JesseMelancholy’s latest single, “We Can Change the World If We Try,” released on May 30, 2024, is a haunting and evocative track that delves deep into the emotional labyrinth of wasted youth and the relentless quest for self-acceptance. As the second single from his upcoming album, “Does the Skin I Wear Define Me,” this hyperpop gem stands as a testament to Jesse’s raw lyrical prowess and innovative soundscapes.
The song opens with a soft, introspective melody that gradually builds, pulling the listener into JesseMelancholy’s introspective world. His lyrics capture a poignant sense of loss and longing: “lost a part of me, I don’t know where I placed it / and I don’t want to erase it.” These lines immediately set the tone for a journey through the corridors of past mistakes and missed opportunities, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the weight of regret.
JesseMelancholy’s vocals are both tender and defiant, embodying the inner turmoil of a young person grappling with identity and purpose. The refrain, “I want to be who the f*** I want to be,” repeated with increasing intensity, becomes a mantra of self-determination and defiance against societal expectations. This raw expression of emotion is what makes “We Can Change the World If We Try” so compelling—it’s a candid look at the struggles of youth, delivered with an authenticity that is both relatable and deeply moving.
The production, helmed by Jesse himself, showcases his talent for blending genres. The track’s hyperpop foundation is enriched with elements of indie rock, creating a sound that is both experimental and accessible. The use of layered instrumentation and electronic effects adds to the song’s haunting atmosphere, culminating in an explosive crescendo that mirrors the emotional highs and lows of JesseMelancholy’s lyrical narrative.
Lyrically, the song navigates the frustrations of modern youth culture, touching on themes of escapism, disillusionment, and the search for meaning. Lines like “skipping high-school to ride a dirty bus / you wanna skip town? oh that’s crazy” paint a vivid picture of rebellion and the desire to break free from the constraints of conventional life. JesseMelancholy’s reflection on wasted time and lost youth is both a personal lament and a universal cry for change.
As the song progresses, Jesse’s voice becomes a vessel for his innermost thoughts and fears. He sings about the struggle to find a place in the world, carrying the “weight of the world” and battling the urge to conform. The track’s final moments are particularly powerful, with JesseMelancholy’s repeating, “I want to be like you,” juxtaposed against his earlier defiance. This duality captures the essence of the song—an acknowledgment of the influence of others and the simultaneous desire to forge one’s own path.
