Janine Confronts Grief and Finds Hope in New Ballad “Make You Proud” and Upcoming Album, PAIN AND PARADISE
A deeply personal and emotionally resonant new single from award-winning artist Janine arrives ahead of her forthcoming album, offering a raw exploration of loss and a testament to enduring love.
Los Angeles-based, New Zealand-born singer, songwriter, and producer Janine has released “Make You Proud,” a poignant R&B ballad that serves as a heartfelt tribute to her late father. The song is a preview of her full-length album, PAIN AND PARADISE, scheduled for release on August 22nd.
A Song Born From Loss
“This is the most personal and painful song I’ve ever written,” Janine shared. She explained that the song emerged in the wake of her father’s unexpected passing in 2021, functioning as a direct communication of her grief. “It’s a letter to him, telling him I’ll do my best to make him proud, take care of Mum like he would have and let him know that I’m proud of him too.”
While centered on the profound experience of grief, Janine emphasizes that “Make You Proud” is ultimately a song about love and honoring the memory of those lost by embracing a life they would celebrate. She hopes the song will resonate with listeners who have experienced similar losses, offering a message of hope and resilience. “I hope listeners who have experienced the loss of a parent, a loved one, or even a version of themselves feel seen in this song. I hope it reminds them that it’s okay to fall apart and start again. That grief is the price of deep love and that love never really leaves.”
Visualizing Grief and Remembrance
The emotional weight of “Make You Proud” is further amplified by its accompanying video, a lovingly crafted compilation of old VHS footage. Janine described the process of gathering and reviewing these childhood memories as both “beautiful and painful,” but ultimately rewarding. “It’s been really nice to see and hear Dad again through the footage,” she said.
According to the artist, this song represents a new level of emotional depth in her work. “Of all the songs I’ve ever made, this one reaches deeper into my heart and pain than any before. It’s been the most challenging and the most beautiful. It means the world to be able to share it with others.”
PAIN AND PARADISE: A Journey Through Complex Emotions
“Make You Proud” follows the release of the single ‘Fit’ and is part of the larger narrative woven throughout PAIN AND PARADISE. The album promises to explore the multifaceted themes of love, grief, healing, and joy – often existing simultaneously.
Janine’s musical style is a compelling blend of Indie R&B, soulful melodies, alternative pop, and intricate soundscapes. Her vocal range, capable of both delicate whispers and powerful belts, has earned her recognition for her ability to evoke a wide spectrum of emotions. She has a rare ability to both break your heart and heal it in the same breath.
A Rising Star with a Dedicated Following
Janine first gained attention under the moniker Janine and The Mixtape, achieving significant success with her EP DARK MIND. The project reached #1 on iTunes New Zealand, #2 on the Billboard Heatseekers Chart, and garnered praise from publications like Complex, VIBE, Billboard, and MTV. Her single “Hold Me” topped the iTunes New Zealand charts and earned a Critics’ Choice nomination at the Aotearoa Music Awards.
She continued her momentum with the release of XXEP, which won Best R&B Album at the Aotearoa Music Awards in 2015. That same year, she opened for the legendary duo Floetry on their US reunion tour.
After a period away from live performance, Janine returned to the stage in 2023 with a sold-out show at LA’s Troubadour, solidifying her connection with a fiercely loyal fanbase. This successful return led to a signing with WME and a triumphant world tour spanning 14 cities across three continents.
You can follow Janine on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Her music is also available on Apple Music and Spotify. PAIN AND PARADISE is poised to be Janine’s most personal and impactful work yet, offering a universal message of hope and healing in the face of loss.
