my roots, which are grounded in those nostalgic pop-rock sounds. I’ve always sprinkled elements of that style throughout every album I’ve released, but this time I wanted to fully commit to it. My live shows have naturally evolved in a more rock-oriented direction, and after my last tour, I knew I wanted the next record to reflect that energy. I’m so glad I followed that instinct. At the same time, it was important that the music still felt uniquely mine, and I think you can really hear that balance of influence and individuality throughout this project.
Your newly released album is titled In Retrospect. Looking back at your journey from "Just Friends" to your fourth album, what is the biggest lesson you’ve learned about yourself as an artist?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that I don’t need a boyfriend to be happy. When I wrote “Just Friends,” I was longing for someone who could validate me and make me feel loved. Looking back, I can see how much of my self-worth I was placing in the hands of other people.
This record really captures my journey from my twenties into my thirties - a period of realizing that the only person who can truly make me feel whole is myself. That’s been an incredibly empowering lesson, both personally and creatively. As an artist, it felt important to reflect that growth throughout the album. At its core, In Retrospect is about recognizing when relationships no longer serve you, choosing yourself, and finding those missing pieces within rather than searching for them in someone else. Of course there are bumps in the road, but all we can do is our best.
How does the songwriting process for In Retrospect differ from your previous LPs like BOY and SEX WITH MYSELF?
Honestly not so different! Even though the songs have different sonic and lyrical elements, my process has remained pretty much the same. I mostly work with my very close friends. A lot of my songs across my entire discography came from conversations with the people I love the most. Whether they’re fun ones, sad ones, happy ones, hopeful ones.
You’re headlining several major Pride events this summer, including Columbus and Chicago. What does it mean to you to be a prominent voice for the LGBTQ+ community during Pride month?
For me, Pride is everyday. I am proud to be an openly gay artist and I feel proud to sing loudly for people that need it. It’s something I never take for granted. In a world of streaming and viral moments, my why has always remained the same. I don’t do this for fame, I do it to help people feel less alone.
You recently made your UK festival debut at Mighty Hoopla. How does the energy of a festival crowd compare to your more intimate headline shows?
Festivals are so fun for different reasons. I love having a gigantic stage to play with. I love the outdoor vibe, but I also love a more intimate show where I can connect with fans easier! They both have their highlights. I would love to return to the UK as soon as possible. It’s so cool playing a show across the world where people are singing your lyrics back to you. It reminds me of how far the music has traveled.
"DUMB" was a carefree high, while "SICK!" shifts into a different kind of emotional chaos. How do these two singles set the tone for the rest of the album?
I think that’s always been my vibe musically. Moments of pure fun and liberation, other moments of internal conflict and dialogue. Both represent what it means to be human and the record to me feels very very human.
You have a very dedicated social media following of over 1 million fans. How does that direct connection with your audience influence the stories you choose to tell in your music?
I absolutely make music for my fans, but when I’m writing, I’m usually focused on what I need to hear at that moment. My belief has always been that if I’m feeling something deeply enough to write about it, there’s probably someone else out there who needs to hear it too.
The stories I choose to tell are often the ones I need to get off my chest. Writing is a form of catharsis for me. It helps me process what I’m going through and feel a little less alone. Over the years, I’ve learned that the more honest and specific I am, the more people connect with it. If a song resonates that strongly with me, I trust that it’s something my fans are meant to hear as well.
In Retrospect is described as a "reintroduction" of your artistry. What is one thing you hope new listeners take away from this specific era?
I just want to keep providing them songs that they can play whenever they seek connection. There’s a song for every feeling. So hopefully, when they listen to it all, they’ll feel completely heard and understood.
Which track on the new album was the most difficult or emotional for you to write, and why?
Probably “I Still Do”. I feel so insecure sometimes about being a more anxiously attached person. Someone that needs validation from others, but I think I represent a lot of people who feel that way. So even though it’s scary to share, I feel excited to see what the fans think about it.
You’ve had some incredible TV moments on The Kelly Clarkson Show and TODAY. Is there a particular "bucket list" venue or platform you’re still dreaming of reaching?
Probably Red Rocks. It’s always been a dream to play there. Who knows what the future holds!
With the release of the new album, what can fans expect from the live "immersive experiences" and visuals you’ve been planning for this release?
I’m excited to translate these songs to the stage. They feel the most organic in comparison to my other albums. The visuals too have a nostalgic and punk quality that I feel really excited about too. I just really hope they love the record. GR8T